We are thrilled to share some exciting news for the future of the Ashokan Center.
The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) has awarded the Ashokan Center a $145,000 Capital Projects Fund grant to support the design phase of our future Arts & Education Lodge.
This investment is part of a statewide announcement totaling more than $82 million in capital funding awarded to 132 arts and cultural organizations across New York State. The funding will help us take an important next step toward providing modern, energy-efficient housing for Ashokan’s visiting artists, performers, and seasonal outdoor educators while also including flexible spaces for learning and community gathering.
By relocating lodging from Ashokan’s historic Winchell’s Inn, the project will allow us to restore that landmark building for future public programs, rentals, and exhibits—advancing the next phase of the Center’s long-term capital vision.
For nearly two decades, the Ashokan Center has inspired learning and built community through shared experiences in nature, history, music, and art. Each year, thousands of people visit our campus for outdoor education programs, cultural events, concerts, festivals, workshops, and camps. The Arts & Education Lodge represents an investment in the future of that mission.
“New York’s powerful arts and culture sector is a formidable asset,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “Our continued investments in museums, theaters and art centers generate incredible returns — sparking innovation, boosting local economies, driving visitors and making us the global epicenter of arts and culture.”
New York State Council on the Arts Executive Director Erika Mallin said, “We know that when the arts flourish, communities follow — bringing energy, creating jobs, expanding accessibility, and increasing tourism. This grant program is a critical investment in our creative sector, empowering our creative community and inspiring innovation.”
We are deeply grateful to NYSCA, Governor Hochul, and the New York State Legislature for recognizing the importance of arts, culture, environmental education, and community spaces throughout New York State.
This grant supports the design phase of the project, helping us move closer to a future facility that will strengthen Ashokan’s ability to welcome learners, artists, musicians, dancers, educators, and community members from across the Hudson Valley and beyond.
We look forward to sharing more updates as planning progresses and are excited for what this investment will mean for the future of the Ashokan Center.
Thank you to everyone who continues to support our mission and help make projects like this possible. Together, we are building the next chapter of Ashokan’s story.