Columbia Art Center Provides Space to Cope With Pandemic
Center Recently Honored With “Best of Howard County” Award
Vickie Howell, who has been taking pottery classes and workshops at the Columbia Art Center for over 20 years, says that creating art has played an enormous role in being able to cope with the stress of the pandemic.
“Thanks to the Art Center, I’m able to regain a sense of control. I can restore my mind and body while keeping my heart open. I am a potter, creating a beautiful form from a simple organic material,” said Howell. “I once heard a potter say, ‘You center the clay and the clay centers you.’ That is exactly how I feel. The Columbia Art Center is a place of inspiration during this tough time.”
Right now, the Art Center is offering small-scale, socially distant workshops and classes to keep Columbia energized and creating.
“No matter what age you are, it’s so important in this isolating time to have an outlet for creativity and connection that doesn’t revolve around the computer screen,” Columbia Art Center director Liz Henzey said. “Art is something we can all share that can help release anxiety and spark joy.”
While the gallery shop is currently closed, workshops, classes and small group rentals at the Art Center reopened in mid-October.
“While the Art Center has always been really community-driven, the decision to keep the gallery closed for now is to minimize foot traffic and keep everyone safe,” said Liz Henzey, Columbia Art Center director. “We’re being extremely intentional with our precautions. All of our studios have been cleaned and reconfigured to comply with proper social distancing practices.”
The reconfigured studios at Columbia Art Center ensure proper social distancing
From painting to stained glass to ceramics, there’s something for everyone. You can learn more about safety measures in place on our CA Reopens web page.
Additionally, the Columbia Art Center is thrilled to receive an honorable mention for “Best Art Gallery” in the 2020 Best of Howard County awards from Howard Magazine. We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who voted — the support of our community means the world to us.
Interested in learning more or coming in to flex your creative muscles? Check out the Columbia Art Center web page for more information!
