In September 1958, a small group of Bartow artists gathered to work and paint under the tutelage of HENRY de RUES. This group founded the BARTOW ART GUILD in 1959 as a non-profit organization with the purpose of development and exposure of visual and cultural art in the City of Bartow and its environs.
The guild held meetings at various locations over the years, and in 2002, the Community Healthcare Foundation offered a building on the grounds of the old Bartow memorial Hospital as a permanent home for the members.
The building was renovated to accomodate a large working space, an office and a small storage room. Many locals donated their time and expertise to the project, and on December 14, 2002, ribbon cutting ceremonies were held at the new site (pictured below) at 1240 E. Main St.
