Reopening of Art Center welcome news
A well-known community landmark, the Butler Art Center, seemed to be in dire straits not long ago after a boiler failure forced a prolonged closure.
At the time, we expressed deep concern over the potential loss of the center and the cultural element it brings to the county. It has real value as a place for artists to showcase their work in a proper setting and earn respect — and possibly money — for their talents.
Luckily, the center seems to have weathered the storm.
We were pleased to report on the Associated Artists of Butler County’s first show of the year on Wednesday, “Then and Now,” which features new and old pieces by artists who have exhibited their work at the center before.
Joyce Ann Schnur, art center board member, said it was “invigorating and hopeful” to see the gallery open once again.
There’s more reason to be hopeful now than ever.
Staff reported Monday that Terrance Kaiserman, who founded a technology patent company in New York and has resided in Butler for more than a decade, had the idea to start a coffee company that employs people with disabilities. That company, Butler Coffee Lab, is now partnering with the art center.
While Kaiserman works on creating a permanent space on West Cunningham Street, Butler Coffee Lab will debut at the Butler Art Center’s grand reopening gallery reception on Friday evening at 344 S. Main St.
Terry Hagan, a center past president, said it will be a game changer for the area’s art community.
It’s uplifting to see yet another example of people in this community coming together to help one another and preserve culture, especially when preventing the humanities from being cast aside is becoming increasingly difficult.
Time and again, the people of this county have proved their ability to make things happen, and we’re privileged to deliver the news.
The “Then and Now” display will be up through April 8. Stop in and see the benefits of collaboration, coffee and creativity.
— CM
