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In the summer
of 1955, Frances Thompson, Anna James and
Eleanor Burton were discussing the possibility of
forming an Art Club. They received a call from an interested newcomer,
Laura Crowl, who was also interested in this same idea. The four women
continued their discussion and quickly learned that you don't just start
an art club. You work at it for months! In 1956 their hard work and
dream paid off. The Leesburg Art Association became a reality. Many members
could be mentioned as contributing to the growth of the Leesburg Art
Association. Outstanding would be the names of Eleanor and Ben Burton,
who were tireless workers in promoting LAA. In 1956 there
was a membership of 20, today we are a fast growing and talented
membership of over 150 people. Our Association is well known and respected
throughout the county. Historical
Facts The 1st regular
meeting of LAA was held in the Melon Patch Theater on October 9, 1956. The first LAA exhibit
was held in April of 1957. The 1955 Spring
Show, held in the Community Building, was the first exhibit to present
judged and popular awards On May 5,
1959, LAA sent a letter to then City Manager, Mr. Pat Thomas, stating
the needs of our organization for permanent meeting and exhibit space. A
building committee was appointed and a building fund initiated. For many
years a percentage of LAA member's art sales helped create the building
fund that eventually led to the Cultural Arts Center of today. In 1979 - 1980 year, LAA moved into the new Cultural Arts Center. Past Presidents
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