About Us
Arts Center East is home to a rich artistic community. We are a place where visual artists from across the state – and beyond! – exhibit and sell their work through juried exhibits and members exhibits. Unique handmade creations of pottery, jewelry, wood crafts, and other gifts made by local and regional artisans fill our artisan craft fairs. Musical and theatrical performances delight audiences of all ages, and our classrooms hum with the joy of artistic creation and growth. We are the heart of the arts east of the river.
Arts Center East hosts numerous exhibits and events throughout the year. We offer classes and workshops in drawing, painting of all mediums, photography, writing, and more.
Our Mission is to advance the arts for everyone through education, exhibits, events, and performances. This includes embracing and showcasing the diversity of artists and their work. As our organization continues to grow, we strive to reflect the varied and vibrant community we serve.
Our Vision is to become a regional arts destination in Connecticut. All are welcome to enjoy the innovative exhibits, educational programming, performances, and events offered at Arts Center East. Join us today!
Arts Center East does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, age, religion, marital status, sex, disability, or orientation in employment, or events such as exhibitions, classes, and performances.
Discrimination is not tolerated within the center or its events. Arts Center East is committed to a positive environment free of discrimination and harassment including inappropriate verbal comments or actions.
4/29/2022
Staff & Board
Arts Center East is led by a small dedicated staff and Board of Directors.
BOARD MEMBERS / Ginny Emerson (President), Jacques Lamarre (Vice-President), Kathy Stavens (Treasurer), Laura Kinlock (Secretary), Jon Aidukonis, Irma Carter, Jan DiTarando, Bob Hurd, Sharon Kehmna, YukShan Li, Dr. Ellen Marmer, Jane Penfield, Rosa Roman, Stephen F. Sutton, Phyllis Winkler.
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR / Liz Bologna / director@artscentereast.org
DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE / Chanel Ross / development@artscentereast.org
GALLERY COORDINATOR / Alana Peterson / gallery@artscentereast.org
PARTNERS
POETRY ROCKS! / Pegi Deitz Shea, director
DIONYSUS THEATRE COMPANY / Gabbi Mendelsohn, director
Our Mission
Arts Center East’s Mission is to advance the arts for everyone through education, exhibits, events, and performances.
You can help support Arts Center East’s Mission to enrich lives and enhance economic development east of the river.
Our History
1927
The Arts Center East building was originally constructed in 1927 and served as the County Home School. The Colonial Revival style school served the children residing in the orphanage, formerly located where the police station on Route 30 stands today.
When the orphanage closed, the school building continued to serve the community, first as the Vernon Elementary School and later as the Vernon Kindergarten. The Vernon Kindergarten closed in the 1970’s and the building was used as storage and office space for the Board of Education. By the turn of the century, it had fallen into disrepair.
2010
In July 2010, through the efforts of a committee of town residents, Vernon received a state grant for $1.7 million to fund a renovation of the historic building.
2012
In 2012 the building was reincarnated as Arts Center East, the heart of the arts east of the river.
Today
Arts Center East is home to a rich artistic community, showcasing visual arts and our Artist Members, Literary Arts, and the Performing Arts. Join us today!
