Centrum (arts organization) facts for kids

Centrum is a special place located in Fort Worden State Park. This park is near Port Townsend, Washington, in Jefferson County. Centrum is a non-profit organization that focuses on the arts. It offers many different workshops and performances. People can learn and enjoy various artistic activities here.

How Centrum Started

Centrum began in 1973. It was created through a partnership of three groups. These groups were the Washington State Arts Commission, the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission. Joseph F. Wheeler was the first person to lead Centrum as its executive director. Some of the early people who helped run the programs included Bill Ransom and Sam Hamham.

What Centrum Does

Centrum offers many programs for people of all ages. However, it also has special learning experiences just for young people. About one-third of the people who join Centrum's workshops are 18 years old or younger. Centrum hosts several popular events. These include the Festival of American Fiddle Tunes, Jazz Port Townsend, and the Port Townsend Acoustic Blues Festival. It also presents the Port Townsend Writers' Conference, where writers can learn and share their work.