Dartmouth Cultural Center Seeks Longer Lease, Offers New Exhibit

The Dartmouth Cultural Center on Elm Street has reopened its doors following its winter break.

Speaking this week on Townsquare Sunday, President Pauline Santos said the 2025 schedule will include two popular art exhibits in March and April, plus discussion on an issue that could impact the Center's future for years to come.

The Cultural Center currently has a temporary one-year lease with the town of Dartmouth, which will expire this year. Santos is hoping the spring Town Meeting will approve a new lease for up to 30 years.

"We would like 30 years," Santos said. "That would make it easier to obtain grants. Foundations and agencies don't like to invest money in something that's only going to be around for one or two years."

The Center has already raised more than $400,000 to renovate the 130-year old building, primarily to make the structure accessible, install an HVAC system, and shore up the outside of the building.

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The lease process included getting approval from the town's Finance Committee and  the Dartmouth Select Board, and finally the spring Town Meeting in June.

"I've spoken to the Interim Town Administrator this past week, and the Select Board is sponsoring the article at Town Meeting, so we're all set to go," Santos said.

Santos also wanted to highlight two exhibits coming in March and April. The first features artwork from Dartmouth High School Advanced Placement Students and will run from March 15-29.

"I get a kick from the students who are just so thrilled to see their work in the gallery," Santos said. "It's not just paintings, it's all types of art, including digital art as well."

The second exhibit is called "Awakenings," where members of the Dartmouth Cultural Center display their own work. The members exhibit will be on display from April 4-26.

The Center is still looking for volunteers and workshop instructors. You can visit the Dartmouth Cultural Center website for more information.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please e-mail the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.