Bailey Contemporary Arts Celebrates 5th Anniversary

Pompano Beach’s Downtown can trace its renaissance to the opening of Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) on April 16, 2014. In the five years since the ribbon cutting ceremony, the venue has been a catalyst for the City’s emerging cultural community and a key driver for local economic development.

Built in 1923, the historic Bailey Hotel was, at one point, the center of a thriving downtown in Pompano Beach. City leaders, understanding the historic significance of the building, looked to the past when envisioning the future and created an ambitious redevelopment plan to emerge from this historic center.

“The importance of Bailey Contemporary Arts cannot be underestimated,” said Pompano Beach Mayor Rex Hardin. “This venue put the City’s emerging art scene in the spotlight with its creative exhibitions, support of emerging artists and a robust schedule of events and workshops. BaCA’s emergence fueled the success of the Old Town Untapped events and stimulated the economic development in the surrounding area. There is much to celebrate during this 5th anniversary, and we are very proud of all of the people who made this venue a success.”

As the second oldest remaining building (right behind the old Farmer’s Bank building next door) and part of the longest contiguous collection of historic buildings in Broward County, the Bailey Hotel was reimagined as a thriving artists hub. The meticulous renovation resulted in a stunning building that now offers two main galleries to showcase exhibitions, the Blooming Bean Coffee Roaster which also offers exhibitions, and a dynamic second floor occupied by the venue’s Artists in Residence. (SIDE BAR—Meet our current artists)

“During the past five years, Bailey Contemporary Arts has showcased an incredible array of artists,” said Phyllis Korab, Cultural Affairs Director. “From established, respected creators to exciting emerging influences, BaCA has given a platform to some of the most dynamic artists on the scene. We are very proud of what has been accomplished, and we are enthusiastic about what the future will hold.”