Providing for a vibrant arts community

Jerry Frech
Published: March 1, 2008

March is upon us, and one of the most exciting events coming up is First Friday in Fredericksburg.

Fredericksburg, along with many other communities in the world, is gearing up for an art expo of their local artists.

These artisans specialize in various mediums from pottery to painting to fiberworks.  

Unfortunately, Culpeper will not be among the many communities offering an art expo.

As a child growing up in Culpeper, I always believed that there was a lively and active art community.

I took art lessons in the summer and took part in whatever my parents could find for me; yet as a grew up, I neglected art.

It wasn't until I went to Iraq with the Air National Guard that I came to realize art was my true calling.

So, with my wife at my side, we followed our passion to Bluefield College, where we are pursuing our degrees in Studio Art.

Bluefield is a small coal-mining town with a fraction of the population of Culpeper, yet it places a large emphasis on the arts.

There are opening nights, galleries, collectors and most of all an identity of who the town is.

There is so much more than what Culpeper has to offer, and with only half the population!  

From Bluefield to Fredericksburg, the arts play a big role in every community, yet Culpeper is still the same as it was when I was a kid. 

I am aware that many people may say "Why is this such an important issue-"

It's simple: Art adds culture and culture gives a town a personality.

So here's my big question to all of Culpeper: What is Culpeper's identity- A bedroom community-

I don't think so.

What can we do about this- I appeal to the residents of Culpeper to support local artists, galleries and groups like the Windmore Foundation.

Think about what you are capable of doing and find out if there is anything that you can do to help.

Envision a downtown Culpeper that is lit up on a Friday night.
People from all over the region would drive in to check out the latest artwork and how one artist has interpreted your backyard.

If you're not into art, then you could check out the latest sounds or try a coffee from one of many shops in town!
This could be Culpeper.

Ever since making my first visit to a Fredericksburg art night I keep asking, why not in Culpeper-

Going back to my original question, I know we are more than another bedroom community nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

So what is it Culpeper- You hold the answer to that question!

Jerry Frech is a resident of Bluefield and a former resident of Culpeper.