Published: May 12, 2008 04:29 pm         

Glade art center opens after lengthy wait

The long wait of over three years was completed on Friday, April 18, as the Art Guild at Fairfield Glade celebrated the grand opening of their new building. Nestled in the woods, with a long spacious entrance walkway, the Plateau Creative Arts Center seemed to beckon art lovers into its double height lobby for the gala reception that evening. Light and music spilled out as visitors, members and friends entered to explore its spaces and view the member artwork displayed in its two galleries. While nibbling on a wide variety of appetizers, celebrants wandered through the 2800 square foot facility, admiring the spacious art library and office area, the large studio-classroom, and the wonderful galleries. Ann Looney and Becky Gentry filled the rooms with music on the grand piano while all admired the unique hand-crafted features, such as the reception desk, the wood mosaic patron wall plaque and even the ceramic washbasins in the bathrooms. Joining the over 300 guests were the architect, Manny Herz from ACHW in Oak Ridge; Hal Danson, the contractor, from Sparta; Howard Robb, the construction manager; and Ray Butkus, president of the Art Guild.

The Art Guild hopes the new facility will further its purpose to enhance and encourage the arts in the community, through scholarships, programs in the schools, classes and workshops, as well as a wide variety of exhibits in the new gallery space. Currently on display is the Spring Show of the members, with Jack Lewis winning the People’s Choice award for his stunning photograph of a colorful sunset. Located at 451 Lakeview Drive, in Fairfield Glade, the PCAC is five miles north on Peavine Road from I-40 exit 322; after a right turn onto Lakeview, another two miles brings one to a left turn at a stop sign and the center’s parking area immediately beyond the pool area. The Art Guild is a nonprofit, equal opportunity provider; people interested in supporting art in our area or wanting to broaden their own artistic efforts are welcome to join the Guild by calling the membership coordinator at 484-4306; or for information about classes, call the center at 707-7249.