What Makes Kentucky, Kentucky?

By PAUL STANSBURY 

Contributing writer 

The Community Arts Center invites you to become part of the conversation at next week’s Lunch with the Arts program. At noon on  Nov. 15, join Stuart Sanders, the Kentucky Historical Society’s History Advocate, for an engaging discussion about what makes the Bluegrass State unique, when viewed through the lens of history.  Sanders will facilitate a conversation that celebrates the commonwealth’s past while looking for ways to confront the challenges of the future. 

In June, communities across the commonwealth celebrated Kentucky’s 225th birthday. In recognition of this event, the Kentucky Historical Society has mounted a Call To Action. According to KHS, “the stories from our past help us confront the challenges of the future. History also teaches critical skills, promotes economic development and enhances our communities. “

Stuart wants us to think about why our history is important to us as modern Kentuckians. KHS asks us to consider the following: What would Kentucky communities be like without preserved main streets, historic homes and schools, museums and historic sites? Moreover, what would Kentucky’s landscapes be without mountains, rolling hills, preserved greenspace, horse farms and rock fences? Our museums, historic sites and preserved landscapes educate students, bring tourists to the state and make our communities vital places to live and work. This cultural heritage enhances our communities and makes our state what it is.

According to KHS, the late historian Dr. Thomas D. Clark believed that “the past must surely provide a threshold to the future,” and that history “will help us prepare to meet tomorrow.”

When he is not hugging cannons, Stuart serves as a History Advocate with State Government. Stuart is a former executive director of the Perryville Battlefield Preservation Association. While there, he worked for nearly 10 years to preserve and interpret Kentucky’s largest Civil War battleground before joining the Kentucky Historical Society, first to oversee community field services and now as our History Advocate.  Stuart has a wealth of experience as a preservationist, interpreter, and outreach specialist. He is the author of three books and a vocal advocate, communicating the relevance, value and significance of Kentucky’s history. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and completed Developing History Leaders @SHA.

In addition to participating in the conversation at the Community Arts Center, KHS encourages you to get involved by contacting a museum or history organization in your community and donating your time, expertise or money to help them with their missions. These organizations contribute to local education, tourism development and to making our communities better places to live.

More info: https://history.ky.gov/

IF YOU GO

Lunch with the Arts, featuring Stuart Sanders, will be noon-1 p.m. Nov. 15 at the Community Arts Center. The cost is $5 at the door, and those who wish to attend are invited to bring their lunch. 

COMING UP 

The Arts Center Holiday Market

November 17 to December 23

Opening Reception November 17, 5pm to 9pm

Find unique, hand-crafted gifts by local and regional artists at the Arts Center’s first-ever Holiday Market. At the opening reception, enjoy live music, beer and wine for sale, and assortment of holiday snacks as you shop the market, meet the artists, and kick off the holiday season in style.

Clay Nativity Workshop

Thursdays, November 9 & 16 OR

Mondays, November 27 & December 4

4pm to 5:30pm | $35 | Open to grades 2-6

During this two-day workshop, students will create a simple nativity scene from clay. Register online at www.communityartscenter.net.

Starry Night Studio: Christmas Elf

Saturday, November 18 | 1pm to 3pm | $28 per painter

This whimsical painting of a cheerful elf is a must-have piece for any family that enjoys Elf on the Shelf. Kids ages 7 and up may attend without a parent! Register online at www.communityartscenter.net.

Starry Night Studio: Snowman

Saturday, November 25 | 1pm to 3pm | $28 per painter

Get into the holiday spirit with this fun and friendly snowman. This class coincides with the Heart of Danville’s Christmas festivities. Paint you snowman, check out the ice rink at Weisiger Plaza, then enjoy the downtown tree-lighting and Christmas parade! Register online at www.communityartscenter.net.

Starry Night Studio: Rustic Christmas Trees

Tuesday, November 28 | 7pm to 9pm | $28 per painter

Deep in the forest, a Christmas surprise awaits… Register online at www.communityartscenter.net.

Night at the Museum

Friday, December 1 (overnight!) | 6:30pm to 8:30am

$40 per child | Open to grades 2-6

Grab your sleeping bag and get ready for a fun-filled sleepover! We’ll enjoy seasonal art-making activities, go on an art scavenger hunt, explore the galleries by flashlight, and watch a holiday movie. Register online at www.communityartscenter.net.

KY Ornament Workshop

Wednesday, December 6 | 7pm to 8:30pm | $25

Show your Kentucky spirit this holiday season! Your registration fee includes four ceramic Kentucky ornaments (designed exclusively for the Arts Center) and all the materials needed for you to personalize your ornament. Register online at www.communityartscenter.net.