Reggie Harrison thinks the Orion Art Center is a community jewel’but she hopes it’s not about to become a buried treasure.
With the economy continuing to push homes into foreclosure and drive businesses belly-up, the OAC is seeing its share of funding woes.
‘This year has been tough for us, much as it’s been tough year everyone,? said Harrison, who’s served since 1991 as the center’s executive director. ‘We lost a few grants, funding is drying up and it’s to the point where the situation is critical. We have no money. We really need some help.?
Since its inception some 30 years ago, the art center has sustained itself through sponsorships, memberships and grants, she said, noting the center has essentially broken even with the last few events it sponsored in the community.
Out in the community, she said, people want to help. But some just can’t.
‘One person said to me, ‘Yes, the arts are important, but right now it’s more important to help keep people fed, and help them keep the lights on,?? she said.
But just as the community came together 30 years ago to establish the OAC when a small group of artist women were driven to make it happen, Harrison is hoping the community will come together again.
Although the OAC is a non-profit organization and not aimed at generating revenue, it does need money for operational costs, Harrison said, noting she’s worked without pay for several months.
‘I have a passion for the art center,? she said. ‘I believe it’s an important part of the community. I don’t want to close the doors and walk away, but I’ve volunteered a lot of time and you can only do that so long.?
How long?
Harrison doesn’t know, but she’s not ready to give up yet and continues to pursue new sources of funding.
She’s also hoping a newly installed board will bring fresh ideas and new life to the center.
‘I want to empower the new board to step up and participate in the rebirth of the art center,? Harrison said. ‘A good friend once told me ‘Art feeds your soul.? All these things are going on in the world, but art touches everyone. It’s an important part of your life.?
And, she added, those seeds are best planted in childhood.
‘We’ve had a great relationship with the schools over the years,? said Harrison, who has three grown children of her own.
‘Everyone needs art, but children are the most important because they’re they future; there’s nothing more fulfilling than to see kids working on an art project and bubbling with enthusiasm and creative energy, and knowing we’re putting really important seeds in place.?