News Summary
Rock Hill officials have announced that the Tom S. Gettys Center will not close as planned in August 2025, allowing the York County Arts Council to continue operating there under a month-to-month lease. While this decision provides temporary relief, concerns persist about the future of local arts and the venue’s eventual fate. Artists are experiencing mixed reactions, with some relieved by the reprieve and others uncertain about their future as they consider relocating their studios in response to potential closure.
Rock Hill, SC – In a positive turn for the local arts community, Rock Hill officials have confirmed that the Tom S. Gettys Center will not close as originally planned in August 2025. This decision comes after the city had announced intentions to auction off the former federal courthouse earlier this year, prompting the York County Arts Council to prepare for an evacuation by the end of summer 2025. Instead, the city has opted to pursue an alternative approach, allowing the arts council and its tenants to continue operating under a month-to-month lease that will commence in September 2025.
Despite the temporary relief provided by this postponement of closure, uncertainties remain, as the city has yet to find a buyer for the Gettys Center. Established in the 1930s, this four-story stone building has been a vital space for artistic expression, hosting various events and artists for over a decade. Although the rental agreement for the space is fixed at $1,200 a month, the city’s persistent maintenance issues have ultimately led to its decision to sell.
Under the newly formed lease agreement, the arts council will continue to occupy the Gettys Center until further notice. However, the city has specified that should it decide to end the lease, a two-month advance notice will be provided. As a result, many artists within the community are experiencing mixed reactions. Some are relieved, but others are wary of what the future holds for artistic expression in Rock Hill and whether they have enough time to secure alternative venues or relocate their studios.
Michael Gentry, an established member of the arts scene who has been hosting music events at the Gettys Center for 15 years, expressed concerns regarding the venue’s longevity. Gentry, also the founder of a nonprofit organization named Don’t Sweat It Inc., has plans to proceed with the annual “Don’t Sweat It Festival” from September 17 to 20, 2025, in downtown Rock Hill, underscoring the importance of retaining a venue for live music as local options dwindle.
Several artists, such as J. Michael Simpson, have already started the process of relocating their studios in light of the anticipated closure. This proactive approach reflects a broader concern among artists regarding the future availability of spaces conducive to creativity in Rock Hill. Notably, the spectrum of the local arts scene has been influenced heavily by the Gettys Center, which has served as a unique venue for original bands to perform—something that is currently lacking elsewhere in the city.
In addition to the ongoing changes surrounding the Gettys Center, the local arts community came together on August 1, 2025, for the monthly art celebration known as “First Friday.” This event showcased a variety of local artists, further highlighting the vibrancy and commitment of Rock Hill’s creative population to foster a supportive arts environment despite the city’s evolving landscape.
As Rock Hill navigates this transitional period, community members remain hopeful that a permanent solution will emerge that supports the sustainability of the arts in the area. Until then, the arts council and its residents are bracing themselves for potential changes while attempting to preserve the cultural foundation laid out in the Gettys Center.
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Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
