Building on a Legacy of Creativity in York
For many in York, the Little Green Church is a familiar and cherished landmark. Its small steeple and historic character have long been part of the city’s history, reflecting the generations of people who have passed through its doors.
Soon, the building will begin a new chapter.
The York Art Association is transforming the Little Green Church into its future headquarters, creating a welcoming space where artists, students, families and community members can gather to learn, create and connect through the visual arts.
The project is part of the organization’s Art Transforming Capital Campaign, an effort to restore the historic structure while reimagining it as a vibrant center for arts education and exhibitions. The renovated building will include classroom studios, gallery space and areas designed to bring people together around creativity.
Support from the Powder Mill Foundation is helping make this vision possible. The foundation’s investment is helping fund the renovation and critical upgrades needed to open the space to the public once again.
When the project is complete, the York Art Association will be able to expand its classes, workshops and youth programs. Larger studios will help meet growing demand for art education, while renovated gallery spaces will create new opportunities for exhibitions, professional development and partnerships with schools, colleges and local arts organizations. Together, these improvements will expand access for families and students while strengthening York’s arts community and contributing to the region’s cultural and economic vitality.
The project also continues a long tradition of supporting the arts in York.
Founded in 1905, the York Art Association is one of the oldest arts organizations in Pennsylvania. It was established by local leaders and artists who believed the visual arts should be accessible to the entire community. More than a century later, that vision continues through classes, exhibitions and programs that serve thousands of people each year.
For the York Art Association, the partnership with the Powder Mill Foundation carries special meaning. The Appell family, whose legacy lives on through the foundation, were longtime members and supporters of the organization. The association still cares for a rose bush donated by the Appells, a small but meaningful reminder of their encouragement of local artists and their belief in the importance of the arts.
Mr. Appell believed deeply in investing in the community and supporting organizations that help people grow and thrive. We believe he would be proud to see this historic space preserved and opened to the community as a place where young artists can discover their talents and where creativity continues to flourish in York.
Roth Preap, York Art Association Executive Director
That spirit of stewardship and community investment is reflected in the Little Green Church project. By preserving a historic building and opening it as a place for creativity and learning, the York Art Association is creating new opportunities for future generations of artists.
Leaders say the transformation of the space represents more than a renovation.
This project has been shaped by community voices, local partnerships and decades of the York Art Association’s history. The transformation of this space is not only about creating classrooms and galleries, but also about fostering opportunities and belonging. We are deeply grateful to the Powder Mill Foundation for helping us take a generational leap forward.
Roth Preap
