
BUCYRUS — The Crawford County Art Center is sponsoring a night of fun this weekend [
— and doing so with a new director at the helm.
The community is invited to the “Pins & Paints” event this Saturday, April 11, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Suburban Lanes, 975 Hopley Ave., Bucyrus.
The evening will feature glow bowling, hands-on neon painting activities (,) and pizza, offering a family-friendly way for residents to connect while supporting local arts programming.
Guests are encouraged to wear bright neon clothing to light up the lanes as they enjoy bowling games, creative activities (,) and time with friends and family. Proceeds from the event will directly support arts programming and community initiatives throughout Crawford County.
Tickets for the event are available online [at this link (https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/pins-and-paints).
New Leadership at the Center
The event comes as the Crawford County Art Center continues to expand its outreach and programming under new leadership. Bucyrus native Victoria Adams recently stepped into the role of executive director, bringing with her a background in nonprofit work and a focus on strengthening community engagement.
“I am honored to now serve the community that raised me,” Adams said. “I want to continue increasing visibility for the center so more people in Crawford County understand the programs and opportunities available to them.”
Adams said her priorities include building partnerships, expanding programming (,) and ensuring long-term sustainability for the organization while keeping the center accessible to all.
Located at 117 S. Sandusky Ave. in downtown Bucyrus, the art center employs six people and is supported by approximately 15 volunteers who assist with events, programming (,) and outreach efforts.
A Community Hub
The center, established in 2013, is funded through memberships, donations, grants, event revenue (,) and class registrations. Board member Alena Fox said the organization continues to grow and welcomes community involvement from across the county.
“The Crawford County Art Center is here for everyone to enjoy, and we welcome people from all over Crawford County and beyond,” Fox said. “We have members from Galion, Crestline, New Washington, Marion, Mt. Gilead (,) and Bucyrus.”
Fox [noted] the center offers affordable memberships and a variety of free and family-friendly activities, along with classes and community events throughout the year.
“I treasure the Art Center for the time I can spend there with others, being inspired by their work and amazed at the local talent,” she said. “It’s a great place to make and meet friends.”
Upcoming Programs
Some of the classes and events offered at the Art Center each month include painting sessions, Tai Chi (,) and other creative programs designed to bring people together.
In addition to Pins & Paints, the gallery is preparing for its next themed exhibit, “Refresh,” which will highlight works focused on renewal and growth as the community moves into the spring season.
Adams said the goal remains simple: to create a space where everyone feels welcome.
“Whether someone is an artist, a student, or simply curious, there is a place for them here,” she said. “Our doors are open, and we truly welcome everyone.”
For more information, visit crawfordcountyartcenter.com or follow the organization on Facebook.