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Visit our calendar for open days and upcoming events!
Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of this historic property
SUMMER ART RECEPTION: July 25th, 1pm-4pm
Photo Courtesy of Pura Vida Sierras Art
Celebrating 62 years on the Comstock
Immerse yourself in a dynamic space where creativity flourishes. Let us take you on a magical journey into the world of St Mary’s, Virginia City then and now, surrounded by the artworks of established and emerging artists.
Built in 1875, St. Mary's Art Center is the Grand Dame of Virginia City, Nevada, and a cornerstone of this National Historic Landmark building. Perched high in the Virginia Range mountains near historic gold and silver mine shafts, the building was originally St. Marie Louise Hospital, built to serve Comstock miners, and later served as Storey County Hospital.
When the Gold and Silver Rush declined and populations dropped in the 1940s, the property sat vacant for twenty years and fell into disrepair. In 1964, Father Meinecke and Louise Curran saved the building with a bold vision: dedicating it to arts and culture. This four-story, gabled, red brick structure with Doric columns sits on land donated by Mary Louise Mackay, wife of one of the four Bonanza Kings.
Today, St. Mary's Art Center is a thriving art center celebrating its 62nd year. It is an inclusive, welcoming space offering a wide range of arts and culture programs, where creativity can flourish in an atmosphere of quiet beauty. With 15 guest rooms, an art studio, a print room, multiple floors of art galleries, a library, a theatre, and more, it is a unique gem on the Comstock and in Northern Nevada. Just far enough off the beaten track to be peaceful, yet close enough to the eclectic, historic town of Virginia City to enjoy a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere, eccentric characters, and fun things to do.
In addition to being an art gallery and offering creative programming, the Art Center is available year-round to host creative workshops, artist retreats, private events, weddings and group functions.
We offer self-guided tours in English and Spanish, and in 2026 we are expanding to include virtual tours in English, Spanish, English Sign Language and Spanish Sign Language.
St. Mary’s is located about 40 minutes from Lake Tahoe and just 25 minutes from Reno and Carson City. Come take a class, wander through our six galleries, discover historical exhibitions, and view original artwork by established local and regional artists.
Thank you to our funders:
