Grant will support art programs

AIKEN --- The Aiken Center for the Arts received a financial boost last week.

It was given $8,022 in grant funding from the South Carolina Arts Commission.

Kristin Brown, the executive director of the center, said the grant will allow it to promote art education, maintain partnerships in the community and promote culture in Aiken County and surrounding communities.

"This support will help us to provide compensation for teachers, provide special programs like Aiken Arts Live and Holly Days and maintain the center," she said.

Several companies, organizations and residents are helping the arts center raise money to match the grant with local funds.

"The arts commission grant encourages the staff and volunteers at the arts center to continue their dedication to the arts and the community," Ms. Brown said.

The Aiken Center for the Arts, on Laurens Street in downtown Aiken, offers a variety of programs that will be aided by the grant, such as performing arts classes, free exhibits and children's summer art camps.

"We sincerely thank them (the arts commission) for their confidence in the work accomplished by committed individuals and artists at the Aiken Center for the Arts," Ms. Brown said.

Reach Michelle Guffey at (803) 648-1395, ext. 110, or michelle.guffey@augustachronicle.com.