Half a Century of Artistry: Wayne Center for the Arts Celebrates 50 Years of Community Impact
September 3, 2023
If only trees could talk, imagine all the stories and beautiful moments that could be shared from the large maple trees located on the property of the Wayne Center for the Arts (WCA). These trees were there for the 25th-anniversary celebration held on the front lawn, and they’ll be here this fall as the WCA celebrates 50 years with a large outdoor Birthday party.
Founded in 1973, the WCA was spurred by a group of women who wanted more art opportunities in the community. Before moving into its current location, the WCA was first housed on The College of Wooster campus in the basement of the Frick Art Center (now the Timken Science Library).
A few months after opening, Don and Alice Noble offered a generous contribution-matching offer to ignite further support. In the first summer, there were twelve different art classes with 150 enrolled students. Under the direction of Jon Thomas and Assistant Director, Sally Patton, the WCA saw tremendous growth. In its initial year, 2,000 individuals engaged in the center’s programming.
In 1984, the WCA moved into its current location, which was once the Walnut Street School. Not having
been used for nearly a decade, Rubbermaid, Inc. stepped in and had the building renovated. Having maintained the building until 1999, Rubbermaid then gifted the building to the WCA. “I’m so thankful for the community leaders that had the foresight to make this resource available,” stated Sara Brink, executive director.
Brink, who was raised in Wayne County, took pottery classes at the center as a child. Due to some unforeseen circumstances, Brink’s dream of becoming a music teacher quickly faded, but after attending a concert at the WCA, she realized she could someday work at a place like the center. And now that dream is a reality.
“The WCA provides high-quality programs for both children and adults,” stated Brink. “We have so many classes in so many disciplines, and we’ve expanded to include digital arts.”
The WCA plans to introduce programming that involves CNC machines and 3D printers. “This will teach valuable and creative skills to those interested,” stated Brink.
“Even though art access and outreach have always been present, after recent strategic planning, those areas have been strengthened. “An outreach program was first established with One-Eighty in 1999, but has been reinvigorated,” said Tiffany Leeper, development manager. “Area agencies have such an overwhelming need to find avenues of expression for adults in recovery and at-risk youth that we’ve established partnerships to provide hands-on artistic programming.” Brink added, “Artistic expression has such a positive impact on mental health, and with ongoing community support, we will continue these efforts to build community resilience.”
WCA also serves organizations such as the Wooster and Orrville Area Boys & Girls Club, YMCA and Head Start preschools. “We’re meeting people where they are,” said Leeper. “This removes barriers to the arts and indicates a shift in organizational mindset.”
Community development was another pillar of the strategic planning process. The park that’s currently behind the WCA is getting a facelift, which is phase one of the project. “We hope to make it something for everyone,” said Brink. “There will be paths to explore, such as a musical path with fun windchimes and drums, and we’ve addressed mobility issues so grandparents can explore with their grandchildren.” Eventually, playground equipment and an amphitheater will be added. “This park will serve the neighborhood and be an anchor for the downtown Arts District,” added Brink.
For the last decade, discussions have taken place about establishing an Arts District in downtown Wooster. Now, it’s an area of focus and is included in the City of Wooster’s Comprehensive Plan. “The operation of festivals, murals, and events, make sense to live in organizations such as the WCA, Main Street Wooster, Inc. and the new Lyric Theater,” said Brink. “Our missions are aligned to bring arts to the community.”
“There’s a lot of excitement for collaboration and synergy with the City’s plans and what the non-profit partners can bring to the community,” continued Brink. Leeper added, “The non-profits are ready to grow and bring cultural events and opportunities to connect within the community. As a community, we are ready to push forward.”
To kick off celebrations for 50 years, there will be a Fall Festival on October 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. “This will be our Birthday party,” exclaimed Brink. “There will be cake, food trucks, kid’s activities, live music, dance performances, indoor activities, crafts and the unveiling of a historical art exhibit.”
“There’s a history of big parties on the front lawn,” stated Leeper. “That’s how they celebrated the 25th anniversary.”
Along with the party, there will also be a couple of different receptions for members of the community, past board members, and previous directors where attendees will be invited to share their experiences. “We have served multiple generations,” said Brink. “It’s time to collect the memories of the last 50 years.”
As the WCA celebrates 50 years, they are also building relationships and community investment for the next 50 years. “We have a long history of corporate support,” said Leeper. “We hope today’s business leaders can see the center in the same light as past leaders.”
“This corporate campaign gives us the opportunity to showcase what we can do for the business community,” said Brink. “Arts are vital to the community. We focus on quality of life and community development.”
For more information on the WCA classes and 50th-anniversary celebrations, please visit wayneartscenter.org.