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Behind the Door article: Behind the Door: Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
February 23, 2009
Source: Community Partnership Update/March 2009
Part of a continuing series of articles highlighting key institutions in the Clifton community
 An architectural landmark in the historic neighborhood of Druid Hills, Callanwolde Fine Arts Center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally built in 1920 and owned by one of the city's preeminent families, the Candler's, the 12.5 acre estate remains a gracious and inviting home, and is one of the liveliest and finest arts education centers in the Southeast.
Callanwolde is a community arts center and a non-profit organization that serves the Clifton community as an educational center for all ages in the visual, literary and performing arts.
The magnificent 27,000 square-foot Gothic-Tudor style mansion is situated in a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by natural woods and formal gardens at 980 Briarcliff Road. Callanwolde was established as a fine arts center in 1973, and since then has experienced dramatic growth.
With that growth came the opportunity to preserve, restore and develop Callanwolde Estate. "Callanwolde has recently taken on a major renovation plan to recapture the beauty and splendor of the estate," said Callanwolde's executive director, Sam Goldman.
The renovations to Callanwolde were funded by a capital campaign under the direction of the Callanwolde Foundation and DeKalb County. The project includes interior and exterior mansion renovations and restoration of a circa 1920s two-story pool house. This structure was left in ruin for many decades but will now be fully restored.
"We are also making improvements to partially restore the original landscape design with tree and plant replacement and the addition of a memorial hydrangea garden to honor one of our volunteers, Charlotte Rowell," said Goldman. Additionally, a new three-tiered terraced lawn area will create an informal outdoor space for social gatherings in the gardens.
This restoration project allows Callanwolde to protect its rich historical value and continue to encourage community spirit and individuality through creative expression.
"With the current economic difficulties surrounding us, people will want to nurture themselves and connect with their inner spirit," said Goldman. "Learning new skills and participating in the creative experience gives students a deeply satisfying sense of well-being as they take a break from the concerns and demands in their day-to-day lives."
The long-awaited grand opening of the newly restored pool house will be held April 1 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. The community is invited to come celebrate and tour the new gardens. RSVP by calling 404-872-5338 ext. 240.
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