The Dartmouth Cultural Center anticipates ringing in the new year with some long-planned construction work, plus a full schedule of exhibits and programs in 2026.
The Cultural Center building on Elm Street, at one time the original Southworth Library, is one of the oldest structures in Dartmouth. President Pauline Santos said the project’s first phase is to make the building more accessible. She hopes to begin the bidding process soon, with work starting in the spring.
Santos stopped by Townsquare Sunday this week to detail the renovations and discuss some of the first exhibits to be displayed, starting in March.
The nonprofit has already raised more than $400,000 for the renovation work, and has secured a 30-year lease from the town.
“With the start of the bidding process, we’ll have an open house for contractors,” Santos said. “What we want is to start on the repointing on the north side of the building. That’s where a ramp and a new doorway will go. Getting that done would be a great accomplishment.”
The Center itself is closed in January and February for exhibits, but there are still classes and events going on. Jill Law is hosting a class on Abstract Painting which runs through February 13. On February 12, the Center will host a Valentine Poetry Reading, and in March and April, the Center will offer classes on Weaving on a Rigid Heddle Loom, taught by Lisa Elliott. Call the Center at (508) 991-0484 or visit the Dartmouth Cultural Center website to learn more.
The first exhibit of the new year will open on March 20. It is the annual art exhibit done by Dartmouth High School AP students. “It’s wonderful to see these kids so excited that their work is being displayed in a professional way,” Santos said. The exhibit features all types of art such as digital, sculpture, photography, and painting, and will run through March 28.
The Dartmouth Cultural Center continues to seek instructors for special programs. Instructors will be paid. Contact the Center for more info.
