Fort Smith Art Center meeting fundraising requirement
by May 23, 2009 9:19 am 54 views
The capital campaign for the renovation of a new facility to house the Fort Smith Art Center has received donations and pledges “far in excess” of $225,000, according to Art Center Director Teresa Carver.
Carver, in a May 22 statement, said this week a check for $25,000 was received, along with a pledge of $100,000. The art center announced in late April a $25,000 donation from Hanna Oil & Gas.
Arvest Bank donated a former branch bank at 1601 Rogers Ave. — acquired in its $211 million purchase of Superior Federal Bank in late 2003 — to the Fort Smith Art Center in early January so center officials can expand their space to exhibit art, photos and provide other services. The donation was contingent upon art center officials raising $200,000 by June 1.
Architectural drawings and specifications have begun on the new building, and construction is hoped to begin in early fall, 2009. Carver said the Art Center board and staff hope to begin the work by summer’s end, and be in the building by Spring of 2010.
Carver said the existing art center building at 423 N. Sixth St. in the Belle Grove Historic District in downtown Fort Smith is under negotiations to be sold.