Launch imminent for Art Center campaign

The effort by the Fort Smith Art Center to raise $200,000 to secure a building donation from Arvest Bank is ready to kick into high gear, according to Art Center volunteer Maggie Malloy.

Arvest Bank in early January donated a former branch bank facility — acquired in its $211 million purchase of Superior Federal Bank in late 2003 — at 1601 Rogers Ave. to the Fort Smith Art Center so that center officials can expand their space to exhibit art, photos and provide other services.

The donation, however, is contingent upon art center officials raising $200,000 by June 1.

“We have actually had few donations considering the big scale, because of the fact that we have been on hold with our printed materials,” said Malloy (at right), who is the campaign chair for the fundraising effort.

She said the fundraising packets soon will be distributed to individuals, businesses, and corporations. Malloy and art center staff also will make presentations to potential corporate donors and civic organizations. The fundraising effort will include “community advocacy” that will encourage neighborhoods to collectively raise enough money to “cover the amount necessary for a naming opportunity,” Malloy said.

The Art Center will host a Feb. 24 reception for area art teachers to allow them input for student needs, share future art center plans and discuss potential new programs.

“The enthusiasm runs wide and deep! The donations are forthcoming. Mark my word,” Malloy noted in an e-mail to The City Wire.