It's official--the Arts Council has purchased the building at 77 Lone Peak Drive (formerly Choppers restaurant), with the goal on transforming the space into an arts center. The building acquisition was made possible by an extraordinary lead gift from Big Sky resident and long-time ACBS supporter Don Grasso. Grasso is a passionate philanthropist who believes in paying forward his good fortune by giving back to meaningful causes. “I made this donation to honor my sister-in-law Patty Rhea and her husband Bob, who have inspired me to recognize the power of the arts,” said Grasso. “I hope this gift is transformational for the Big Sky community and inspires others to give generously too.”
The Rheas are Big Sky residents that have made significant contributions to the community for more than twenty years. Patty Rhea is a former curator and past ACBS board member who has been a champion for public art in Big Sky for a decade, spearheading such efforts as the Deborah Butterfield horse sculpture "Winter" located in the Town Center Plaza, and the upcoming Brad Rude sculpture "To the Skyland" to be placed in the Community Park in 2025. Bob Rhea is current board chair of the Moonlight Community Foundation.
"This is an amazing opportunity to revitalize an empty space and bring some more vibrancy into the Town Center," said Brian Hurlbut, ACBS Executive Director. "It has always been the organization's dream to have our own building, and we are truly excited for what the future holds."
We have big plans for the space, and have retained CCY Architects out of Basalt, Colorado, to help us achieve our vision. The attached rendering is just one example of what he hope to do! The Arts Council is planning on hosting an open house at the Christmas Stroll in the Town Center on Saturday, December 14, from 5-8. We'll have live jazz music, small bites and beverages. Please stop by to celebrate with us!
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