By Ojal Arya
As part of Monmouth Arts' 50th Anniversary, we're taking the time to showcase some of our nonprofit member groups that form the foundation of Monmouth Arts' creative community. We understand that the current reopening phase of COVID-19 presents its own challenges, so we're hoping to shine a light on the work being done in this area. Today we're looking at Belmar Arts Council (BAC), established in 2004 as a volunteer based organization. We checked in with Belmar Arts' Secretary, Sheila Kramer, to see what's currently going on with Belmar Arts and their reopening.
For those who aren't familiar with you, how would you describe your nonprofit?
We are a community of creative people who share our works, knowledge, resources and experience in the promotion the arts.
Give one example of a way you've seen your organization's work make a difference.
We were able to hold our artistic community together through outdoor Pop-up Markets, switching to Zoom for meetings and Shared Interest Groups, and holding virtual opening receptions on YouTube. We offer FREE Membership to artists up to age 25!
How are you operating your nonprofit right now in regards to reopening? Have you made any adaptations due to COVID-19 that our readers would be interested in hearing about?
Our first in-person exhibition opened in the galleries on July 17. We will be holding in-person classes and Shared Interest Groups. We require masks to be worn inside our galleries and have them and sanitation supplies available for our guests. We are open two days a week for the summer and by appointment.
Can you share an interesting anecdote or something about your nonprofit that would surprise people?
In addition to art exhibitions we offer classes, workshops, and lectures. We also have Shared Interest Groups for Mixed-Media, Fiber, Photography, Plein Air, and our new group, Art for Sea, which focuses on saving the oceans. We share our stage with community groups that do music, poetry readings, storytelling, recitals, etc.
What are you looking forward to for the rest of 2021?
We will have our "Plein Air" exhibition in September and "A Cabinet of Curiosities" in October. We will begin having in-person classes and group meetings as safety allows.
Monmouth Arts has a great network of arts supporters. How can our members and readers support your nonprofit right now?
We are always happy to welcome new members! We survive on membership fees and show entry fees. Anyone may attend two Shared Interest Group meetings before we ask them to become members, so they can try us out! We encourage members and non-members to enter our art exhibitions.
Where can people find your group?
Website: belmararts.org
Facebook: Belmar Arts
Instagram: @belmararts
Interested in becoming a nonprofit member like Belmar Arts? Become a member of Monmouth Arts today!