Lori Brack has experience working in programs and publications impacting the arts community in Kansas. She recently submitted an article about the Lincoln Art Center for the opinion section of The Kansas Reflector.
Brack described Joyce Harlow’s creation of the Lincoln Art Center in 1992; she said the project was inspired by her wanting to give back to the community. It has been in operation for over 30 years and has an influence on the entire state.
Harlow is a painter and professional photography. Her art studio was in Lincoln and she pitched the idea for the arts center to be developed in the city.
“I thought if nobody in Wichita can do this, I’m going to show them I can do this in Lincoln, a town of 1,500 people” Harlow said.
The Center has a storefront that was purchased with donations and renovated by volunteers. It became a popular location for exhibiting sculpture, photography, textiles and paintings. It also showcases works by student artists.
Artist Linda Foster appreciates the art center’s community feel.
“Two artists who exhibited recently said something I often hear: ‘You don’t know how fortunate you are to have a beautiful space like this.’ It is a beautiful space,” Foster said. “You’ve got this old building that’s been preserved and is being used, has a new life, brings people into the community.”
Each exhibition “is a jumping-off point to make connections in Lincoln,” Harlow added. “I like to find artists who are ready to try something new in a new space. It’s about our visitors to come and look, to appeal to a wide audience.”