Mission Statement
The Guild's mission:  
        "to support area artists and to be a strong voice of the visual arts in Southwest Nebraska."        

Past To Present
  
        In 1963, the McCook Art Guild began as a small group of artists interested in expanding their knowledge and experience with art in all forms of mediums. A number of local teachers and instructors generously gave their time and instruction in classes and workshops organized for the Guild members. Soon, their works were juried into local and state competitions and exhibitions. Members became involved in art sponsorship, serving on boards and working as council members for various organizations involved in promoting the practice and appreciation for art. 
        Originally, the group met for classes, workshops and meetings on the upper floor of the Mason Insurance building owned by Mr. Volentine. When that building was sold, they met at St. Catherine’s Hospital. During this time, Don Dernovich, an art instructor at McCook Community College, made the Wrightstone building available to them. Most recently, Dr. Joe Magrath, a local veterinarian, has generously provided the Guild with its present Art Center & Gallery on historic Norris Avenue in downtown McCook. 
        Generous benefactors continue to provide for the Guild so that its members may continue to promote community art education by hosting numerous workshops and exhibitions. A number of the Guild’s founding members remain active participants in both the educational and civic aspects of the Guild. Many current members are educators who work within the educational system with young, emerging artists. Members of the Guild are represented in corporate and private collections worldwide and they continue to succeed in receiving recognition in prestigious competitions and exhibitions.