'Keep the Dream Alive' at Arts on Grand

-Live telethon on SMU channel 3 to support ongoing AOG programming-

Arts on Grand is asking the community to call in during their fund-raising telethon held live on SMU Channel 3 1-5 p.m., April 6. The telethon is part of a fund-raising blitz dubbed "Keep the Dream Alive," which is aimed at raising $20,000 for operational funds for Arts on Grand.

"The generosity and support of the people and businesses in Spencer and the entire Corridor area is critical for the organization at this moment. If ever there was a time to help out by making a pledge or renewing membership, that time is now," Spencer Area Arts Council member Jill Barr said.

During the live telethon event on SMU Channel 3, Curtis Dean will host live interviews with area residents as well as artists. Also, award-winning singer/songwriter Chad Elliott will perform music from his latest album, "Swiftsure." This will be the television debut of new songs by Elliott, who was the winner of FolkAlley.com's Open Mic Finals in 2006 as well as a Top 20 New Folk Songs nominee chosen from 300,000 songs by Just Plain Folks. There will also be live demonstrations of art.

"We want to showcase what Arts on Grand is all about," Barr said, "and give you a reason to call in. Maybe you'll learn something you didn't know before. We are aiming to educate and entertain. I have heard that there may be some friendly donor challenges or competitions announced--it'll be fun to watch."

Arts on Grand is a gallery space, a place for live music, children's and adult art classes, art camps, a pottery studio open to any member and outreach programs through area schools. Arts on Grand was an important part of bringing excellent additions to the community such as Bogenrief Studio, the Curiel Reynolds School of Visual Arts and artists such as Chad Elliott, Anita Gilbert and Anthony Vodraska.

"How fortunate we are to cultivate and attract such talent," Barr said. "This area has artists and opportunities that bigger cities envy. It is so important that Arts on Grand remains a viable part of our community."

A basic membership to Arts on Grand is only $25 for an individual and $10 for a student. A family can become a member of Arts on Grand for just $35 and an artist can join for $15. The Keep the Dream Alive fund-raising blitz will be seeking donations on several levels including basic membership. The donation levels include Friends at $50, Contributors at $100, Donors at $250 and Patrons at $500. Any donation amount is appreciated and one lucky donor will win a beautiful bowl donated by Bogenrief Studio. The goal of the blitz is to raise $20,000 toward operational funds.

"The arts touch people in so many different ways. We hope to make that connection and inspire you to make a pledge. We'll cherish gifts of any size. Arts on Grand is but a piece of the big 'Arts Community' puzzle. The puzzle is not complete with a missing piece,'" Barr said.

To donate funds to Arts on Grand, please call 262-4307 or stop by the gallery at 408 Grand Ave., Spencer. Learn more about available classes and exhibits at www.artsongrand.org.

* Arts on Grand is a fine art gallery and home to the Spencer Area Arts Council, a non-profit organization founded in 1979. Arts on Grand is an ArtsLIVE partner.