On Saturday, March 31, Main Street Macon held a ribbon cutting to celebrate the reopening of Ampersand Guild at its new location, 362 Cherry Street. Located in the lower level of Sterchi Lofts on Cherry Street Plaza, Ampersand Guild offers space for artists to explore and showcase their creativity through a variety of media. Ampersand Guild functions as a collective of creatives enhancing the community through artistic expression and diversity. Ampersand offers studio workspace for workshops and artists collaborations, specialized equipment for unique projects, gallery hall for exhibitions and performances to members and the general public, young and old.
 
“I’m excited that Ampersand has moved downtown in the midst of downtown’s revitalization,” said Daniel Montoute, owner and director of Ampersand Guild. “With support from Knight Foundation, we now have a space that works for our guild members and allows us to offer the programs and exhibitions we’ve been wanting to do.”
 
Daniel Montoute took over the leadership of Ampersand Guild in 2017. Since becoming Ampersand’s owner, Montoute has overseen the relocation of the guild, which received funding from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation to support the growth of artistic excellence and audience engagement for Macon's independent artists.
 
“When I visited the Guild’s original location last year I was struck by its model, which uses the power of art to foster community.  This new site expands on that vision, offering Macon’s artists a central hub to build, connect with residents and highlight their work, while showcasing local stories and talent,” said Victoria Rogers Knight Foundation Vice President for arts.
 
Communities with vibrant arts scenes are proven to be more successful. According to a national study conducted by Americans for the Arts, attendees of arts events spend an average of $24.60 per event, not including the cost of event admission. Ampersand Guild not only cultivates the talent of visual and performance artists, but also offers a robust calendar of events. The creativity inspired by Ampersand Guild directly impacts the local economy.
 
“Ampersand Guild contributes to the growing arts scene in Macon fueled by creatives who are committed to community revitalization and a healthy urban core,” said Emily Hopkins, Main Street Macon Manager. “It is fitting Ampersand Guild’s home is located on Cherry Street in the midst of Macon’s renaissance.”