Phase 1: Acquisition
The House of MAGIC Foundation for the Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of the Santa Paula community through accessible arts education and programming. We have a unique opportunity to acquire the building at 102 N 7th St, a historic and centrally located property currently owned by the Masons and used as a Masonic Temple. This building holds significant cultural and historical value, and we aim to honor its legacy while transforming it into a dynamic hub for dance, music, art, magic, and performing arts classes. With this space, we can expand our reach and provide transformative experiences for an underserved population.
To realize this vision, we aim to raise $2.5 million for the acquisition and development of the building. We are seeking the support of the current property owner, our community, and other stakeholders to make this dream a reality. Together, we can foster creativity, inspire future generations, and strengthen the cultural fabric of Santa Paula.
Imagine a vibrant arts center in the heart of Santa Paula where children, teens, and adults can explore their creativity, develop new skills, and build lifelong connections. The House of MAGIC Foundation for the Arts envisions transforming 102 N 7th St into:
- Dance Studios: Offering ballet, hip-hop, and cultural dance classes.
- Music Rooms: Providing lessons in guitar, piano, voice, and more.
- Art Workshops: Teaching painting, drawing, ceramics, and multimedia arts.
- Magic and Performance Spaces: Cultivating confidence and public speaking through magic, improv, and theater classes.
- Community Events Venue: Hosting performances, gallery exhibitions, and workshops that bring the community together.
This facility will be a hub for self-expression, education, and community building, open to all regardless of socioeconomic background.
Santa Paula is an underserved community with limited access to affordable arts education. Many families lack the resources to enroll their children in extracurricular programs, leaving a gap in creative opportunities that are crucial for personal and academic development.
The arts have been shown to:
- Improve academic performance and critical thinking skills.
- Enhance emotional well-being and social connections.
- Lessen stress and build confidence.
- Reduce acts of crime
By expanding arts programming in Santa Paula, we will:
- Serve over 3,000 students annually with affordable or free classes.
- Provide a safe and inspiring environment for youth and adults.
- Create jobs for local artists and educators.
- Strengthen community pride and cultural identity.
