Kelly Grows Again!

At the Faces and Forms reception, Kelly President Belyn Richardson revealed a stunning surprise. The Kelly will be moving again to a much larger location just around the corner. Truly, the Board jumped at the fabulous opportunity to acquire the “old driver’s license building” perpendicular to Coaches Corner and right beside the river. It has plenty of parking and “three times the amount of space of the current Kelly Gallery,” according to our very exited curator, Jennifer Eifert.

One on-going issue has been the inadequate amount of storage space in the Company Street building. While serving to provide beautiful exhibits, storage of The Kelly’s large permanent collection has been difficult. While fun, the receptions have been crowded.

The Kelly has added educational classes for children and work days for member artists. Many meetings are held and need space. Clearly, there has been need for expansion.

A sneak peek at the tentative plans for this new building shows exciting improvements with not only more storage but workshop space and a museum shop, maybe even a big back porch overlooking the river and bridge. What an exciting next year this will be as we plan ahead for the renovations.

The Kelly is non-profit and relies heavily on grants, corporate sponsors and membership donations. Remember that the space can be rented, providing more income. In fact, it’s already been used for meetings, a class reunion and this past weekend, even a wedding. Keep it in mind and continue your generous support as The Kelly reaches out to serve as a better community art center.