The following information is a breakdown from the 145 public survey responses that we have received:
The individuals who were surveyed overwhelmingly utilize the James Island Art and Community Center as a public space for their organizations to meet on a monthly schedule. They highly value having a space for civic engagement. They would judge the center to be successful by how frequently it is used, again this reflects their perception of the center as a meeting space. There was very little mention of art exhibits or shows. There was a strong desire for master gardening classes and bouquet making classes.
60% of individuals stated that they would utilize the space monthly and 13% would utilize the space weekly. Data indicates that the citizens who previously utilized the old James Island Arts & Cultural Center primarily occupied the space for their organizations to gather.
70% of respondents said that they would likely utilize the new center on a very regular basis.
The responses from James Island citizens indicate that there is a desire for: master gardener/ bouquet making classes (51.5%), kids art classes (50%), sculpture/ ceramic classes (45.6%), art exhibits (44.12%), adult art classes (43.4%), music performances/ concerts (43.4%), yoga/ mindfulness practices (43.4%), room rentals for meetings/ event space (40.4%), performing arts/ theater performances/ lessons (39%), art shows (39%), D.I.Y home décor classes (37%), photography classes (34%), natural history and environmental classes/ lectures (32.4%), music lessons (32%), senior art classes (adults 65+) (24.3%), welding classes (24%), choir performances and lessons (21%), creative writing classes (17%), fiber arts glasses/ groups (15%), and juried art show (13.24%).
On a scale of 1-10, 145 citizen responses averaged an “8” on the importance of having a local community/ arts center for the public and averaged a “7” for their likelihood of visiting a community / art center.
The Town of James Island has been and is working diligently with our citizens to gather information on what they would like to be offered and what uses of the new James Island Art and Community Center are in their best interest.