Heartland Art Center displaced after fire, staff and artwork safe

The Heartland Art Center in downtown Plymouth is closed following a fire at its building last week, but officials report all staff members are safe and the facility's artwork collection was not damaged.

In a statement released Monday, the arts organization thanked emergency responders and community members who acted quickly during the incident.

"We owe deep thanks to the neighbors who acted quickly, the firefighters who responded with such selfless professionalism and care, and to the many members and volunteers who showed up within literal moments to help secure critical materials," said Anna Kietzman, President and Director of the Heartland Art Center.

The fire has forced the cancellation and postponement of several upcoming events and programs. A reception scheduled for artist Melissa Coole this Friday, February 27, has been canceled. The center plans to reschedule the event once renovation work is complete.

Youth Art Month, originally planned for March, has been pushed back to April. The center said updated dates will be shared soon, and participating families and schools will be contacted directly.

Registered class participants are being contacted individually to arrange alternative locations for their sessions.

Additionally, the Northeast Neighborhood Update meeting originally scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, at the art center has been relocated to City Council Chambers at 124 N. Michigan Street.

Heartland Art Center officials said they plan to announce a temporary location soon and are encouraging the public to watch for updates. Anyone with questions can contact the organization at heartlandartistsgallery@gmail.com.

The center expressed gratitude for the community support following the fire, calling the response a reminder of why "our community is truly the best."