FROM THE DIRECTOR

At dinner the other night a friend said, "What are you working on right now?" My answer was heavily invested in numbers: budgets, grants, donations, dollars and cents. With a slight attitude the next question was, "Well, you could be running a widget factory. Where's the art?"

In fact, right now the Guilford Art Center, like all non-profits, businesses, families, individuals, and that widget factory, is very focused on finances. No one is certain about the economy. But, the question, "Where's the art?" is a very good one. Maybe it is just a bit frivolous to spend money on an art class, buy a piece of finely crafted art, or make a donation to the arts in these times. Maybe it is better to stay home and save the gas rather than going to see an exhibition. Maybe art doesn't matter so much right now. Can art really make a difference right now?

Perhaps. Here are a few of the reasons. Art embraces spirit, intellect, and imagination. It has the potential to provide a respite from our very real concerns. Think about picking just one piece of art and taking the time to discover the layers of meaning or trace an idea. What an adventure. It's about enjoying the pleasure of discovery bit by bit, thought by thought. Then there is the difference between knowing something through experience and reading about it. Art often resonates in a way words cannot not. These kinds of experiences are very powerful in an "ah-ha' sort of way. They have been known to cause one to reconsider, challenging personal assumptions about the world and how to live one's life. Wouldn't some new ideas or a new approach bring a breath of fresh air? Art can also stir the memory of experiences, letting us rediscover things about ourselves we may have misplaced or undervalued. Why not embrace talents or explore ideas that once fired your imagination and intellect that have been sidelined as time has passed? It could be an invigorating experience. When it comes to making art, it is all about taking risks and there isn't a down side. Sure there is technique that once learned helps you get there. But what about doing something that consistently rewards risk taking? What does it feel like to dare your self? Exhilarating? Last, you already know art is frequently beautiful and a pleasure to be with.

But here's the deal. Art can only make a difference if you let it. You have to involve your self. Reading this won't do it. Art has the potential to change your life for the better in ways both small and large. The choice is yours. Take a class. Buy a piece of art that thrills you. See an exhibition. Make a donation. The art is where you let it be. I hope you keep it close.

Jean Perkins
Executive Director