Know Before You Go

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re here to help make your visit to GRAC welcoming, enjoyable, and stress-free! Below you’ll find answers to common questions about what to expect, from arrival details and building information to ways you can make the most of your time with us. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a familiar face, we’re glad you’re here.

General

  • No. Membership is not required to attend events, performances, or classes. Members do receive benefits such as early registration, discounts, and special invitations. Sign up for membership here.

  • GRAC offers Arts for All pricing, scholarships, student discounts, military discounts, and occasional promotional rates. Availability varies by event or program and will always be clearly noted in the event or class information.

  • GRAC is committed to providing a safe environment for all patrons. For events with attendance of 100 or more, all guests are required to pass through a metal detector and undergo a bag check upon arrival.

    Firearms of any kind are not permitted in the building, and smoking or vaping is not allowed indoors.

    For emergency preparedness, floor plans with fire exit routes and shelter-in-place information are posted on each floor. The building is equipped with fire extinguishers, an AED, and clearly marked exits throughout.

    GRAC staff are trained in CPR, the Heimlich maneuver, first-aid, Narcan, AED, and EpiPen use to help ensure patron safety.

  • Yes. GRAC is accessible to patrons with disabilities. The building features a ramped entrance, designated accessible parking, automatic push-button doors, an elevator, and ramped access within the performance hall. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, we encourage you to contact us in advance so we can best support your visit.

  • There is no formal dress code at GRAC. Some events may have themes and encourage guests to dress accordingly, but participation is optional. Guests are welcome to dress in whatever makes them comfortable.

    For entry, our general policy is no shoes, no shirt, no service. Clothing displaying hate speech, discriminatory language, or offensive imagery is not permitted.

  • Food: Many events offer food, either complimentary or available for purchase, depending on the program. Outside food is generally discouraged unless otherwise noted.

    Beverages: Bottled water and soda are available for purchase in the gift shop during regular hours and events.

    Alcohol: Select events may offer alcohol for purchase. A valid ID is required for all alcohol sales.

  • Yes. Upon arrival feel free to request a tour by the staff member who greets you.

  • Yes! GRAC is a family-friendly space and we love welcoming children.

    We offer a variety of kid-specific classes, camps, and programs throughout the year. If an event, performance, or exhibition includes mature content, that information will be clearly noted in the listing.

    For everyone’s safety and to protect artwork and equipment, children must remain supervised at all times and should not roam freely throughout the building.

    A baby-changing station is available in the basement restroom for caregiver convenience.

Events & Performances

  • Event listings will always indicate whether tickets are required. Most events do require tickets, though we do occasionally offer free or unticketed events.

    We strongly recommend purchasing tickets in advance through our website, in person during open hours, or you may call us to purchase tickets over the phone. Tickets at the door are limited and not guaranteed.

  • For theatre performances, doors to the performance hall open 30 minutes before showtime. For other events, doors open 15 minutes before the scheduled start time or at the start time itself, depending on the event. Doors do not open earlier than these times. Please plan your arrival accordingly.

  • After purchasing tickets, a copy will be sent to the email address you provide. Tickets can be displayed on a mobile device or printed at home. If you purchase tickets in person at GRAC, we can also provide a printed copy if needed.

  • Upon arrival, please check in at the front desk or designated check-in table. Having your tickets ready is helpful, but we can also check you in by name if needed.

  • Non-flash photography may be allowed, but flash photography and video recording are not permitted unless explicitly announced. Phone use during performances can be distracting to performers and audience members and may interfere with professional videography, so we ask that phones be silenced and used minimally during performances.

  • If a ticketed event is rescheduled, all previously purchased tickets will automatically be honored for the new date. Patrons will be notified of the change via email, as well as through updates on our website and social media channels.

  • Ticket purchases are non-refundable unless an event is canceled by GRAC. In some cases, and at our discretion, we may offer a credit toward a future event.

Classes, Camps, & Workshops

  • Yes. All classes/camps/workshops require registration unless otherwise noted. We strongly recommend registering in advance, as space is limited and early registration helps our staff prepare materials and plan for participants.

  • Registration can be done through our website, in person during open hours, or you may call us to register over the phone.

  • After completing registration, a confirmation will be sent to the email address you provide.

  • Yes. Upon arrival, a staff member will check you in by name at the front desk and direct you on where to go.

  • Most classes are beginner-friendly unless otherwise noted. We welcome participants of all skill levels.

  • Any required materials or supplies will be listed in the class description. Most classes include materials in the registration fee and are provided by us.

  • Cancellation in less than 3 days prior to class (fewer than 72 hours): No refund or class credit can be given for cancellations under 72 hours prior to the start time of the class the ticket holder is enrolled in. 

    Cancellation with greater than 3 days to class (72 hours): If the ticket holder cancels via email or written notification to the Gateway Regional Arts Center at least 72 hours (three days) prior to the start time of the class, they will receive a class credit for the amount paid. 

    Cancellation greater than one week (7 days): If a ticket holder cancels via email or written notification to the Gateway Regional Arts Center at least one week (seven days) prior to the start time of the class, they can receive a refund minus a $5 processing fee. 

Exhibits & Galleries

  • Yes. All of our galleries are free to view thanks to the support of donors and sponsors.

  • A gallery reception is a public event that celebrates an exhibition. Sometimes it takes place on the opening day of the exhibit, and other times it is scheduled later during the exhibition’s run. Receptions typically include an opportunity to view the artwork, hear from the artist(s) through a short talk or Q&A, and enjoy complimentary light refreshments while meeting other guests. All of GRAC’s receptions are free.

  • Exhibition schedules vary by gallery. The Gillie Frye Gallery on the main floor and the Kezele Café Gallery on the basement level typically rotate every 4–12 weeks, depending on the exhibition. The J.D. Wilson Gallery on the second floor houses GRAC’s permanent Contemporary Kenyan Art collection.

  • Many exhibited works are available for purchase. Artwork labels will indicate if a piece is for sale, and pricing and sales information can be found in the gallery or by asking a staff member.

  • GRAC occasionally issues open calls for artists for specific, themed exhibitions. All gallery exhibitions are thoughtfully curated, and we are not able to accept unsolicited artwork submissions.

    Artists interested in exhibiting regularly may also consider joining the Gate City Arts Guild, an active artist collective that hosts an annual gallery exhibition at GRAC. Learn how to become a member here.

    Professional artists interested in hosting a full gallery exhibition at GRAC should contact our Assistant Director for consideration; please note that exhibitions are planned well in advance, often years ahead.

  • Some exhibitions include interactive elements, which will be clearly noted in the gallery or exhibit information. Unless an exhibit specifically invites interaction, artwork should not be touched.

    Photography and video recording are generally allowed for personal use unless otherwise stated.

  • Yes. Group visits, including school and community groups, are welcome. Advance notice to our Education Director is encouraged to ensure the best experience.