Flood Updates

ArtsConnect Families,

For those that may not know, the Springfield Township Arts Center operated by ArtsConnect flooded Christmas Day. The flood was caused by freezing temperatures and a sprinkler system that burst in three locations. The entire center, every room, was affected by flood waters.

Since this time, the center has been in the cleanup phase and is now ready to enter into renovations. While a timetable has not been confirmed, it is estimated that the repairs will take six months, possibly longer (hopefully sooner).

It remains important to us that classes continue, art teachers sustain financial security and students continue to have creative opportunities. Our community has been AMAZING and have stepped up in ways that inspire us to work even harder.

We are happy to announce that we have a temporary home at the former Brent Elementary School while the art center undergoes renovations. Brent Elementary is located at 8791 Brent Dr, directly behind the new Finneytown Elementary School. The building is accessible from Winton Road, or through neighborhood streets.

Session 1 classes have been pushed back one week and will begin the week of January 23rd. (THERE IS STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES!!) While we unfortunately have to cancel pottery, stained glass, and woodshop programs until we are back in our art center, all other classes - including lathe and senior daytime open play programs are on track to continue.  We anticipate adding additional programs and workshops as we find more ways to utilize our temporary space. We will publicize class updates and additions through our website and social media channels as they are created.

Currently, we are holding regular office hours at The Grove Events Center, Monday-Friday 9am-4pm. These office hours will continue through January 20th, but will move to Brent Elementary School mid-week. Our regular hours will resume January 23. The regular hours will be Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 8:00p.m. We will open Saturdays when classes are scheduled. If you have questions, please call 513-522-2108. You can also email ArtsConnect at artsinfo@springfieldtwp.org.

We have commissioned our pottery instructors in the same amount they would have earned for session 1 to make ceramic mugs and dishware, which will be sold at our Brent Elementary location. Designs and pre-sale options will be posted on social media and on our website soon. If you would like to commission an art instructor to make something special for you, please email artsinfo@springfieldtwp.org with your request, budget and phone number.

Throughout this tragic experience, so many have asked, "how can I help". Just in asking the question, lets us know you care and we are genuinely appreciative. We encourage you to register for a class and experience the ArtsConnect difference - which is in the people and the creativity they are passionate about sharing. Our staff, instructors and our students are the heart and soul of ArtsConnect. Registering for a class is not only exciting for our students, it supports our  team of art instructors, many of whom are full-time artists and instructors.
 
We are immensely grateful to the Finneytown Local School District, Superintendent Laurie Banks and Director Business Operations, Grant Anderson for making this partnership possible. We would like to also recognize Fleming Road Church of Christ, Faith Lutheran Church and OLR for offering their facilities when we were looking for options. Thanks to the professionalism and dedication of the ArtsConnect staff, our board, and most importantly, the Springfield Township Administration and Public Works Department for their drive and dedication to make this transition as smooth as possible during this trying time.

We look VERY forward to seeing you soon!

Sincerely,
Kimberlee Flamm
ArtsConnect Executive Director

Links to ArtsConnect programming
Kids Classes & Workshops
Adult Classes & Workshops
Community Events