KYLE MURPHYStaff Writer

The South Jackson Performing Arts Center has announced it has made the acquisition of the Tullahoma Fine Arts Center.

In a statement to The News, Greg Gressel, Executive Director of South Jackson Performing Arts Center (SJPAC), described the acquisition as an exciting new chapter that will “bring the historic Tullahoma Fine Arts Center (TFAC) under the management of the South Jackson Civic Association, strengthening the shared commitment to serving the arts community of Middle Tennessee.”

While the fine arts center will now operate under the South Jackson umbrella, it will continue as a separate 501(c) (3) organization. TFAC will be guided by the South Jackson Civic Association’s Board of Directors, ensuring both continuity and a unified vision for the future.

“Our goal has always been to promote all arts for all people,” said Greg Gressel, Executive Director of South Jackson Performing Arts Center. “Bringing the Fine Arts Center into the South Jackson family allows us to expand our reach and support a more diverse range of artistic expression throughout our region.”

As for what led to the acquisition, Gressel said SJPAC saw the acquisition as a need to continue the fine arts in Tullahoma.

“We saw a need and we have offered to step-in, take care of that need and to take things over,” he said.

He added the conversations to acquire TFAC started back in November 2024 and the process concluding in April.

With this new structure, Gressel stated both organizations will collaborate to offer more dynamic programming, enhanced community outreach and stronger support for artists across disciplines. Gressel added this partnership represents a step forward for arts access and cultural development in Tullahoma and beyond.

“We ask for your patience and support as we move through the transition process,” Gressel said. “While we are excited about the opportunities this partnership brings, we recognize that there will be many issues to address. Our teams are already hard at work addressing building needs and program development to ensure the Tullahoma Fine Arts Center continues to be a space where creativity thrives.”

In the coming months, residents may notice changes as the work to improve the facilities and expand programming, as well as reestablishing the fine arts center’s social media accounts. These updates, per Gressel, are part of the long-term vision to create an inclusive and inspiring environment for artists to express themselves and patrons to enjoy.

“Stay tuned for more announcements as we roll out new events, community initiatives, and opportunities to get involved,” Gressel said. “We’re looking forward to sharing this journey with you and appreciate your continued support of the Arts in our community.”