Arts and Humanities: Not Just for Artists

At Mascoma Bank, we believe that every member of our community should have opportunities to experience the arts and humanities, as an audience member, participant, and/or creator.

If you haven’t a chance to check out these organizations near you, we encourage you to find out more.

• TwinState MakerSpaces, Inc. is “on a mission to encourage creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the Greater Upper Valley Region.” To pursue that mission, the organization has turned one of Claremont’s historic mill buildings into workshop space for our region’s creators: The Claremont MakerSpace. Using a membership model similar to that of a fitness center, the Claremont MakerSpace offers affordable access to specialty tools, classes, and workspace for woodworking, metalworking, jewelry making, fiber arts, electronics, and much more. These resources are available to individuals of all backgrounds and skill levels. “The MakerSpace serves a variety of makers—from beginners who have never tried a craft or trade, to professional artists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. It’s an incredibly diverse, and fun, community,” says MakerSpace director Josh Bushueff.The Claremont MakerSpace is located at 46 Main Street in downtown Claremont. Visit their website to learn more and find out how to support their work.
• White River Indie Films was created in 2004 by a group of film lovers who wanted to bring to the region films not typically found in local theaters. The annual three-day festival screens films in White River Junction, Vermont. This year’s show, Made Here, was a competitive regional showcase of Northeast America.
• The Colonial Theatre in Bethlehem, New Hampshire, is the one of the oldest continuously operating movie theaters in the country. During its heyday in the era of the Grand Hotels in the White Mountains, it was an important test market for studio films—in its current form, it’s a venue for films, family entertainment, community events, and live performances, with state-of-the-art digital projection and surround sound. The Colonial has the charm befitting its place on the New Hampshire Registry of Historic Places and the wherewithal to move with the times. In addition to traditional movie theater snack options, The Colonial offers organic popcorn, gourmet chocolate, and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, plus an outdoor patio that serves beer and wine during live shows and some special events. To find out how you can support their work, visit their website.

Mascoma Bank recognizes that a well-developed, thriving society celebrates and fosters the arts and humanities, and we are proud to be a part of the good work being done by nonprofit organizations like Claremont MakerSpace, White River Indie Films, and The Colonial Theatre. We’re pleased to work with communities to find ways to encourage participation in and enjoyment of the arts.