Latrobe Art Center turns 20, plans to host October celebration, auction

The Latrobe Art Center’s humble beginnings trace back to June 2002, when the center started out as a one-room gallery space.

More than two decades later, the center boasts a café and two additional galleries. Executive Director Michael Tusay said it’s been an “incredible journey.”

“It’s been incredible to see the growth of the center throughout the years,” Tusay said. “As we grow physically, we continue to grow our membership, gallery participants and programming.”

On Oct. 1, the center will host a monthlong “20 Grand Years in the Neighborhood” celebration, which will aim to raise “20 grand” — or $20,000.

Festivities begin on Saturday,Oct. 1, when the center will host a celebration and annual auction kick-off. From 6 to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy food, games, a cash bar and more at the center.

Ricolita’s Café will cater the semi-formal event, which costs $50 at the guest level and $75 at the patron level. The center is still taking reservations, Tusay said.

Throughout the remainder of October, the center will host a silent auction online.

More information about the auction, which will end on Oct. 31, is available on the center’s website. Auction items can be viewed in person at the center during regular business hours.

The center will also accept online donations throughout October.

The money raised will help the center continue operating and begin offering new programming and art classes, Tusay said.

“We all look forward to the next 20 years to come,” Tusay said.