Lufkin Creative moves forward to improve city art culture
LUFKIN, Texas (KTRE) – Lufkin Creative is a non-profit art organization aiming to highlight the arts in their area.
The organization’s application to officially become a cultural arts district was denied by the Texas Commission on the Arts last year but are working on the next steps.
“That’s what makes the grass green. That’s what makes the air smell sweet. That’s the enrichment that we have,” says Naranjo Museum of Natural History executive director Erin Gentry.
According to Gentry, in the last few months, the museum has seen growth of interest as they offer different activities for the public.
“You can come and learn about a multitude of things in a multitude of ways. So we’re seeing a lot of maker spaces pop up in museums where people can come and create,” explained Gentry.
Lufkin Creative co-chair Sally Alvis believes many individuals discovered an artistic talent during the 2020 pandemic
“People had time and space to explore that and so we have seen several artists and groups coming together holding workshops and studio times,” said Alvis.
Lufkin Creative filled out its first application to become a cultural arts district last year.
These districts can be focal points for generating business, attracting tourists, and stimulating cultural development.
“You want to see artists, and galleries, and beautiful murals like the one behind us and public art,” said co-chair Becca Chance.
Chance explained they were denied due to open leadership positions and missing designated space for all art groups. As of Tuesday, Chance says they are actively working alongside dozens of their community art groups on strategic planning to collaborate and seek funding.
“We’re actually laying a foundation. Laying a path for what we’re going to do in the next two years which is super exciting,” said Chance
Gentry believes it’s a great time to see the city flourish in its arts but it can’t be done alone.
“We all reach different aspects of the community but we need each other to reach our full potential,” said Gentry.
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