Leaders for the Austin ArtWorks Center are getting closer to reaching their fundraising goal to remodel the bank building.

The capital campaign for the ArtWorks Center at 300 N. Main St. is about $150,000 away from meeting its $600,000 goal, according to Austin Area Commission of the Arts Executive Director Jennie Knoebel.

Work is already underway to renovate the former former bank, which has been vacant a long time, according to Knoebel. Several community members were interested in having something happen with the space, and the ArtWorks Center seemed to be the perfect thing.

“It’s so architecturally beautiful it’s almost a piece of art itself,” Knoebel said.

While they have had a few small fundraisers, including selling donated art and holding a wine and yoga night, most of the funding comes from donations. Along with a $325,000 grant from the Hormel Foundation, other significant donors include Jeff and Leanne Ettinger, Pat and Gary Ray, Dick and Belita Schindler, Mayo Clinic Health System of Austin, and four other private donors. Knoebel said more fundraisers may be held soon, but none are planned yet. Knoebel and leaders are open to suggestions.

An ArtWorks Center grand opening is scheduled for Aug. 21, with a private get-together for donors from 4 to 6 p.m. and a public event at 6 p.m., which will include special guests, activities and a chance to see the new center.