Enriching Middle Tennessee's Arts & Culture for 40 Years
Since 1985, the Center of Excellence for the Creative Arts (CECA, pronounced "seek-ah") has been the cultural cornerstone of Austin Peay State University and Middle Tennessee. As a dynamic arts hub, we bring creativity, innovation, and artistic excellence to the Clarksville community and beyond.
What We Offer
Programs & Events
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Public concerts and performances
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Art exhibitions and galleries
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Guest artist lectures
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Professional masterclasses
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Innovative workshops
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Artist residency programs
Academic Support
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Student scholarships for emerging artists
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Faculty research opportunities
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Professional development resources
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Hands-on learning experiences

All CECA events are free and open to the community unless otherwise noted. Join us in celebrating the arts and fostering creative excellence in Middle Tennessee.
Creative Arts Areas at Austin Peay

The Department offers comprehensive studies in:
- Drawing and Painting
- Digital Media
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Photography
- Ceramics
- Printmaking
- Sculpture
- Art Education

Housed in the Department of Languages & Literature, our writing program features:
- Undergraduate and graduate courses
- Small, intimate class sizes
- Internship opportunities
- Scholarship programs
- Active creative community

A cornerstone of Clarksville's cultural landscape, offering:
- Performance opportunities
- Professional training
- Community engagement
- Concert series
- Ensemble experiences

Features state-of-the-art facilities and programs focusing on:
- Performance arts
- Technical theatre
- Dance studies
- Professional development
- Community outreach
Latest News
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The show will run from Nov. 13-16 in the Mike and Sara Gotcher Theatre, located in the Trahern Building at APSU. Playwright Gina Femia and Farm Theater Executive/Artistic Director Padraic Lillis will also host a free playwriting masterclass on Nov. 13.
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Zone 3 Press is hosting Molberg for a free public reading and book signing on November 13, 2025. She is the author of three poetry collections: Marvels of the Invisible; Refusal; and The Court of No Record.
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The Department of Music will present its free Choir Fest featuring performances from regional high schools and university ensembles on Oct. 29 in the Mabry Concert Hall.
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