Staff Report:

The Los Alamos Arts Council (LAAC) has announced that The Fuller Lodge Art Center is currently closed; however, classroom programs remain open. The board made the difficult decision to close the art center on Oct. 22, and let staff go because of funding challenges, which are being resolved. Additionally, the executive director is on leave helping her young teen recover from a traumatic car accident.

While the art center is currently closed, LAAC is moving forward with its events as planned including hosting the annual Pumpkin Glow, which begins with a carving party 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Oct. 28 at Fuller Lodge. The first 60 pumpkins are free to carvers (one per family please). Carvers are encouraged to bring their own pumpkins or buy one from the LAHS Choir Pumpkin Patch on site. Carved pumpkins may be dropped off for display in the glow between noon and 4 p.m. Saturday. The glow begins at dusk.

Preparations also are underway for the Affordable Arts event taking place in November and December. Affordable Arts, a seasonal favorite in Los Alamos, welcomes 27 new artists to the gallery and multiple returning favorites. The full list of artists will be announced when the art center reopens Nov. 7.

The board and staff will host a private opening for Members and Community Partners with artists Nov. 14, then have a grand opening on Black Friday followed by a day of fun and festivities for Shop Small Saturday. Board members and staff said they are proud to be a Neighborhood Champion serving the community this year. Alongside Los Alamos MainStreet and others, the people who volunteer for the board and work for the arts council support artist-run small businesses.

For more information on classes, programs and upcoming gallery exhibits, check the website. To support classes, events and more, visit the donation link. Consider becoming an arts council member.

Courtesy/LAAC