For its first six years, the Jamaica Arts Center was a project of the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation. It was incorporated as a separate entity in 1978, and its first staff were CETA workers and members of a local artist's collective. Housed in a neo-Renaissance structure built in 1898, JAC is now a New York City landmark and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. JAC serves an area with 600,000 residents from all cultural backgrounds. Now in its third decade as a multi-cultural center, it offers exhibitions, performances, workshops and classes in performing and visual arts disciplines.
Programs focus on understanding and appreciating cultural differences through the arts.
Schools, artists, children, senior citizens, young adults and residents partake in JAC programs during the week and on Saturdays. Children's Theater Series with performances rooted in specific cultures that emphasize positive social values and creative thinking are held year-round.