5 minute read
Power to Connect
by Meghan Bias, Executive Director, Art Center Waco
The mission of Art Center Waco is to serve as a creative force in the community for teaching, displaying, promoting, and preserving vital, diverse visual arts that enrich and inspire our community.
At the heart of our philosophy is the conviction that art has the power to heal and connect. Art Center Waco is not just a venue for artistic display; it is a sanctuary for growth, expression, and learning. Through our exhibits and educational programs, we facilitate human connections and foster personal development.
Our gallery doors are open to all, free of charge, reinforcing our belief that art is for everyone. We curate and present thought-provoking exhibitions that spark dialogue, inspire artistic expression and celebrate local artists and arts organizations. Our commitment to showcasing a tapestry of diverse artwork creates a platform for meaningful conversations and a window into varied perspectives.
As Executive Director of Art Center Waco, I have the privilege of advocating for and promoting the importance of the arts in our community. My journey into this position has been shaped by my love and need for creativity in my life. I find solace in films and books, solidarity in music, and my soul’s purpose through visual art. I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Studio Art and Art History from Sul Ross State University and a Master of Arts degree in Museum Science and Art History from Texas Tech University. It is a courageous thing to be an artist of any kind. I am proud to work for an organization that celebrates artistic bravery. My vision for Art Center Waco is for everyone in the community to feel welcomed and celebrated. We truly do believe that art is for everyone!
When the world is moving at such a fast pace, art allows us to slow down. Creativity is something that we are all born with, and the expression of that creativity is vital to the mental and emotional development of all people. You don’t have to be an artist or have a formal arts education to appreciate it. Art is part of our everyday lives, but it is so easily taken for granted. Every logo, coffee cup, house, car, and all technology we use comes from human creativity and is told through different means and mediums of artistic expression.
Human beings are storytellers by nature, and sharing those stories and experiences is what keeps us connected. Empathy and compassion are born from understanding and acceptance. I believe that art creates space for that; it is a place where stories and truths are told. Art is incredibly powerful. It can unify communities and strengthen the economy. Art sparks innovation and improves academic performance. Art has long been the visual record for all of human history.
Art Center Waco is, first and foremost, a community art center. Our relationship with the community of Waco is vital to our success. Our mission is at the heart of all we do. We know how important it is to grow and evolve with the community, and our programs and exhibits reflect that evolution.
We offer Saturday children’s art classes, summer and winter camps, adult and teen workshops, and free family programming. Our children’s mental health and emotional well-being can be nurtured through artistic expression and Art Center Waco provides that space and instruction. Expression is such an essential part of the human existence. The creative space is where we best express our authentic selves. Art Center Waco is a place where people can feel safe and free to express themselves while learning new artistic skills.
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, fundraising and development are vital to the longevity of our programs and exhibits. We utilize several avenues to support our programs and operations. We offer memberships that range in levels and price. Donations and grants are also a pivotal piece of our sustainability. All of these efforts ensure that we will continue serving Waco for years to come.
Art Center Waco has stood as a beacon of creativity, dedicated to the cultivation, celebration, and preservation of the visual arts for over 50 years. We are committed to enriching the cultural fabric of our community through immersive experiences in art education, dynamic exhibitions, and collaborative ventures. We are excited to share our exhibits with the community in our main galleries at Art Center Waco, 701 S. 8th Street. Be sure to follow us on our social media and check out our website to stay up to date on all of our programs and exhibits. At Art Center Waco, art is for everyone, and all are welcome! We look forward to seeing you in the gallery soon.
