'The Nest' Grand Opening This Weekend

The walls have been painted and the artwork hung. , the much-anticipated grand opening of the Nest, the new arts center and incubator in Historic Norcross, has been set.

On Jan. 28 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. the doors will be opened in the old Rectory at 17 College St., next door to the .

Those at the soiree will be able to participate in an interactive sculpture-building project that will have a spectacular reveal—and be a chance for community members to leave their mark on the Nest, says Director Lori Sturgess.

Strugess said she’s been taken aback by the outpouring of donated materials and donated time. “I’m so humbled by everyone’s generosity,” she said. Now she’s just hoping to give all of the volunteers and donors the recognition they deserve. 

The Arts Center aspires to be a cultural hub in Norcross, sponsoring classes and events, with the schedule soon to be published for the first quarter of the year, according to Sturgess.

“We’re really discovering great teachers with an amazing cross-section of talents,” said Sturgess, who is excited to be putting together the events for the year. She said she’s designing the schedule with those talents in mind—as well as around the many items that have been donated.

The space can also host artists-in-residence, giving them support for creating a viable art businesses.

Annie Sloan chalk paint demos will be taking place throughout the night and the retail shop, which features unique “transfers” on bags, clothing and other materials, will be open to explore as well.  (Sloan has created a line of “chalk paints” that allows people to creatively add color to items, especially furniture, so that they look antique.) 

The event also serves as a fundraiser for the Norcross Arts Alliance. Entry will be $35 for non-Arts Alliance members and $20 for those who are members. Go to NorcrossArtsAlliance.org to gain membership, which will also get you discounted entrance to upcoming events and activities. 

Area restaurants will be providing food for the event. Entry includes beer, wine and live entertainment, in addition to the sculpture project.