Work underway at downtown space
by Olivia Murray
OMurray@DominionPost.com
Morgantown Art Party is in need of donations in order to expand its space, and continue to support and promote local artists and musicians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The nonprofit organization, conceived by Retrotique owner Jillian Kelly in 2015, was initially intended to be a small get-together of local creatives. According to Kelly, the idea didn’t take off until she partnered with friend Blake Campbell to launch the initiative, which officially became a 501(c)3 in 2018.
Kelly said the organization seeks to help local artists and musicians succeed. Morgantown Art Party provides space for live music and events, as well as gallery and retail spaces artists can use to promote and sell their work.
The organization also provides practice and recording space and private studio rooms, as well as hosts workshops, private events and weekend artisan markets, among other endeavors.
“Even though 2020 has been a pretty tough year, we’ve managed to survive somehow,” Kelly said. “But with that comes having to make some big changes, so that we can ensure our future and growth.”
Kelly initially operated Morgantown Art Party out of the same space that houses Retrotique, but quickly realized the nonprofit needed its own space. The organization rented the space next to Retrotique, and work is underway to transform it into a safe haven for local creatives.
The organization is also in the process of constructing Art Bar. Located at 268 High St. and set to debut in early 2021, Art Bar will donate a percentage of food and drink sales directly to local artists and musicians.
“More than ever right now, [we need] donations,” Kelly said.
Kelly said while the organization has managed to persevere through the pandemic so far, it would not have been possible without help and support from the Morgantown community. Though normal fundraising events like live shows have been canceled, Kelly said there are still ways for residents to support the organization.
“People can support us in other ways, like purchasing artwork or locally handmade items from us this holiday season. Artists can donate artwork for us to sell, people can purchase [Morgantown] Art Party gift certificates. Donations of art supplies and musical equipment are always needed, and just telling people about us and what we do is a great way to help,” Kelly said.
Morgantown Art Party has several platforms through which people can donate. Contribute by using Paypal (MorgantownArtParty@gmail.com) or Venmo (Morgantown Art Party).
A GoFundMe for Art Bar will soon be set up with a goal of $6,000.
Tweet @DominionPostWV
