Welcome to the Small Surprise Spotlight, presented by Alamance County Visitors Bureau. We’re uncovering hidden gems in Alamance County that might be closer than you think!
In November’s feature, Alamance Arts invites readers to explore the life and art of Charles M. Schulz in a special holiday-themed exhibit. Recently, we touched base with Associate Director Kim Willard and other staff at Alamance Arts to learn more about their work, and this exciting experience.
Alamance Arts is comprised of a small staff who have worked there for a varying amount of time and have various experiences and perspectives. Answers to the questions below are taken from responses by staff.
1. How long has Alamance Arts been serving Alamance County, and how do you accomplish your mission?
The Alamance Arts Council was established in November of 1956, but there is little written information about its beginnings. It wasn’t until 1998 that the Arts Council moved to its current location at 213 S. Main Street in Graham – the former Captain James and Emma White Holt House. Alamance Arts fulfills its mission by working to make art a tangible presence in the lives of Alamance County residents and making art accessible to all through a wide array of programming and offerings provided at little or no cost thanks to the support of donors who help us keep the mission alive.
2. Why is Alamance County such a great place for local arts?
Arts are growing in Alamance County, just as the county grows. There is a rich folk-art culture here, as we are located in an area that is comprised of small farm towns and traditions. But we are also attracting new creatives, many who are younger, who are moving to the area due to its affordability and location. There has been a rise in small gallery spaces and shops opening in the area, which also attracts these new artists.
3. What are some the of most popular programs and activities offered by Alamance Arts?
Alamance Arts relies on volunteers to help carry out much of our work. One group of volunteers helps to coordinate “Family Fun” programming, which includes creating craft kits for kids that are placed on our front porch each week and made available to the community for free. These volunteers also often go out into the community at municipal events to share creating with kids and families. Our exhibits rotate out throughout our facility every 12-weeks and our focus is on offering exhibits to the community that provoke dialogue and provide education while showcasing the talents of artists in our community. We rarely feature a single artist, opting instead to allow opportunities for exposure to a wider range of styles and talents.
4. What kinds of local activities would you recommend that visitors explore when they visit Alamance County?
Make a day of it and explore the downtown areas of each of our larger towns. Each has its own character and appeal and offers lots of options for shopping, eating and drinking (lots of craft breweries and local coffee shops), entertainment and art – you’ll find public art displays in all our downtown areas including many murals. Given the size of our county and the proximity of our downtowns, you can visit all in a day – Elon, Burlington, Graham, Saxapahaw and Mebane. Just avoid visiting on a Monday – as many small businesses are closed on Monday. Burlington City Park is worth a stop if in Burlington to experience the beautiful Denzel Carousel and metal artwork displayed throughout the park.
5. What is something about Alamance County that most people don’t know?
Most people probably do not know how beautiful parts of our county truly are, as well as how easily accessible the county is and convenient to larger cities to our east and west. Many may not realize the history that this county has with our railroad and historic sites scattered throughout county including Alamance Battleground, Alamance Historical Museum and the Glencoe Textile Heritage Museum, just to name a few. We also have an extensive parks system with great trails and opportunities for those who love the outdoors.
6. What is your favorite initiative led by Alamance Arts?
This question is the one that led to the most varied responses by staff, as we each have a difference favorite. Our Executive Director found our “Eyes on Alamance” exhibit (telling stories about Alamance County and how community members see the county they live in) as a favorite. Our travel coordinator was around during the Chihuly exhibit and has fond memories of it being in town. Our business administrator helped with summer camps a few years ago and enjoyed witnessing the results of what was learned at the conclusion of those camps. And, our Associate Director’s favorite has been coordinating an Ambassador’s Program that ran for 2-years and was possible through grant monies that sent a different artist each week to the Boys & Girls Club after school to help share their art and reason for creating. (Plus, EVERYONE is excited about the upcoming Schulz Exhibit.)
7. Tell us more about the Charles M. Schulz exhibit happening this month, and what attendees can expect to find.
“The Life & Art of Charles M. Schulz” exhibit opens November 2 and runs through January 17, with special preview events on Friday, November 1. The exhibit will be housed at Alamance Arts and is curated by the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, California. The exhibit details the life of Charles Schulz and explains how he came to develop his cast of characters and motivations behind The Peanuts. In addition to photos, bios, cartoon strips and character profiles, the exhibit will also feature “Sparky’s Studio” – an exact replica of Schulz’s work studio. Alamance Arts is excited, as this is the FIRST TIME it has ever been displayed outside of the museum in California. Expect Peanuts merchandise, occasional visits from Snoopy, lots of photo opportunities (including Snoopy’s Doghouse and Lucy’s Psych booth) and activity stations. Cost is only $4 in advance online and $6 at the door. Kids under 5 are free. Tickets and more information can be found at alamancearts.org
Photos by Alamance Arts.
The Small Surprise Spotlight is made possible by Alamance County Visitors Bureau. The towns and villages of Alamance County are full of small surprises – amazing restaurants, beautiful green spaces, unique art, and much more. Which hidden gem will you uncover first?
