Help the Arts Center and Elevation Bistro Celebrate Fifth Anniversary

Five years ago, the Mentone Arts & Cultural Center purchased the former Kamama building from the Town of Mentone. We signed the papers in June, did some upgrades, and solicited local and regional artists. We opened our doors on Oct. 22, 2020. Elevation Bistro had opened a few months earlier and was well on its way to being a much-loved and award-winning restaurant in the heart of Mentone.

We officially dedicated the building as the Chuck Sennett for the Arts shortly afterward. We’re proud to note that since that year, which was in the middle of the Covid pandemic, we have paid off the building (last summer) and sold more than a half a million dollars in local art — serving more than 70 artists and artisans. We have also held almost 50 art classes/workshops that drew hundreds of students locally and from across the Southeast.

We have played host to numerous musical acts and even an award-winning foreign film. Among the acts were two Grammy winners (Gary Baker and Kathy Louvin), The French Family Band (multiple Grand Ole Opry appearances), Japanese guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto, opera singer Lee Farrah Bailey, and many others.

On Wednesday, Nov. 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., we will host a joint celebration with the Elevation staff at the arts center. Highlighting both businesses and the overall property, which includes two gardens, we invite the public to join us for beverages and heavy hors d’oeuvres. The format will be much like our quarterly artists of month socials, with the exception of having access to Elevation’s space as well.

We look forward to seeing you there to celebrate with us and learn more about our story!

Over the past five years, the arts center has held nearly 50 classes and workshops, served more than 70 artists and artisans, and hosted celebrated musicians. Elevation Bistro continues to draw adoring guests and has garnered awards for its fare.