$3M Folk Art Museum Coming to Downtown Rock Hill in 2026

Artist Jim Shore plans a 22,000-square-foot museum in Rock Hill, South Carolina. The building at 109 Hampton Street will open its doors in late 2026, bringing dozens of jobs to the area. The $3 million project marks a big step for downtown growth.

Inside the two-floor space, guests will find the Jim Shore Museum Experience and Gift Shop. The walls will hold more than 30,000 works from small crafts to large paintings. Video screens, rotating art shows, and themed displays will fill the space.

"Rock Hill has always been close to my heart, and I couldn't imagine a better place to share my life's work," Shore said, per Queen City News.

Shore picked his home state over spots in Florida, Missouri, and Tennessee. "I'm from South Carolina — I love this state and I love this community," Shore said, according to WCNC.

The artist's work spans partnerships with Disney, Warner Bros., and Coca-Cola. His pieces mix American folk style with European touches and quilt patterns. Fans might spot his versions of Harry Potter, Peanuts, or The Grinch.

The ground floor will mix retail space with spots for local artists to show their work. Special items and seasonal pieces will go on sale. The money helps military families, first responders, and kids in hospitals through Shore's giving program.

Rock Hill Mayor John Gettys sees big potential. "Five years from now, this will be the foundational piece that things will grow from," Gettys said, according to The Herald.

Shore keeps his roots in the area with studios in Lake Wylie and Fort Lawn. His ties go back to 1965, when he helped craft displays at the Museum of York County, including work in the African room.

The old building's charm fits the city's push to bring life back downtown. Near the new spot sit the Arts Council base, a kids' museum, and soon, the Marlie Center for shows and concerts.