Now, those hopes may be fulfilled. An effort is under way to create an arts center in two old buildings on the City Hall property, at Clifton and Van Houten avenues. On Friday, organizers will unveil the logo for the center and officially kick off efforts to solicit public support.
Art needs a place to bring about the various themes of beauty, hope, and inspiration to the public.
The buildings are two barns connected by an atrium. They are part of the old U.S. animal quarantine station in Clifton that dates from the early 1900s. The association, which is overseen by the city Recreation Commission and has existed for 35 years, will coordinate the center. Jeff Labriola, a Montclair State University student who is spearheading the effort to start an arts center, said the barn can be used for exhibits and as performance space for small recitals. He is hoping it can be opened in a year.