September 2008 Letter from the Board President

Dear Supporter of the Arts:

The arts bring entertainment, relaxation and enjoyment to our busy lives.  The arts preserve our past and inform our future.  The arts celebrate both diversity and cultural uniqueness.  The arts enhance the quality of life in our community.  Ottumwa Area Arts Council would like to share our 2008-2009 activities with you and ask for your support.

Early in 2008 Ottumwa Area Arts Council sponsored photographer Ty Smedes’ lecture during Wapello County Trails Council’s annual Eagle Walk.  This summer we sponsored Art in the Park as part of the Summer Recreation program.  Area artist Mary Beth Heikes taught participants the techniques of Japanese brush painting, and also shared her unique collage style with Prime Time Youth Care.  Watch for the children’s activities sponsored by Ottumwa Area Arts Council on September 6 at Main Street Ottumwa’s Walk on Art Street.  Ottumwa Area Arts Council is a proud sponsor for the 2008-2009 season at Bridge View Center.  Residencies and workshops are planned to accompany many of the ticketed events. 

Humanities Iowa recently awarded Ottumwa Area Arts Council a matching grant to fund the first annual film and lecture series titled ORDINARY PEOPLE DOING EXTRAORDINARY THINGS.  See our calendar for a schedule of these activities.  Plan to attend the first event on September 7, 2:00 PM at Bridge View Center. Welcome the Ottumwa premiere of the documentary THIS AMERICAN GOTHIC and share in celebrating the spirit of Eldon, Iowa.

Please join the Ottumwa Area Arts Council Board of Directors in supporting the arts in the Ottumwa region.  Each board member has pledged financial support for this year’s fund drive.  Your contribution is vital for additional events to be planned in 2009.

There is no better time to strengthen the arts than NOW.  Ottumwa Area Arts Council is funded by your donations and matching grants.  We hope to see you at these community events. Thank you for your generosity.

Sincerely, 

Deb Cramblit, President
Ottumwa Area Arts Council