Kane County Chronicle
Batavia Artists Association at Water Street Studios, a nonprofit arts organization, recently received a grant from the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley for $4,923.
This grant will help fulfill Water Street Studio’s desire to have the ultimate community art center. With the purchase of two new welders, three motorized pottery wheels, tools and safety equipment, Water Street Studio’s 3-D classroom is now state of the art.
“This simply would not be possible without the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley,” said Water Street Development Director Jim Kirkhoff in a recent news release. “Not being a tax-funded institution, we have to be very frugal with our funds, yet remain responsive to the needs of the community in order to be sustainable and fulfill our mission.
“Since we opened, we have been asked about pottery and welding classes, but lacked the funds to make the major capital investment.”
The additions to the 3-D classroom will allow Water Street to offer more of its popular ceramics classes.
Water Street Class Coordinator Kari Kraus said in the release that “the two fall ceramics sessions are completely full, but with the new equipment, we are pleased to be able to offer more sessions.”
This grant also brings hope to many community members who have inquired about pottery and welding classes. With the proper equipment in place, Water Street Studios will be able to provide such classes to the community. Instruction will also be enhanced with the addition of a new projector purchased with grant funds.
The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley. Foundation funds are used to provide grants to nonprofit organizations and scholarships to area students.
In 2009, the foundation awarded more than $1.5 million in grants to nonprofit organizations and more than $774,000 in scholarships to worthy students.
For more information on Water Street Studios membership as well as gallery activities, studio rental and classes, visit www.waterstreetstudios.com or view event updates and details on Facebook.
