Bringing one of the behind-the-scenes forces behind the arts in Auburn to the fore, a conversation with Shelley Shields of the Auburn Arts Association. Just click on the button below to listen or check us out on iTunes.
Head east on Opelika Road from downtown Auburn and right about the time you’re approcahing the post office, there’s a small sign to your left. Turn off the road a bit and follow the arrow to the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center and you’ll be greeted by a brick and glass building boasting art studios, gallery space, a theatre, and more.
The local organization that helped with the planning, design, construction, and perhaps most importantly funding of the Jan Dempsey is a bit hidden in the community as well, but equally rich in depth and variety. The Auburn Arts Association was founded in 1982 and for nearly 30 years has championed arts education and local artists in Auburn. From scholarships for local artists to high-profile events like their Jazz and Blues Festival, which is now entering its 3rd year, the Auburn Arts Association seeks to make community involvement in the arts a part of everybody’s everyday life.
The Auburn Arts Association curates ongoing exhibits in the art gallery of the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center at 222 East Drake Ave. and supports and sponsors educational and performing events throughout the community including their annual Jazz and Blues Festival and Auburn CityFest all of which are included in our Calendar listings.
– Kelly Walker
