BUCYRUS — The Crawford County Art Center has announced the grand opening of its new location at 117 N. Sandusky Avenue in Bucyrus.
The recently renovated 2,000 square-foot space represents an investment of nearly $10,000, made possible in part through a variety of grants and private donations.
The Crawford County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a ribbon-cutting on Friday,
Jan. 17 at 11 a.m. The Art Center will be open to the public Friday, Jan. 17 through Sunday, Jan. 19 from noon to 6 p.m. with a complimentary flower-making activity that will be used to decorate the new location.
The new Art Center will have an updated interior, including art-friendly floors, lighting, accessible seating, an upgraded kitchen, and the classroom is equipped with electrical upgrades to support classes that include sewing machines and hot tools.
Recognizing the need for additional space and services, the Board of Directors and Executive Director Kaylee Powers sought a new location.
This strategic move not only accommodates their growth but will allow current and expanded services including private event rentals, organization and corporate rentals, facilitated art activities, Creation Station for free kids classes, Open Studio every Monday, access for artist to tools, retail gallery with consignment pieces for sale, and a front area for displaying exhibitions.
Kaylee Powers expressed her excitement about the expansion.
“The new location is more available and accessible to the community and will look like a true, modern art gallery with more flexible space to allow for unique art pieces like sculptures.
“In addition, the expanded classroom space and kitchen will allow us the ability to host private events which can contribute to our nonprofit’s revenue stream and offerings.”
The Crawford County Art Center began in 2013 and is guided by a 12-person Board of Directors and managed day-to-day by two part-time employees.
In addition, there is a core group of nearly 20 volunteers who lead art activities and classes.
The Art Center had previously been awarded a grant by the Community Foundation for Crawford County for a digital gallery which includes iPads, a digital gallery display, and high-quality printing capabilities.
Community members interested in supporting or engaging with the Art Center are invited to attend the Preview Reception on Wednesday, Jan. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. For classes and information visit the center’s website, https://www.crawfordcountyartcenter.com/.
“The Crawford County Art Center’s move to a downtown location is a win for the community,” Bucyrus Mayor Bruce Truka said. “Its accessibility will invite more residents and visitors to experience the arts, while also enhancing the vibrancy and cultural appeal of the downtown area.
“The expansion reflects the local support of the arts and creating a destination for creativity and connectivity.”