Minnetonka Center for the Arts

The Minnetonka Center for the Arts started as a dream. A small group of people in the early 1950s decided to take a summer painting class and see where it might lead. This bold decision, made with enthusiasm, confidence, and a shoestring budget, birthed an institution dedicated to the visual arts. The Minnetonka Center for the Arts continued to thrive. Over the years, they moved into various rented spaces, eventually finding their first permanent home in the former Hill Elementary School in Wayzata. The gymnasium became the main gallery, classrooms were transformed into studios, and an art store was added. The organization further expanded with a painting studio, ceramics studio, and sculpture studio with a metal pouring foundry. But in 1997, an engineering study revealed the building was structurally unstable. The Art Center, however, didn’t shy away from the challenge. They launched a capital campaign to build a new facility. This was an enormous leap of faith, but they raised $6.5 million and dedicated a new building in 2002, marking their 50th anniversary. This new building, designed by James Dayton, transformed the Art Center. It enabled them to dramatically expand their reach. With 30% more space, specialized studios, and a secure, climate-controlled gallery, the Art Center entered a new era of service to the community. Since that dedication, their programs and participation have more than tripled. The Minnetonka Center for the Arts is now a nationally recognized leader in its field. Today, we stand before this testament to the power of passion and commitment to the arts.