ACLC - About Us

History & Organizational Structure

The Arts Council of Lincoln County was established in 1971 as a non-profit advocate for making arts accessible to all of Lincoln County residents. This non-profit organization provides exhibition opportunities for area artists and art education for our youth and adults. Due to gracious individual and corporate benefactors, most exhibits and events are free to the public. Classes and camps are offered for a small fee which covers tuition and materials with scholarships available for those in need. We also partner with other organizations such as Lincoln County Schools, Lincoln Cultural Center and Lincoln County Historical Association to produce community events.

The Arts Council of Lincoln County is staffed by a part-time Executive Director. All other positions are volunteer-based and include dedicated Arts Council volunteers plus our Board of Directors who provide guidance and direction for the Council. The Board consists of community members who commit their time by attending monthly meetings, serving on various committees and lending a helping hand where needed for exhibitions and events.

Our funding is provided several different ways. Individual donations, corporate sponsorships and yearly allotments from the City of Lincolnton, Lincoln County and the Lincoln County School system provide the bulk of our administrative operating funds. We also receive a recurring grant from the Arts Council of North Carolina each year as part of the Grassroots Grant Program which is used in part to fund administrative operating costs. If you would like to be an individual donor, sponsor a "Meet the Artist Reception," or donate to one of our special scholarship funds, please contact the Arts Council.

To ensure proper business ethics and procedures, financial records and books are audited on a yearly basis and are open to public scrutiny upon request.

Meet Our Board of Directors

Shelly Johnston, Executive Director

Arts Council of Lincoln County

Member Since 2007

Shelly has lived in Lincoln County for 15 years, creating wholesale pottery from her home studio for 10 of those years. She holds a BA from Pfieffer University, MA from NC State University, and is currently pursuing a second Masters from Lenior Rhyne College.

Gary Lee, President

Member Since 2002

Owner of Rising Sun Pottery

Serving a total tenure of 7 years with 5 as President of the Board, Gary is a firm believer that the community should be exposed to the arts in as many ways as possible.

Ken Rudisill, Past President

Member Since 1981

As a two-time past president and Vice-President for several terms, Ken is well known for his involvement in visual and performing arts, and is active in organizations such as Lions, YMCA, and NC Symphony.

Bryon Cook, Vice-President

Member Since 2006

Living and loving Lincolnton, Bryon is a local small business owner. With an appreciation and affection for the arts, he fancies himself as a potter.

Lillian Richardson, Treasurer

Member Since 2007

Lillian attended Gaston College and UNCC, and resides in western Lincoln County. She retired as Transportation Director from Lincoln County Schools in 2007.

Cheryl Gantt

Member Since 2007

Pianist with Hebron UMC

Cheryl is originally from Western Lincoln County and returned after living in High Point.

Susan Harris

Member Since 2007

State of North Carolina

Born and raised in Lincoln County, Susan is employed as an Official Court Reporter in Catawba County Superior Court.

Sherry Hoyle

Member Since 2007

Jeff Hicks, Secretary

Member Since 2009

Dixon Free

Member Since 2009

Kathryn Berkowitz

Member Since 2010

A resident of Denver, NC, Kathryn is the owner of Blue Ridge Diva Designs -- Handcrafted Beaded Jewelry where she creates one of a kind jewelry and accessories.