Gallery 53: Raising That Roof!

FEBRUARY 2021: Raise the Roof Capital Campaign Update

Somedays, it’s easy to feel as though our $60,000 goal might be unattainable! But thanks to YOUR DONATION - and donations from others who share your committment - we see that there is a broad base of support for keeping the arts alive in Meriden. So, we press forward!

First, we set up a Raise the Roof Campaign Committee, chaired by Dave Cooley. Under Dave’s direction, we submitted an application for a Survey and Planning Grant to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to potentially fund an expert structural evaluation of our circa 1890s building. If awarded, the evaluation would be instrumental in establishing clear cut goals for this project as well as identifying future priorities.

Thanks to all of you, we've raised $12,000+ towards our goal!

WHAT'S AT STAKE: Our 53 Colony Street building (4th from left), built in the 1890's and located in Meriden's Colony Street - West Main Street Historic District, looks much the same now (right) as when this postcard was produced by August Schmelzer Company (left, approximately 1920).

On the immediate horizon, we’re reaching out to potential individual and corporate sponsors, researching grant opportunities, and contacting private charitable foundations. We’re also thrilled to receive a donation of 2 amazing paintings from Simsbury, Connecticut artist Lynn Sweat, best-known as the Illustrator of the Amelia Bedelia books. Stay tuned for an upcoming fundraiser including these paintings!

Castles in the Air by Lynn Sweat

Twins by Lynn Sweat

We realize a project of this magnitude can take several years to complete. But as we wade through the day-to-day hard work, we’re constantly re-energized by the enthusiasm of our volunteers, and inspired by YOUR generosity and support! So, what began as a disaster-in-the-making has become an opportunity to reach out beyond our arts organization to collaborate with others in the community who share our commitment to the arts! Undertaking this major capital campaign has made us realize that we have the tenacity to see this project through AND keep working towards our long-term vision of a viable, multi-discipline arts center in Downtown Meriden!

THANK YOU for joining us on this journey. Together, we can keep art alive in Meriden!

Artfully Yours,

GALLERY 53

Raise The Roof Committee

STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE "RAISE THE ROOF' CAMPAIGN!

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