From the desk of Amy Neill, Director of Education

AMY NEILL

As we wrap up in 2020, we can now see how much we learned from its challenges and look forward to sharing its silver linings with you in 2021! “All the Arts for All of Us” means more now than it ever did before. Our Enhanced Access to Education Project (generously funded by private donors, the Kelly Foundation, and the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation) will not only continue to offer online classes and workshops but will soon feature lectures, gallery tours, demonstrations, and more, both through ZOOM and a new subscription service that will allow users to enjoy an archive of classes and other educational opportunities at their own pace.

This platform will enable our incredible instructors to reach a broader audience, and it will allow us to expand our faculty to include many new highly qualified artist instructors from far beyond the bridges. This project therefore serves both the student and the instructor. What makes this program extra special is that we can provide free access to at-risk populations so they can participate from home, school, or partner organizations in the health and human services. This is an exciting upgrade to our Rise and Shine program, which provides free mentorships and workshops to those in need. And it will allow us to accommodate all levels of ability more easily because a given digital class can include many more students, including those with special needs and challenges.

Community means everything to us at the Cultural Center. And we know you feel it when you walk through our doors. From learning from the best of the best, to getting down with a fun DIY project, our classes aim for inclusivity. We hope that, in 2021, they’ll include you.

We look forward to seeing you in the new year!

Please note the Cultural Center is currently closed and will reopen to the public on January 5th.

If you haven’t made a 2020 gift to the Cultural Center, now is the time. 

This year you may choose to use the above-the-line charitable deduction as everyone is entitled to a charitable deduction this year.

Typically, there is no tax benefit for giving to charity unless you itemize deductions. However, the CARES Act created an above-the- line deduction of up to $300 for cash contributions from taxpayers who don’t itemize.

If you would like to take advantage of this provision, make sure to donate before the end of the year. 

Click here to make a year-end gift

Your support is much appreciated. We hope you are all staying cozy and safe, and we look forward to seeing you in 2021!

Bob, Lauren, Amy, Meg, Laura, Becky, and Molly

HIGHLIGHT

Third Thursday of each month from 6:30-8:30pm

Figure Painting & Drawing

With Sarah Holl

In this class, students can practice their drawing or painting skills while working from a live model. Students will be encouraged to find their own voices and explore various mediums. Students will receive individual instruction as well as group critiques. Open to all levels of experience. Registration is required.

Socially distanced | Mask Required

$25 per person

Please register for the January 21 class

THANK YOU.