Founded in 1978, the Downriver Council for the Arts (DCA) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) arts and cultural organization that proudly serves nearly 400,000 residents in 21 Downriver communities. The DCA's mission is to enrich the quality of life in the Downriver communities by advocating and promoting the arts and providing opportunities for involvement and participation in arts and cultural activities.
We actively support local artists and performers through artistic outreach programs and special promotional opportunities. The DCA also creates regional partnerships with other cultural organizations, schools and service clubs to promote artistic, cultural and special events throughout Southeast Michigan. We hold these activities in our Arts Center and by operating in the various cities we serve. Each program and event at the DCA seeks to increase knowledge and understanding of art and ourselves, improve skills by participants, change one’s attitude or values, give enjoyment, inspiration, and creativity. We welcome all people including youth of all ages, disabled people, underserved/minority populations, and social conscious groups. The architecture of the building, constructed in 1911, represents the splendor of a different era: a time when Wyandotte exemplified our region’s entrance into America’s industrial boom. The structure was built by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, an internationally recognized fraternal service organization. In 1943, the building was bought by the Fraternal Order of Free and Accepted Masons. The Masons remained in the building for over 50 years, continuing the Odd Fellows’ tradition of community service and good fellowship. The building was purchased by the City of Wyandotte in 2008 under the tenure of then Mayor James R. The intention was to preserve its rich history and redevelop it as a cultural facility. To that end, it became the home of the Downriver Council for the Arts in 2010. Need space for your event? The Center has rental space in its lower gallery, upper gallery, classroom, and auditorium. There are also four studios for rent as well. The Center is a great location for meetings, workshops, graduations, showers and much more. For more information, please call 734-720-0671 or visit the DCA's website at www.downriverarts.org
