April 2, 2009

Dear Festival Goers, Artists and Community,

In light of a declining economy, The Durango Arts Center is refocusing its energies toward sustainable programs in 2009 and beyond. As part of this evaluation of programs and events, the decision has been made to postpone one of our events. The DAC will not hold a 2009 Durango Arts Festival.

The Arts Festival is an engaging celebration of art, an open-air gallery that welcomes the viewer to interpret, reflect upon, and delight in the human experience through works of art. But, it takes a huge amount of resources for us to stage it properly. This year, those resources are better spent planning for a turn-around. This is because entries for and attendance at arts festivals is dropping precipitously across the country. Aware of this trend, we are taking this as an opportunity to postpone the event so that we can focus the community’s energies on the best way to bring it back stronger than ever in 2010.

We wish to reflect on what we can offer as a high quality festival, and be in harmony with the breadth and quality of the local galleries. Past events have been less than we’d hoped for in Durango’s arts scene. We are going to change that for the betterment of all.

Because we will need to make 2010 a “comeback” year, the community’s input is vital. Those interested in helping to plan and organize next year’s event should attend an organizational meeting at the DAC on Wednesday, August 26 at 10 a.m.

If you would like to share your thoughts and ideas or to be reminded of the meeting later this summer, please email the Exhibits Director at info@durangoarts.org.

Finally, we wish to affirm that the Durango Arts Center is still very much alive and involved with the community through its programs, events and galleries.
Though the Durango Arts Center has had a tough year, we continue to call upon the input and assistance of community members who wish to ensure the success and sustainability of this much needed organization. We are thankful for all who are stepping forward to make the Durango Arts Center better than ever, and we encourage everyone to help through your membership, donations, participation and the incredible community spirit that created the DAC.

Diane Panelli
President, Board of Directors
info@durangoarts.org