Its purpose was to encourage and appreciation of the arts, and to commend the talent and work of its members and others in the arts community. The group gradually evolved into a regional art center with several hundred members from throughout northern and central New Jersey. Members include artists working in various media and disciplines as well as art lovers who support the arts, but who are not artists themselves. The Millburn-Short Hills Art Center sponsors a variety of activities including music and art workshops, art exhibitions, decorative arts classes, educational programs and the judging and critiquing of members' works. The center also hosts performances by such groups as honors string ensembles and the annual winner of the New Jersey Youth Symphony Piano Competition.
All programs are open to the public.