Lumberyard Arts Center showcases local artists

Story by Victoria Bostick, Writer

On Friday, the Baldwin City Lumberyard Arts Center held an art walk and artists reception. The artwork showcased during the event included pieces created by local artists Roger Spohn and Krista McClenahan.

“Both of them we decided would make a great show together because they compliment one another,” Gallery Director Paula Johnson said. “He is a landscape photographer and she is a wildlife and still life acrylic (painter).”

Every four to six weeks, the center has a new opening featuring different local artists. These events take place on Fridays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The showings are open to the public and anyone interested in viewing the artwork. According to Johnson, a committee of three people look over artist portfolios and select who will be featured at each event.

“Roger’s work is hanging at the Watkins Museum in Lawrence,” Johnson said. “My husband and I went through there and saw his work and so I contacted him and asked him to show here.”

The second part of the evening was the outdoor art walk. Four of these occur over the months of June, July, August and September on the third Friday of each month. Jenna Dick, who volunteers her time for the event, coordinates the art walk and lets potential vendors know in advance what night the event will take place.

“Each art walk is usually themed, and this one was ‘Cup of Java’ so we had handmade mugs, coffee and baked goods,” Dick said.

Funds raised from the art walk will go toward the performing arts theatre inside the center as well as upkeep on the building.

Sherry Bowden sits on the board of directors for the Lumberyard Arts Center and serves as president.

“Everything here is volunteer, the board is volunteer,” Bowden said. “We do not have any paid staff whatsoever so a lot of our fundraising is really just to keep the building [open].”

The building is also available to be rented for events.

“People can rent [the building] for activities like sorority events, parties, wedding receptions. It’s a great spot,” Dick said.

To inquire about renting the facility or to check out upcoming events, check out the center’s website. Spohn and McClenahan’s pieces will be up in the Lumberyard Arts Center gallery until Oct. 11.