Barn Colony Home
Who are the Barn Colony Artists?

We are a not-for-profit organization of practitioners and friends of the arts. Our members are eighteen years of age or older and come from Decatur and neighboring communities (under 18 must be sponsored by a member and approved by the Board).

Do you have to be an artist to join?

No, but you do have to have an interest in the visual arts. Our membership includes beginners, advanced amateurs as well as profesionals.

How did you get the name, "Barn Colony Artists"?

In 1939 local artists formed a group for the purpose of shared learning as well as providing arts education to the community. This group met on the ground floor of the barn/carriage house at the James Millikin home, 125 North Pine Street. The group adopted the name "Barn Colony" and met regularly in the barn for the next 30 years.

Where do you meet and how often?

We meet at the Madden Arts Center (Decatur Area Arts Council), 125 North Water Street, 2nd floor (there is a BCA sign by the elevator), Decatur, each Monday during the fall, winter and spring months. We start the meeting at 7:00 and conclude by 9:00 P.M., usually with a short break around 8:00 P.M.

What do you do at the meetings?

Members or other qualified instructors provide instruction or demonstrate techniques in different media such as watercolor, acrylics, pastel, pencils & charcoal. Other topics including sculpture, photography, art history, perspective & composition are also shared.

Who provides the needed supplies?

All supplies for the sessions are the responsibility of each participant unless it is announced differently. Supply lists will be made available prior to the start of the new session.

Do you ever have art shows?

Throughout the year Barn Colony arranges shows and sales at various local sites. A spring show and competition for members is held annually. At this show entries are judged and critiqued by an independent professional. Ribbons and prizes are awarded in many categories including a NOVICE class for beginners. The highest honor awarded is "Best of Show".

Who pays the instructors?

Funding is through membership dues, donations, income producing activities, and workshop fees.

How much does it cost to be a member?

Annual dues are $60 and entitle you to participate in all Barn Colony events and to serve as an officer.

How can I become a member?

Visit our booth at Arts in Central Park OR come to one of our scheduled sessions or see our MEMBERSHIP PAGE for more information.