The West Pasco Art Guild is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting participation and involvement in the fine arts through classes, workshops and shows.

Purpose And Philosophy

The West Pasco Art Guild (WPAG) is the oldest Art Association in Pasco County. WPAG exists to create, foster, and sustain interest in the involvement of the fine arts; to sponsor educational programs, displays and exhibitions; to increase the skills of its members; and to further the understanding and appreciation of the art on the part of its members and the general public.

History:

The West Pasco Art Guild, Inc. was founded by Mrs. Perle (Joy) Schmitt, New Port Richey, in December of 1962. The interest in this club was stimulated through a small group of people who met in Sims Park in 1959 and received art instruction from Mrs. Kathleen Strode and Mrs. Elaine Girouard. They gave two art shows a year in the park. The club was chartered and incorporated as a non-profit corporation engaged in the promotion of fine art in March 8, 1965 with Mrs. Perle Schmitt as the first president.

The first meetings were held in the Civic Center in Sims Park but since art lessons were prohibited in that building they moved to the old firehouse building on East Main Street in 1966, where the first art instruction classes began. Membership increased rapidly and the group soon outgrew this meeting place.

With the help of the City Council they obtained permission to move into the unoccupied old Kentucky Inn at 1000 South Blvd., New Port Richey. This location was used for five years. During this time many rummage and food sales were held to obtain funds. Consequently this very energetic group was able to purchase their own building, at the corner of Missouri and Jefferson Streets, the former St. Stephens Episcopal Church. This building contains a spacious community room, a gallery, large kitchen and is ideally located for art classes, exhibits and social activities.