Bird watching artwork and exhibits were popular at The Arts Garage in Port Clinton during the recent Biggest Week in American Birding in Northwest Ohio. (Photo by D’Arcy Patrick Egan)

The Greater Port Clinton Area Arts Council (GPCAAC) has been creating an arts and cultural center, known as The Arts Garage, or TAG, for artists and art enthusiasts throughout Ottawa County. Over the years, many people have supported the Arts Council, allowing GPCAAC to give scholarships, create public art installations, host community concerts, bring opera on wheels to the schools, host art classes, lectures, artist retrospectives and much more.

Last year, GPCAAC entered into a 50-year agreement with the City of Port Clinton to lease the former city maintenance garage at 317 W. Perry St. and transform it into TAG.

This building has not been utilized or maintained for years. It is in desperate need of love and care, and GPCAAC needs help. The non-profit has launched a campaign to help this building reach its full potential, and to continue to bring to reality the dream of a thriving arts hub for everyone.

GPCAAC is preparing for its first phase of renovations at TAG, which includes new raised floors, a heating system, new doors, and plumbing restrooms. GPCAAC will need to raise $160,000 to bring these upgrades to fruition, and has launched a GoFundMe fund-raiser to help defray costs.

Donors can help by contributing to the GoFundMe campaign Raising the floor – The Arts Garage, at gofund.me/5be00c69.

Stop in and see TAG and all the amazing things that are happening!