From contributor Monica Wooton
The public is invited on May 21st, 6-9pm, at Magnolia United Church of Christ (MUCC) to: ?Join us for an evening of creativity, artistry, community and fun! Help us design our logo, share your dreams and hopes, volunteer, sign up for classes and meet the board. You will have the opportunity to support the new Magnolia Art Experience (MAX) – bid in our silent auction for inspiring items, meaningful experiences and mystery packages. Learn how you can participate in the life of MAX as a volunteer, artist, instructor and friend. Food will be provided and we will enjoy a selection of local wines at the cash bar,? according to the invitation prepared by volunteers working on the event.
Colleen Monette co-chairs the event with Cindy Whiston. There will be art demonstrations, and food by local caterer Kasper?s. RSVP to the free event through www.brownpapertickets.com. There will be childcare for those over 4. Families are invited to drop off their children at the “imaginazium” to explore multiple stations to sculpt, paint and play with others in a kid?s-inspired arts environment.
The mission of the newly forming 501(C)3 Magnolia Art Experience (MAX) developed by a steering committee and newly formed board is: ?Magnolia?s place for creative arts exploration and expression ? A place where creativity, imagination and the arts flourish, where all are welcome. A safe place to encourage, nurture and develop the artist in each of us.
Becky Robbins, Board member, says she is involved because: ?MAX gives me a place to connect with others around our shared passion of the arts – and through the arts bring community together through creativity, shared experience, collaboration.? In addition, Nancy Gellos, Board member adds: ??MAX will support and encourage our youth through mentorship and creative expression that may not be offered in their schools.?
The Magnolia Art Experience (MAX) was the brain child of Scott Ward, fine artist?and owner of Scott Ward Art. He says ?I noticed what Magnolia had lots of and?what was missing: a community gathering place that encourages art and creativity, provides gallery space for local artists?a dedicated place for classes and community building around all disciplines of art, performance, literary and visual where kids and adults can participate in making art and being inspired by art.?
Ward began networking with others in the art field. A small group of five?set up a booth at last year?s Winterfest to ask other Magnolians what they thought of the idea. ?Over 60 folks responded with ideas, donations, volunteer hours, and great enthusiasm?,? says Colleen Monette, board member and one of the people who did out-reach that night. A free art class was offered for four and raffled off. The winner was selected and called at the next MAX meeting. The winner Jud Hall selected from a number of choices a class in encaustics (hot wax painting) as his prize, his wife and two friends attended. That successful class, taught by Monette, was the first event for MAX.
MUCC will provide the space for fine, literary and performing arts like: art classes, workshops in improve and creativity, writing classes/groups, photography and supportive groups for artists. A gallery space is already set up and local artists are showing their work.
The group began to formalize with regular meetings a year ago. A steering committee made inquiries into becoming a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. A Board of 11 was formed and the paperwork to begin the process of incorporating was completed in January and granted in February. The group has been given non-profit status and the final designation of a 501(c)3 is pending the submission of their by-laws. The group expects it will receive this in a few months when by-laws are finalized and recorded with the State of Washington.
?I?ve been an advocate and arts lobbyist for many years. I have seen firsthand how access to a variety of art experiences for all ages brings quality of life to a community. The grassroots effort to start MAX has involved eclectic neighborhood talent, and that is what excites me to be involved. MAX offerings can touch the creative artist in each of us. I can see the day there is no need to leave Magnolia to experience quality art opportunities,? shares Mary Langholz, Board member.
This summer look for classes?for all ages, with?a variety of offerings, ranging from 1-2 day workshops, to sessions of 6-8 weeks. Have a class you’re dying to take? Suggest it at the open house. Input gathered at the event?will?help MAX leaders?shape future classes.
There will be art themed baskets, special wine, art experiences and art pieces offered in the raffle and silent action. If you would like to donate something for the auction or raffle at the MAX open house please contact Colleen Monette at 206.241.9084 or colleen.monette@yahoo.com.?For more info, contact?Scott Ward at (206) 283-1788, or click here.