Bing Arts Center to feature teachers' artwork

Date: 6/16/2009

By G. Michael Dobbs

Managing Editor



SPRINGFIELD -- Work progresses on the transformation of the former Bing Theater into a multi-use arts center and a new fundraiser is expected to contribute to the goal of the completion of the first phase of the renovation.

The work of 12 Springfield public school art teachers will be featured in the up-coming fundraising event for the Bing Arts Center. "Spring into Summer" on June 20 will feature an art exhibit, a silent auction and music provided by the Eric Bascom Trio.

The event will take place at the arts center on 716 Sumner Ave. from 6 to 9 p.m. and is $25 per person. Food is being provided by Elegant Affairs, wine by Eddie's Fine Wines and Liquors and Desserts by Palazzo Cafe.

"We're still not quite done and are pushing the envelope by getting people into the building," Brian Hale of the Bing Arts Center said.

Hale said the artwork by the teachers ranges from watercolors to large digital prints. There are 42 pieces which be hung in the new gallery spaces in the front half of the building.

Despite the economy, Hale said he feels positive about the completion of the first phase of the renovation.

"We're getting closer," he said. "It's highly stressful, but we're close."

If the arts center can receive some additional funding, Hale is confident the first phase of the front rooms and lobby will be opened by September. Once that part of the building is being used, work and fundraising can then begin on renovating the rest of the building, including the auditorium.

Hale said that while the items to be completed are not "huge by themselves" and include the installation of two sinks, a small water heater, some lights and dry wall.

Tickets are available at Eddie's Fine Wines & Liquors, Flowers! Flowers!, Palazzo Cafe, the Forest Park branch of TDBanknorth and Family Pizzeria Europa.