The Fine Arts

We live in this world in order always to learn industriously and to enlighten each other by means of discussion and to strive vigorously to promote the progress of science and the fine arts. – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart [1756-1791] While there’s a lot to unpack in this quote, let’s focus on the last three words, the fine arts. Some folks in 1978 (two centuries after a turning point in Mozart’s life while in Paris) may have been focused on “Saturday Night Fever” by the Bee Gees going to #1 for 24 weeks, or the first “micro on a chip” patent by Texas Instruments, or the ongoing evolution of the Pop Art Movement, but closer to home, a small group founded the Fine Arts Center for the New River Valley [FACNRV]. The mission remains to offer arts education and a place to showcase the work of local artists to the community and visitors alike. The art gallery and gift shop is the Edna B. Love Gallery in honor of one of the founders and is the oldest downtown Main Street business in Pulaski. The news flash in 2025 is that the center has expanded to include a satellite space for classes and another gift shop in Blacksburg. A bundle of credit goes to Jane Bonomo for her personal dedication to fine arts paired with her generous spirit. Jane’s keen eye and brilliant sense for fashion and style have been present in her shop(s) across more than 50 years. Bonomo’s Plaza was developed under Jane’s vision for a small, attractive shopping locale with an interesting mix of tenants in two 1-story buildings. Today, not only can you attend an art class and purchase local art works, you can dine, get coffee, eat a sandwich, take out a pizza, get your nails done and buy a new outfit or fine accessories with one stop.  Volunteers Step Up Local stained glass artist Nikki Pynn is the volunteer director. Nikki was featured in New River Valley Magazine in SeptOct 2015 and has been instrumental in advancing the arts community in the New River Valley for decades. “I approach the opening of this gallery from the perspective of a local artist,” Nikki states. “The backbone of the FACNRV is support for local artists, discovering what is needed and what will help them move forward. The new location’s success will take the community of artists and art supporters coming in and giving their impressions.”Five other volunteers help in the gallery, plus one part-time IT staff member. Already 22 local artists in a variety of mediums and styles are on board with their creative, original, hand-crafted pieces on display and for sale.   Classes and Support There are art classes for adults, youth and children and creative approaches like exploring mosaic making at a Creative Tea Party. The Candle Dipping Class is structured for ages 10 to 18. Needle felting, water batik, greeting card workshops, stained glass, calligraphy, drawing and many fascinating art classes are offered throughout the year in Pulaski and Blacksburg. Fine arts have a powerful role in enhancing the lives of individuals and communities. Creative expression, social opportunities, artistic innovation and an economic impact are just a few of the positive angles. Buying art for yourself and as gifts is one step in a show of support. Showing up for special events and exhibits, getting to know artists and arranging for commissioned pieces illustrates a commitment to the fine arts. Membership in the Fine Arts Center for the New River Valley is an affordable way to show support, as well as receive a discount in the gift shops and classes. Much of FACNRV’s success for nearly five decades can be attributed to donations and memberships which have sustained the organization to deliver artistic energy, innovative creativity and excellent art experiences to all ages.   Fine Arts Center for the New River Valley21 W. Main St., Pulaski860 University City Blvd., Blacksburg www.facnrv.org MembershipAnnual Family membership, $60Annual individual membership, $30Student membership, $0   Text by Joanne M. Anderson
Photos Courtesy of Fine Arts Center for the New River Valley