by Winfield DrayRepresentatives of several local arts organizations met last Thursday at the Kent State East Liverpool Campus to discuss ways to cooperate rather than compete for resources.
The meeting was organized by Susan Weaver, director of library services at KSU-EL and chair of the Ohio Valley Regional Arts Council. Representatives of OVRAC, Shining Reflections, Potters Players, and Tri-State Arts Council joined individual artists and patrons of the arts to share problems and seek solutions through cooperation.
Weaver believes that unity of purpose in the areas of funding, facilities, and mutual support are worth exploring.
“The dream here is to combine (those) interested in the arts to make East Liverpool a center for the arts,” she said.
Everyone agreed that one of the biggest obstacles facing all arts organizations is locating and obtaining funding through grants. For example, Potters Players acquired Wellsville’s Liberty Theater several years ago, but restoration has been severely hindered by lack of funding. As well, the organization lacks members with the background and time to devote to grant research.
Weaver agreed to contact the Ohio Arts Council and request that a representative attend the group’s next meeting to provide information on grants and other issues. The date for that meeting has yet to be announced pending a reply from the state.
Anyone interested in promoting the visual, performing, or literary arts is welcome to attend. The date and time will be posted here at Eastern Flash when confirmed.
