Author: Cortney Moses
Planning Unit: Whitley County CES
Major Program: Advancing the Creative Economy
Plan of Work: Encourage Vibrant Communities and support Economic Development
Outcome: Initial Outcome
The Extension Community Arts Center has become a beacon of success for the Whitley County Artisans, providing them with opportunities to display, exhibit, and sell their work. With the number of artists in the area on the rise, the center has filled a crucial void by hosting monthly artist exhibitions.
Each exhibition lasts for one month, with the highlight being an artist reception that allows the community to engage with the artist. This unique event gives attendees the chance to learn more about the artists' inspiration and creative process, as well as purchase their artwork. The reception also provides a space for local culinary artisans and musicians to showcase their talents, creating a rich and vibrant cultural experience for visitors.
The Extension Community Arts Agent works closely with local artists, food vendors, and musicians to coordinate these events, ensuring each one is unique and memorable. This approach has led to the success of the exhibitions, with the recent show by Kellene Turner being a prime example.
Turner's exhibition, held in September 2022, drew in a large number of attendees from across the state and beyond. The event was a huge success, with Turner receiving numerous inquiries for her next show and interest from young artists looking to create their own body of work. The exhibition also provided an opportunity for Turner to engage with the community, answer questions about her art, and sell a number of her pieces.
The monthly artist exhibitions have attracted over 400 visitors to the gallery in just three months, providing valuable exposure for the artists and musicians involved. The program has generated profits of $3,750 for the artists as well as creating new programmatic opportunities, community publicity, and economic benefits for the local artists. The success of the exhibitions has also given artists like Turner the confidence to set new goals and challenges, helping to further develop their art and contribute to the thriving arts scene in Whitley County.
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