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| Cultural
Center - History |
| The
history of the Sandusky Cultural Center is similar to the artistic
evolution of our community. It Began with the vision and energy of
Frank Smith, who saw the Center's creation "lead to a greater
role for Art in our community," and progressed for thirty-five
years through the dedication and continued efforts of past and present
board members, Center staff and countless artists, friends and gallery
visitors. |
| The
early shows, which began in September 1967, ranged widely from the
work of local school children to traveling exhibits loaned by or rented
at nominal fees from organizations such as the Smithsonian. In the
first years, the Dutch family donated a fountain that became the logo
of the center for many years. This fountain remains in the Off Center
gallery at present. |
| Coupled
with the growing public support was a gradual broadening of the work
presented by the Center. Shows of local and regional artists began
to replace traveling and loaned shows. By 1972 and 1973, the Center
was attracting acclaimed artists from a wider area. |
| The
evolutionary process has continued for the pat fifteen years under
the Directorship of Charles T. Mayer, a former student of the assistant
to Frank Smith. Mr. Mayer has adhered to the mission of presenting
"a wide variety of exhibits, some of which are meant to be education
and all of which are meant to be appealing as well." THis mission
was further defined in 1993: "With awareness of cultural diversity
and the positive values of artistic regionalism, the Sandusky Cultural
Center will provide educational and entertaining exhibits that stimulate
an interest in the fine arts, provide a focus for multi-cultural awareness,
and introduce complex issues and challenging concepts." |
| It
is finally the redemptive quality of Art, of creating something from
disparate elements, that makes it an essential part of our lives.
The first thirty-five years of Sandusky Cultural Center can best be
described by the title of one of its shows, "The Whole is Greater
then the Sum of its Parts." From the host of Artist, Friends,
volunteers, board members, staff and the vision of two talented directors,
has come a rich and complex tradition of artistic and educational
excellence that is one of the area's greatest assets. While the Center's
reputation in the professional community continues to grow, its future
will ultimately be assured by the continued interest and support of
gallery visitors. |
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