SCCC's new gallery gives all county artists a new home

SUSSEX COUNTY-The former library at the Sussex County Community College has been transformed into a 4,900-square-foot fine art facility which includes four studios, a dark room and a public art gallery. Although the facility has been open since September of last year, the official opening took place last Friday as invited guests gathered to view the facility and the art work of 15 faculty members. "We are delighted with this new facility because up to now the art department has been stuffed into closets, and now we have this beautiful space," said Julie McWilliams, coordinator for the fine arts degree program. "It's the first time that there has been a center for the arts in Sussex County." The gallery, which is on two levels, allows visitors to view the entire fine art facility as they follow the art displays. "I am very impressed by the gallery, and I can see how anyone would want to come in here even for a few minutes to escape the pressures of a busy day and smell the roses, so to speak," said Freeholder Steve Oroho. The gallery will have new exhibits every six weeks and will feature the work of the 60 students enrolled in the fine arts program along with the work of county artists. "We would like to make the college gallery the cultural center of the county, a central place where artists can meet and display their work," said Linda Fountain, college trustee. The new fine art facility was part of a $1.8-million renovation which included a new library and science building; the fine arts department took over the old library space. The gallery will be open to the public 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. It will be closed Sundays.