Former astronaut Story Musgrave, who visited the Community Arts Center earlier this month, signed an astronaut doll. (Bobbie Curd / February 26, 2012) |
There is still time to go to SPACE … Imagine That! brought to us by Danville Pediatrics at the Community Arts Center, and sponsored in part by Women’s Care for the Commonwealth. Visitors can make their way into the Discovery Dome, create their own science fiction movie score on our Theremin or drive the Mars Rover until 5 p.m. today.
Independent thought
There have been some great surprises along the way, including an overwhelming fascination with Program Director Brandon Long’s portrayal of Galileo. His lair is set up in the basement amidst mandolin music, LED candles and a makeshift window complete with glowing stars. Phone calls continue from visitors planning to return to SPACE, but “want to make sure that Galileo will be there.”
It seems each visitor walks away with something different; a message or thought totally unique to their own perception spurred by the presentation. Kids and adults alike walk out of the basement lair, smiling and commenting or with brows furrowed, in deep thought.
We couldn’t be more pleased — this type of independent thinking and thought-provoking conversations marrying the arts and education is what our blockbuster events are all about. To use the words of General George S. Patton: “If everyone is thinking alike, then somebody isn’t thinking.”
Inspirational spacewalker
Perhaps the biggest surprise of all was the visit from the legendary Story Musgrave. The 76-year-old former astronaut of 30 years presented during a packed Lunch and Learn last week, and returned the next morning, presenting again for an amazing crowd of more than 200 visitors over the course of one day.
Musgrave enlightened audiences with NASA recollections and amazed us by sharing unbelievable stories about his many skills and hobbies, including germination techniques for his Palm field and his world travels to find out how to make a specific species of exotic plant flourish in his own Floridian yard. Musgrave also shared his photography niche with audiences, his involvement with art and design and his never-ending zealous attempt to do things the right way “…or they just won’t work!” as he says. He inspired others to continue on their dream-filled paths as well as amused us with entertaining anecdotes.
Dr. Musgrave — we salute you.
SNEAK PEAK
Two exhibits will be featured at the Community Arts Center through March: “Near & Far,” by Lynn Dunbar, and “Tiny Treasures,” by Judy Schaefer. Don’t miss next weekend’s Accent section for more details on both artists and their featured exhibits. The exhibiting artists’ reception will be 6-8 p.m. March 15.
SO YOU KNOW
A brand new line up for Starry Night Studios has been announced, along with an added surprise gift from Centre College’s Norton Center for the Arts. For more information, visit www.communityartscenter.net.
