Visual Arts Center in Punta Gorda -- Episode 1

When  deciding where we wanted to live next once my husband and I had made the decision to move from Naples, one of my concerns was finding a place where I could explore some of things I had put on hold during my years in  full-career mode.  Art was a biggie. So discovering the Visual Arts Center, a short 10-minute drive from the lot we were thinking of building on in Punta Gorda,was part of what sealed my decision.  

Almost seven years later, I walk  into the center on Maud to start a new class with Ron Sanders in portrait painting.  The building is bustling with activity.  People are touring the galleries or heading off to various classes in drawing, painting, pottery, stained-glass and jewelry making, art appreciation and more.  The halls are teaming with energy and excitement.  

"We are seeing more people taking classes and coming in to view our exhibits this year," Michele Valencourt, the Executive Director of the VAC tells me.  "We do need more volunteers and donners to help with this growing demand."   While the economic downturn and the stress it has brought may be one of the reasons more people are flocking to places like the VAC, Ms. Valencourt  attributes the increase to awareness of the VAC and growth of the community as well.  

While waiting for my class to start I wander around the center, visit the relocated and expanded Pottery Studio (more on that to come) and check out a portrait studio, which runs from 9 to noon on Thursdays and is open to anyone wishing to improve their skills for an artist fee which varies.  About  10 artists sketch or compose in a variety of media -- oil, watercolor, pastel.  The participants are very friendly and invite me to come join the group--I just may do that.  

There's lots coming up at the VAC in coming weeks, and new classes start about every seven weeks.  For more information, go to http://www.visualartcenter.org.  And watch for my future Blogs about the Visual Arts Center and its artists.