TALKING IT OVER — A group including community leaders and local arts enthusiasts discusses the possibility of a downtown arts center during a meeting Jan. 9 at the Alleghany Wellness Center headquarters. Shown at the center is Laurel Springs artist Tom Berry, who agreed to help head up the effort.

Local officials and artists gather to discuss art center possibilities

Could an art center be established in downtown Sparta?

A group of town and county officials, artists and other local notables met last week to discuss that issue. The gathering considered a proposal to turn the Smithey building — most recently the home of Blue Ridge Plaza — into a center where artists and crafts people could display as well as sell their wares. Such a facility also might feature performing arts along with more material art works.

The group agreed that a key factor would be the participation and support of area artists themselves.

The assembly of about 20, which met Jan. 9 at the Alleghany Wellness Center Inc. office on Main Street, consisted mostly of business and community leaders, including several government officials, rather than artists themselves.

The group agreed to schedule a subsequent organizational meeting as a next step. Area artists would be encouraged to establish their interest and intent toward participating in such a venture by attending that meeting, slated for Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. at the Alleghany Inn's conference room.

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