The Brownwood Art Association received funds of a $23,000 community development grant provided by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) on Wednesday, June 22, 2011 which will be used for remodeling of the Art Center located at 215 Fisk Avenue.
The community grant is one of a number of grants recently awarded through LCRA’s Community Development Partnership Program. The program provides economic development and community assistance grants to cities, counties, volunteer fire departments, regional development councils, and other nonprofit organizations in LCRA’s electric and water service areas. The program is part of LCRA’s effort to give back to the communities it serves.
Lori LeBlue of LCRA presented the check to current president and the project’s general contractor Kit Timmins at the Art Center. The grant money will be used for the electrical work to improve energy efficiency which is currently underway. Demolition of the drop ceiling, opening up the ceiling to the original height of years ago has been completed.
“The center will be a more functional and enjoyable place for holding continuous exhibits by area artists and for providing workshops/educational activities,” said Timmins. “More energy-efficient systems will enable the art center to be open more often due to the reduction in electric bills, and the savings can be applied to activities and programs for the community.”
Member Suzy Lewis recounted that the Art Center building was donated to the Art Association by the late Nancy Lee whose mother was a very involved member of the Art Association in the 1930s.
“She would be so happy to know this would be happening,” stated Lewis referring to Ms. Lee.
During the last several years, the association has held many fundraisers in an effort to complete the renovation project of the Art Center.
Those interested in contributing to the renovation effort can visit www.BrownwoodArt.com for more information.
Pictured above (left to right) are: Lori LeBlue of LCRA presenting the grant money to Kit Timmins and board members Melanie Naylor, Iris Rudeseal, Pat Coursey, and Jody Cox.