The humanities notoriously suffer through economic downturns, but usually just through lack of funding.
The Orion Art Center recently experienced the other effect of bad economic times: crime.
Thieves recently struck the center and made off with money and the center’s camera, according to board president Lisa Cummins.
‘This is clearly a sign of the times,? she said.
Lake Orion police said it appeared someone allegedly broke in through one of the windows of the center, located at 115 S. Anderson Street in downtown Lake Orion. They are still investigating the matter.
Cummins said the robbery was just one more blow in tough times.
‘Our only income is provided by the fundraisers we put on and classes we offer though out the year. We are not supported by the government in any way, and grant funding has been dropped by more than half,? said Cummins.
Reggie Harrison, the center’s executive director, said their big fundraiser, the Snowflake Ball, was a great time, but about $5,000 short of what they usually pull in.
‘We’re struggling as an organization? she said. ‘All of this happens at a time when grant funding is drying up.?
The result?
Less classes and programs in the respective arts offered for people in the Lake Orion community.
‘We do not want to start cutting out classes,? Cummins said. ‘The arts are an important part of life. They allow people to use their imagination, express their talents and find a great healing power though interpretation.?
Cummins and Harrison implore people to stop into the art center, check out their events, join as a member and even take an art class.
Their next big event will be ‘RE-Create,? a new recycled all-media art competition and exhibit next month.
The show encourages entrants of all ages’to see the possibilities with what may otherwise be thrown away.???
There will be over $1,000 in cash prizes in children’s, teen and adult categories.?
Drop off dates for the show are April 16, 17, 18 between 10am-5pm.? The Opening reception and award ceremony will be held on April 22, in observance of Earth Day, and will remain on display at the center through June 18.?
The recycled art show is sponsored by Waste Management- Eagle Valley Recycle and Disposal Facility.’Entry fee is $20 for ages 19 and under and $25 for adult’art center members and $30 for adult guests.
James Viste,? an instructor at the College for Creative Studies will serve as juror.? Prizes will be offered in household categories for kids 12 and under and? teens 13-19.? Adult categories include household