The Artists' Group of Charlestown was founded in 1996 by a group of artists from the area with the vision of promoting the arts. On Terminal Street, ARTeria was created as a shared studio. In December 1996, the AGC hosted its first Open Studios at Terminal Street. In order to make the necessary improvements at ARTeria so it could host more events, a fundraiser was organized. Art in the Park was created by the AGC in the Fall of 1997 to showcase art in a larger outdoor space. The ARTeria was too small to accommodate the AGC's big plans! A milestone campaign, "Savoring the Arts", raised over $20,000 in 2002. The AGC used these funds to build a brand new facility at 523 Medford Street. This former stove factory was built in the 19th century. StoveFactory Studios & Gallery is a three-floored building that will eventually contain 24 artist studios, as well as a gallery of 950 square feet. In 2003, The Artists' Group of Charlestown was incorporated as a non profit organization (501c3). The AGC is a non-profit organization (501c3) that relies on generous donations, grants and the dedication of its members to achieve their mission. This includes promoting high quality cultural programming in the community and displaying the works of artists. Art in the Park, Open Studios and other annual events, such as Art in the Park, have been a staple of the AGC since its inception. AGC sponsored seasonal exhibits, group and solo exhibitions are also regular AGC events. AGC sponsored shows and events will always be open and free to the public. Click here to read the Boston Magazine April 4, 2019, article. The AGC invites individuals and community groups to host events at the StoveFactory Gallery in addition to the annual and seasonally scheduled programming. This can be in the form a rental agreement, which generates income for AGC. StoveFactory Studios and Gallery is a valuable partner with agencies and institutions in our community. For example, the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Peace Gallery and Charlestown Coalition have partnered to bring survivors of substance abuse and violence into the StoveFactory Gallery for a collaborative project. (See WCVB TV Channel 5 Chronicle here and BNN TV Here). AGC has been a part of the Charlestown Chamber of Commerce for many years and works closely with ArtScope Magazine to promote all of their events. AGC continued to provide services to the Charlestown Community despite a difficult pandemic year when many in-person events had to be canceled. The AGC was able to raise over $7,000 during the pandemic, thanks in part to the generosity of AGC members and the Charlestown community. (Click here to read the article published in the Charlestown Patriot-Bridge on September 9, 2020). The AGC also received a City of Boston's Mayor's Office of Arts & Culture, COVID-19 relief grant.