Summer 2014: “Bowlus Birthday” sneak peek!
Bowlus Birthday
The Bowlus Fine Arts Center is celebrating 50 years in Iola
Decades ago, banker Thomas H. Bowlus left most of his estate to one bold vision: the construction of a world-class fine arts and cultural center in his small hometown of Iola.
Today, as the Bowlus Fine Arts Center celebrates its 50th anniversary season, it’s probably safe to say that Mr. Bowlus would be pleased with how his visionary gift has met – and possibly exceeded – all expectation.
“The one thing for me is just the inspiration of it all; that word to me is what it’s all about,” says Susan Raines, executive director of the Bowlus Fine Arts Center. “Mr. Bowlus was very interested in music … and he really wanted the students and the community to be proud of this.”
Opened in 1964 at 205 E. Madison – the first community arts center in the state of Kansas – the Bowlus Fine Arts Center has indeed been a source of pride for Iola residents over the past five decades…
Want to keep reading about the Bowlus Fine Arts Center? Check out the summer issue of Southeast Kansas Living, which is out now! It includes this story in its entirety, plus so much more. Subscribe now, or contact us to find a newsstand near you.