Historic Dartmouth Cultural Center Nearing Major Renovations

Long-awaited repairs and renovations to the Dartmouth Cultural Center may soon be around the corner. The building opened in 1889 and is one of the oldest structures in Dartmouth.

Historic Dartmouth Cultural Center Preparing for Repairs

Cultural Center President Pauline Santos said the building has served as a public space for 135 years. She stopped by Townsquare Sunday to report on two new exhibits and offer a tentative timeline for the renovations.

Timeline Set for Long-Awaited Renovations

Santos said the center will begin advertising for bids on May 15. "On the 29th, we will host a contractor walk-through so interested contractors can see the site, and by mid-July, we should be selecting a contractor and signing a contract," she said.

Santos is hoping that by September, outside work on the north side of the building will begin, with work inside happening in January and February.

Rhode Island Artists Featured in May Exhibit

A new May exhibit is on display through May 29. Susan Medyn and David Formanek are the artists. "They're a husband-and-wife team out of Rhode Island," Santos said. "David creates art with wax in a process used 6,000 years ago, while Susan works with beehives. Their work is amazing. I've never seen anything like it."

Bee Workshop Highlights Environmental Awareness

In a related program, the Bristol County Bee Association will present a free program on raising bees, and the importance of bees to our environment. It's scheduled for May 25 at 6:30 p.m. at the Center.

Painting, Sculpture and Bracelet-Making in June

The June exhibit will feature the painting and sculpture of Eric Lintala and Bruce Bailey. It will run from June 5 through June 27. "Displaying community art has always been our goal," Santos said. "We want to be partners with artists in the community."

On June 10, the Center will host a workshop on making Nantucket bracelets. You can call the center at (508) 991-0484 for more information.

Cultural Center Expanding Hours and Volunteer Opportunities

The Center is always looking for volunteers and workshop instructors. Please call the Center if you are interested.

The Dartmouth Cultural Center is currently open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., but starting in June, the Center will be open Friday until 7 p.m. Also, a tip of the cap this month to Board Member Mary Lou Frias for her outstanding work redoing the Cultural Center's website.

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