Published: May 02, 2009 11:39 pm      

Artisan center opening in Frostburg

FSU students to staff venue

FROSTBURG — When Mountain City Traditional Arts opens later this month, it will be with the help of a federal $15,000 grant awarded to the Allegany Arts Council.

The new venue at 25 E. Main St. will be devoted to traditional art and handmade products from the mountain region.

The project is a partnership of Allegany Arts Council, FrostburgFirst: A Main Street Community and Frostburg State University.

The Appalachian Regional Commission grant was announced by U.S. Rep. Roscoe Bartlett as funding to equip the new artisan center, which will support 20 local artisans.

The Allegany Arts Council will contribute $10,000 and FSU $5,000 to the $30,000 project, the announcement said.

Kara Rogers Thomas, assistant professor of folklore and sociology at FSU, told the Times-News previously that artists will show the process behind the creation of their work. Quilters, weavers, rug hookers, potters, soap-makers and a blacksmith have committed to the project.

A small stage in the rear of the store will feature performances by bluegrass musicians and traditional dancers.

The center will be staffed primarily by FSU students and will include kiosks with displays of regional artists’ work and documentary films produced by the students.

A grand opening is planned for May 30 from 5 to 8 p.m. as part of Frostburg’s Arts Walk. Demonstrations and performances will be offered throughout the evening.