Establish a dedicated art center in Columbia

Recent signers:
Eric Cochran and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Columbia's vibrant art community is in dire need of a dedicated art center akin to the beloved Tapps on Main. While the Columbia Museum of Art (CMA) provides an incredible collection and access to world-renowned pieces, it does not fully cater to the needs of our local artists, lacking studios and community spaces that support their growth and creativity.

The closure of Tapps on Main has left a significant void in our community's cultural fabric. It was a place where artists could come together to create, collaborate, and showcase their work. Now, artists in Columbia are struggling to find affordable spaces to bring their visions to life. This is a pressing issue as many available spaces come with hefty prices, inhibiting the potential for artistic expression and the sharing of local culture.

A dedicated art center would address these needs by providing affordable studio spaces, galleries for showcasing art, and workshops that nurture emerging talent. It could become a cornerstone for community events and foster a collaborative environment that allows artists to thrive.

By supporting this initiative, Columbia can continue to celebrate its rich artistic heritage and spark new cultural development. This center would not only benefit artists but also boost tourism, enlivening our community with diverse exhibitions and creative events that attract visitors near and far.

Join us in urging local government and community leaders to fund and establish a dedicated art center in Columbia. Let's work together to revive the vibrant artistic spirit that Tapps on Main once embodied. Sign this petition and help make this vision a reality for our city and its artists.
avatar of the starter
JJ MackeyPetition Starter

112

Recent signers:
Eric Cochran and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Columbia's vibrant art community is in dire need of a dedicated art center akin to the beloved Tapps on Main. While the Columbia Museum of Art (CMA) provides an incredible collection and access to world-renowned pieces, it does not fully cater to the needs of our local artists, lacking studios and community spaces that support their growth and creativity.

The closure of Tapps on Main has left a significant void in our community's cultural fabric. It was a place where artists could come together to create, collaborate, and showcase their work. Now, artists in Columbia are struggling to find affordable spaces to bring their visions to life. This is a pressing issue as many available spaces come with hefty prices, inhibiting the potential for artistic expression and the sharing of local culture.

A dedicated art center would address these needs by providing affordable studio spaces, galleries for showcasing art, and workshops that nurture emerging talent. It could become a cornerstone for community events and foster a collaborative environment that allows artists to thrive.

By supporting this initiative, Columbia can continue to celebrate its rich artistic heritage and spark new cultural development. This center would not only benefit artists but also boost tourism, enlivening our community with diverse exhibitions and creative events that attract visitors near and far.

Join us in urging local government and community leaders to fund and establish a dedicated art center in Columbia. Let's work together to revive the vibrant artistic spirit that Tapps on Main once embodied. Sign this petition and help make this vision a reality for our city and its artists.
avatar of the starter
JJ MackeyPetition Starter

The Decision Makers

Daniel Rickenmann
Columbia City Mayor
Columbia City Council
5 Members
Edward McDowell
Columbia City Council - District 2
Will Brennan
Columbia City Council - District 3
Peter Brown
Columbia City Council - District 4
Christa Williams
Former Columbia City Council - District 1

Supporter Voices

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Petition created on January 14, 2026