Narrows Center for the Arts facts for kids
The Narrows Center for the Arts is a fun place in Fall River, Massachusetts, USA. It's a non-profit spot where you can enjoy art and live music. It started in 1995 to help people discover and love visual arts and performances. The center has two art galleries, a theater for shows, and studios where artists create their work.
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Discovering the Narrows Center
The Narrows Center is supported by donations from people and help from volunteers. It moved from its first home in a part of Fall River called "the Narrows." That's how it got its name! Now, it's on the third floor of an old mill building on Anawan Street. From there, you can see the famous Battleship Cove complex on Mount Hope Bay.
This center began as a small art gallery. It's one of many groups working to bring more art to the Fall River area. They often use empty mill buildings and warehouses for art studios and performance spaces. There's even a plan to make the downtown area an "Arts District." The Narrows Center has received grants to help people learn about cool places and cultural events in southeastern Massachusetts. The music venue is in an open, high-ceiling mill building from the early 1900s. It has tables and church pews around a small stage. This setting is perfect for all kinds of music, from folk to blues to rock.
Exploring Art at the Narrows
The Narrows Center brings a wide variety of art to Fall River. You can see art made by local artists, as well as artists from other parts of the country and even the world.
Art Galleries
The center has two visual art galleries. When you first enter, you'll find the main gallery. It has lots of wall space, about 210 feet, and a cool design. The artwork in this gallery changes several times a year. You can see art made with all sorts of materials.
The Narrows Café Gallery is at the other end of the building. It faces Battleship Cove. This space is great for showing a series of artworks or a single artist's work. Having two galleries means visitors have more chances to see amazing art. Artists also have more chances to show their creations. The Narrows has even hosted museum-quality traveling exhibits. Some past shows included "The Art of the Brick" by Nathan Sawaya and art by Anthony Quinn. They've also shown artwork by students from local high schools and the nearby University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth.
The Narrows offers free tours and workshops for kids. This makes sure everyone can enjoy art, even if they can't afford it. You can visit the galleries for free during regular hours. If you're there for a concert, you can also check out the art!
Artist Studios
Besides the art galleries, the Narrows Center also provides studio space. Several local artists work here. They include painters, photographers, knitters, and even guitar-makers. Many of these studios are open during music events. You can buy local artwork, like jewelry, sculptures, paintings, and photos. The artist studios are located on the second floor of the building.
Enjoying Live Performances
The Narrows Center brings local, national, and international performers to its stage. They cover many different types of music.
Music Performances
The venue has hosted many talented musicians. Some famous names include Duke Robillard, Eric Lindell, David Lindley, Johnny Winter, Eilen Jewell, Peter Wolf, Blue Oyster Cult, and Susan Tedeschi. Local favorites like Roomful of Blues have also performed here.
Comedy Shows
Sometimes, the Narrows Center also hosts comedy events. You might see national comedians like Paula Poundstone or funny local acts.
Learning Opportunities
The Narrows Center offers ways for the public and local students to learn. They have hands-on workshops and space to display student artwork.
Awards and Recognition
The Narrows Center has been recognized for its great work:
- Mass Cultural Council - Cultural Investment Funding (2014)
- Providence/Boston Phoenix - Best Folk Venue (2008, 2010, 2011, 2013)
- Rhode Island Monthly Magazine - Best Destination Concerts (2007)
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