Arrowmont Task Force Presents Findings To Board Of Governors

May 18, 2010 - PRLog -- GATLINBURG, TN – The task force charged with investigating the options for the future location of the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts presented its preliminary findings to the school’s Board of Governors during their two-day meeting on the Arrowmont campus.  Board members were given the opportunity to visit proposed sites and to discuss the viability of each community’s proposal.  The Board of Governors made significant progress toward determining the future location of Arrowmont.  They affirmed that they are on track as planned to make a final decision in August.

The board reiterated that the Pi Beta Phi Fraternity has agreed to extend the current lease through August, 2012.  This action assures that all planned workshops, exhibitions and other programs will continue without interruption.  The 2010 workshops will begin May 30 and continue for 19 weeks.  The calendar for 2011 and 2012 workshops, exhibitions and symposiums is already planned or in the process of being confirmed.

In January, the Executive Committee of the Arrowmont Board of Governors appointed the Site Task Force to evaluate the viability of relocating the school to Knoxville or Greeneville or remaining in their current Gatlinburg location.  In stating their priorities for the future of the school, the Board of Governors said ownership of the land and long term sustainable community support were the critical factors. Last month, officials in each community presented their formal proposals to the task force.

For each location under consideration, the task force reviewed the financial implications, infrastructure, opportunities for partnerships and collaboration, accessibility and community support that are in keeping with the school’s mission and vision.  “On behalf of the Board of Governors, I want to thank each community for their hospitality and cooperation in helping us with this critical decision for Arrowmont as we plan for the next century of growth and success,” said board chair Mary Ann Hruska.

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About Arrowmont
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts is a nationally renowned arts center that offers an artist in residence program and one, two-week and weekend workshops in ceramics, fiber, metals, glass, painting, mixed media, and woodworking for the beginner to advanced artist. Students learn in professionally equipped studios on a 14-acre residential campus in Gatlinburg, TN. Five galleries, an art supply store, and artist resource center are open visitors year round. For more information about Arrowmont’s programs, visit www.arrowmont.org or call (865) 436-5860.