A Note To Our Supporters

Over the past two weeks, Verge Center for the Arts (“VERGE”) has been the subject of online efforts to tarnish its reputation and standing as a trusted community asset. Neither of the two individuals leading this effort are directly associated with VERGE. They are not now, nor have they ever been, employees, board members, vendors, or resident artists at VERGE. 

We have acted responsibly to ensure the well-being of staff, artists, and the venue.  We unequivocally stand by our actions and believe that when the facts of the matter can be made public it will be clear that the irresponsible and inflammatory allegations circulated online are false or misleading. 

To that point, it is important for the public to know that we have applied for a protective order against one of the individuals involved and we have been granted a hearing by the courts. We will continue to pursue all legal avenues necessary to protect the well-being of volunteers, staff, artists, and visitors at VERGE. On behalf of the Board and supporters of VERGE and the arts community we will not tolerate threats in any form and will take the steps necessary to ensure everyone can feel safe and welcome at VERGE.

Since its establishment, VERGE has provided vital resources to regional artists. Before VERGE, there were no facilities of its kind in the region. VERGE has offered low-cost and, at times, free studio space to over 100 artists in the last 14 years. In addition to artist workspaces, VERGE has provided access to specialized resources like a clay studio, a Risograph machine, reciprocal membership benefits that gain them access to partner institutions nationwide, and free attendance to VERGE public programs. 

One of our finest programs, Sac Open Studios, last year brought out close to 30,000 people who visited over 250 contemporary artists in our region over two weekends in September. This event supports and promotes local artists of all types, preferences, colors, beliefs, genders, abilities, and ages.

Nevertheless, VERGE believes that anyone should be free to express their opinions. VERGE strongly supports their right to do so. We only ask for civility, openness, and honesty in that expression.

We thank our supporters for standing with us as we work to overcome the damage caused by the reprehensible allegations being spread on social media.