Newport
On Saturday, at an airport hangar at Parlin Field, the nonprofit organization will hold a dinner, dance and celebration. Admission is $50 per person.
“Costume is optional but a lot of people have been getting into the ’60s dress,” said Kate Luppold, the director of the Library Arts Center. “It’s a very funky setting. It’s going to be very fun.”
The Old Courthouse Restaurant, which is catering the dance, has even gotten in on the anniversary theme.
“They’re coming up with a ’60s-themed menu,” Luppold said.
The arts center has been celebrating the entire year with other 1960s-themed events, including a family tie-dye party, a macrame jewelry workshop and a ’60s film series.
“It’s been a big year of celebration for us,” Luppold said.
The center holds open studios and art exhibits. Annual events, such as the Apple Pie Crafts Fair, peeps diorama contest and Gallery of Gifts, have become community mainstays.
“We have performances, films, lectures and a rotation of art exhibits year-round,” Luppold said. “Classes are very popular with a wide range of people, from little children to beginner painters and advanced artists.”
Fun Facts
Here are five facts about the Library Arts Center that most people may not know (as compiled by the library staff):
The Library Arts Center was formed 50 years ago, the vision of founder Margorie Dorr and work of many in the community.
The Library Arts Center is housed in an old carriage house, which was completely remodeled in the ’60s from barn to gallery, performance space and classroom studio.
This year alone, the Library Arts Center is presenting 17 performances, 14 films, 8 gallery exhibits and 106 art classes and workshops.
The Library Arts Center is showcasing 326 local artists and craftspeople in its professional venue, to display and sell their work this year.
There are more than 200 volunteers who help with all aspects of the Arts Center annually.
Editor’s note: Tickets for the birthday celebration must be purchased by Tuesday and are available at the Library Arts Center and libraryartscenter.org. Liz Sauchelli can be reached at esauchelli@vnews.com or 603-727-3221.
