Lincoln Clay Arts Center

A nonprofit organization

0% complete

$75,000 Goal

Lincoln Clay Arts Center

Transforming an historic landmark into a vibrant home for the clay arts 

The Lincoln Clay Arts Center (LCAC), in partnership with the City of Lincoln, is transforming Lincoln's historic Carnegie Library into an active, welcoming center for the clay arts. The project will provide artists of every experience level with space to learn, make, exhibit, and connect—while preserving a civic landmark for future generations to enjoy. LCAC is envisioned as a community-serving creative hub, working in partnership with schools, businesses, nonprofits, civic organizations, studio artists, and the public. Its programs will center on accessible instruction, shared creative making spaces, artist development, and exhibits that celebrate clay as both a contemporary art form and an essential part of Lincoln's cultural identity. 

LCAC has followed a deliberate path from concept to construction. Each milestone has strengthened the foundation for the Center’s long-term success:

  • Feasibility Study: Completed by AMS Planning & Research (2025), confirming community demand and financial viability. 
  • Public Investment: The City of Lincoln provided LCAC $275,000 for building upgrades and equipment. Private Contributions: Early supporters have contributed $30,000, demonstrating initial private confidence. 
  • Facility Renovations: Building improvements are now underway in partnership with the City of Lincoln. Community Engagement: LCAC continues to collaborate with local stakeholders, artists, and educators as the Center moves toward opening.

LCAC  is seeking startup funding that will support facility operations, outreach and program development during its critical first three years. During this period, earned revenue from the studios, classes, memberships, events and gallery activity will grow. As earned revenue develops, LCAC will reduce its reliance on startup philanthropy and build toward long-term financial stability. Because the major building improvements have been funded, philanthropic support can focus on the people, programs and operations needed to launch LCAC successfully. To ensure that LCAC opens its doors with a strong operating and program foundation, a $75,000 fundraising goal based on a Business Plan that projects steady revenue growth over the first three-years of operation at which time the Center's core operations will be fully supported from program revenues and subsequent fundraising focused on expanding services to the community.


Giving Activity

Mission

The core mission of the LCAC is to support the local clay arts community with the reactivation of Lincoln’s historic Carnegie Library. LCAC will offer affordable and accessible classes and art exhibits for emerging local and regional artists. With a steadfast emphasis on community engagement and partnerships with local nonprofits, the new art center will provide a welcoming environment for learning, experimentation, creativity, and social connection.

Needs

LCAC is seeking $75,000 in startup funding to allow it to hire the professional staff (Studio Manager and Assistant) and for the building services and supplies required to operate the center. Project development costs that include the renovation of the historic Carnegie Library and the purchase of studio equipment have been funded by the City of Lincoln and private donations. The Business Plan projects breakeven in the third year of operation with future fundraising focused on expanding programs to serve the community.

Equity Statement

At the Lincoln Clay Arts Center (LCAC), diversity, equity, and inclusion guide how we serve our community, build our team, and select our partners. We prioritize elevating diverse voices and creating accessible, equitable programs that serve all residents of the greater Sacramento region. We continuously evaluate our operations and governance to ensure our organization reflects and honors the community we serve. Our goals for the first year of operation include expanding the LCAC Board for broader representation and establishing partnerships with local nonprofits such as Lighthouse Counseling & Family Resource Center to launch a Clay Arts Therapy Program, and with the Western Placer Unified School District to offer special workshops for students.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

Lincoln Clay Arts Center

other names

LCAC

Year Established

2024

Tax id (EIN)

33-1672363

Mission Category

Arts, Culture & Humanities

Operating Budget

$0-$50,000

Organization Need

Funding: Unrestricted

Demographics Served

General population, Seniors, Low-income individuals/families

Local Counties Served

Placer

Address

1851 DUCKHORN LN
LINCOLN, CA 95648

Service areas

Placer, CA, US