End of Year Report

 

“At the end of last year we conducted a member and community leader assessment survey to find out what they wanted for the Art Center and in line with their suggestions we created new events, exhibits and workshops,” says Marie Maguire, Executive Director of the South Haven Center for the Arts.”

 

Since making a variety of changes, the Art Center has blossomed into a greater arts’ hub for the community, according to Maguire, who observes, “The Art Center is becoming a more sought out destination by local residents and people from surrounding areas. We want the Center to be a place where people of all ages can find joy in the arts whether it’s through a class, workshop, exhibit or a social event. We want them to feel welcome when they walk through the door.”

 

New activities held in 2009 were: an Artist Book Club, an Art Club for high school students, Monster Bash, St. Patrick’s Family Party, Fun Dance Fridays, held downtown during the summer months, SoHa Art Walk, involving area art galleries, Dog Days of Summer, interactive exhibit in conjunction with Al-Van Humane Society, a Now Environmental Sculpture Exhibit, a Hair Art Exhibit, and featured this month a first of its kind fiber art exhibit, displaying works of renowned regional fiber artists.

 

Events in planning stages for 2010 include a first annual Regional Juried Exhibit, an Artists Market, a Creative Kids’ preschool program, several family music and dance events and a lineup of new classes and workshops.

 

Maguire is also pleased that the Art Center has partnered with Foundry Hall saying that the partnership helps both organizations expand their horizons.

 

Maguire says she looks forward to giving a positive report to members at the upcoming Annual Meeting, Dec. 17 at Lake Michigan College, South Haven campus. “I am excited to be working with a supportive board, creative staff, enthusiastic members of the Art Center and a community that embraces the arts. I am also deeply grateful for our dedicated volunteers whose diligent work and support make our growth possible.”

 

South Haven Center for the Arts, 600 Phoenix St., is open Monday, noon to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 1 to 4 p.m. Drop in and shop at the festive holiday market for special holiday gifts. Market (also open on Sunday) closes Dec. 13. Call 269-637-1041 for more information, or visit www.southhavenarts.org