Special to The Leader

 

Beginning Wednesday, July 19, 2017, all visitors will be admitted to Stark Museum of Art and Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center free of charge.

Since 1961, the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation has provided a long history of service to the Orange County and Southeast Texas community. Free admission will offer a more widespread positive impact for visitors by removing financial barriers to daily visitation. This strategic decision was made to continue program growth, achieve mission fulfillment and offer additional opportunities to enjoy the venues now and in the future.

President and Chief Executive Officer of the Stark Foundation Clyde V. McKee III notes, “This plan includes a streamlining of operations which will result in efficiencies to place the Foundation in a better position to focus on our core mission of education.”

McKee has personally thanked staff for their “trust and commitment to The Stark Foundation and the continuing efforts in delivering on our mission.”

The Stark Foundation carries out its mission through the programming efforts of each of the Stark Cultural Venues and seeks to encourage and assist education and to improve and enrich the quality of life in Southeast Texas. The mission-based venues, programs and activities provide the community and region with rich resources and opportunities for study and the enjoyment of the arts, history and nature.

Hours of operation for the Museum and Gardens are Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Outpost Tours at the Gardens are offered with seasonal hours and are dependent upon weather.

Entry to The W.H. Stark House will not be offered at this time in order for staff to restructure tours and offerings. However, the House staff looks forward to providing concise and educational programming choices in 2018 and beyond.