cobblestonearts

The story of Cobblestone Arts Center began with a simple yet radical belief: that the joy of the arts and performance belongs to everyone. Long before we were a multidisciplinary center, Cobblestone began as Wheels in Motion, a wheelchair dance company dedicated to carving out space for artists of all abilities. Central to that history, and to the heart of our Executive Director, Lorene Benson, was a man whose spirit was as extraordinary as his performance. Recently, we said goodbye to Miguel...

Kathy Houser AKA Grandma Hattie, photographed at her tea room, shows how every day is a special occasion worth celebrating. To many at Cobblestone Arts Center, Kathy Houser is lovingly known as Grandma Hattie, a name that reflects her lasting influence on the community. This fall, Kathy was featured on the Snazzy & Sage podcast, hosted by Dr. Kerry Szymanski, a former second-grade student of Kathy’s. Their conversation, “Art, Entrepreneurship & Aging with Joy”, highlighted Kathy’s journey...

Teaching artist Paul McArdle stands alongside his student Deepesh—a meaningful moment honoring the connection that inspired the Empathy Award, initiated by Deepesh’s father. Empathy is the quiet force that connects us—one caring action at a time. The Empathy Award was created to honor individuals who lead with compassion, cultivate meaningful relationships, and embody a true spirit of service. It’s more than a recognition of kindness; it’s a celebration of those who consistently show up for...