FREDERIC ARTS CELEBRATES 15 TH ANNIVERSARY WITH PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE
Frederic Arts observed its 15th anniversary celebration on Friday, Oct. 20 at the Frederic Arts Center. Over 40 attended for the good conversation, tasty appetizers, and a look at future plans for the location.
The impetus to create a nonprofit arts organization came from a small group of area artists and art supporters who began meeting regularly at the Frederic Library in 2008. They wanted to provide art experiences that encompassed five goals: education, including classes and workshops; a gallery for local art; music and literary performances; artist studio space; and community public art. The first Frederic Arts Board consisted of nine members, and four of them – Nancy Buley, Mark Buley, Chris Byerly, and Jack Route – continue to serve on the current board with Diane Keeler, Tammy Seebach, Lloyd Wilson, and Ann Wolgamot.
Frederic Arts found a permanent home when it began renting the former American Legion Post facility in 2010 and ultimately purchased it from the village in January 2018, renaming it the Frederic Arts Center. The building was once a schoolhouse south of town, but it found a new purpose and location in 1957 when it was acquired by the Legion and moved to its present location. Today this building, a viable example of local history, is once again being used as a classroom for the wide variety of art instruction for all ages.
The Frederic Arts mission “to create artistic opportunities and preserve the cultural fabric of our community through educational events and programs” is alive and well in the little schoolhouse. Frederic Arts provides educational public service by teaching art and craft through a wide variety of hands-on experiences and classes. The board is committed to making art instruction opportunities available year-round to everyone, from preschoolers to +65 seniors.
Classes and programming are offered both at the Arts Center and in outreach opportunities throughout the village. The project to provide a sloped sidewalk with handicapped parking allowing wheelchair access to the classroom area is currently being implemented, and additional modifications to increase classroom space and add a fully accessible bathroom are under discussion as well.
Additionally, Frederic Arts provides free events to encourage awareness and appreciation for the creative process through exposure to art-based programming such as displays, exhibitions, and public art installations, as well as in-house and outdoor music concerts featuring area performers. Frederic Arts has introduced several new art appreciation programs in its fifteenth year, and we want to celebrate our continued growth, due in large part to the expanding participation and support of the community. Everyone is encouraged to drop by the Arts Center on Oct. 20 to enjoy the festivities.
Frederic Arts is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) educational nonprofit financially supported by membership dues, donations, grants and fundraising activities. Frederic Arts welcomes new members, volunteers, and financial donations to support its mission.
