By Laura Kester Duerrwaechter
I had the privilege to chat with Helen Harris and Wally Ratcliffe recently about the history, contributions and needs of our visual arts community. Both women are strong advocates of an art-centric network, sharing memories and explaining plans to continue the involvement of ADSO through the next decade and beyond.
The Arts and Design Society of Fort Walton Beach has supported our local communities since 1956.
Throughout its remarkable history and through the dedication of its Board of Directors and volunteers, residents and visitors have been welcomed through its doors. Housed in the original City Hall Complex, the physical building has endured many temporary fixes and minor renovations.
Artful Things Niceville will host a fundraising event in their own gallery, on Sunday, August 10th from 2 P.M. to 5 P. M.,
to further support ADSO in its continued stewardship.
“ADSO is a very welcoming community for children, adults and anyone with varied artistic abilities,” remarked Wally Ratcliffe (current Membership chair). Helen Harris (President,) added, “It’s not just an art gallery it’s a home to any and all artists.” Their mission statement reads: The mission of the Arts and Design Society of Fort Walton Beach, Inc., is to facilitate fine art exhibitions, conduct art classes to enhance the appreciation of the visual arts, and to further educate fledgling and established artists.
The Society has been a successful grass roots effort in promoting and preserving the visual arts. The volunteer staff gives tirelessly of their time to teach and organize events that are focused on keeping the arts a necessary and vibrant component of our daily lives. Their social media platforms include their website, a Facebook Group, Instagram and an online newsletter.
They are currently applying for the Impact 100 grant to help with needed repair to the building, located at 17 First St SE, Fort Walton Beach. Last year they tied with Destin History and Fishing Museum. Grant monies would help to cover the cost of renovating the Clay Studio by installing new flooring, replacing street side window, replacing some doors and upgrading the courtyard.
ADSO together with the Okaloosa Arts Alliance and Okaloosa Public Arts strive to support the public schools, charter and home school curriculum with opportunities to explore artistic creativity. Pyramid, Inc has partnered with ADSO for consecutive years as part of their curriculum for people with developmental disabilities. The annual summer Kids Art Camp had expanded to three weeks this year with discounted enrollment for members. Each weekly camp showcases an art show which is open to the public and located in the Art Gallery. Snowbirds from Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa Counties enjoy a continued relationship.
ADSO can boast membership from Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties as well. Membership levels are tiered and anyone can apply. There is no formal membership drive; just call the office to inquire. They are actively recruiting membership and have seen a recent boost in interest.
The gallery space hosts many juried competitions throughout the year. The Members Show, Beaux Art Exhibition, Van Porter Student Art Show, Photography and Digital Arts Exhibition, and ADSO Christmas Arts and Crafts Market are staples. Just this year, special exhibits include: Let’s Go Fishing, Americana Gallery Show, ADSO Splash & Drip Gallery Show and a 3-D Show. Monthly gallery shows are free and open to the public during regular business hours.
ADSO was the recipient of The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chambers “Spreading Art Throughout the Community of Fort Walton Beach”.
Personally, I am grateful for the dedication, strength and vision of the artists/artisans of The Arts and Design Society. It is truly a creative collective; consistently engaging and promoting visual art along the Emerald Coast. ADSO will continue at their iconic location through 2040 (when their current lease expires). Please support them by attending the fundraising event AND signing up for membership! See you at the Gallery!
