CELEBRATING PLAYHOUSE OF DESIGN ART CLUB’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY — Pictured are from left, Nilda Perez, Del Williams, and Ron Williams. The Playhouse of Design Art Club celebrated its 50th anniversary this past May with a dinner. The club was started in January 1960 by a group of local artists who wanted to help the community become more aware of art and its many aspects.

The first president of the art club, Neldene Ferguson Matusevich, expressed it best years ago.

She said, “This is a culture town. We have the college, musical and theater groups but there has been no place for those interested in the visual arts.”

For years, the club has been involved in many different projects in the community.

One of the first activities was the Art Jamboree at the park where they would display their artwork for the public.

Another activity they were known for was Fiesta de Colores. They are still currently helping art students with college scholarships.

PLAYHOUSE OF DESIGN TURNS 50 — Pictured are from left, Dr. Richard Schepereel, Bill Renfrow, Neldene Ferguson Matusevich, and Peggy Westbrook. The name Playhouse of Design was decided upon when the group met at a house to be used for painting and sculpture studio as well as an exhibit gallery.

The house was then located in the 500 block of E. Kleberg. They are now meeting at Seller’s Market in downtown Kingsville every fourth Monday of the month at 7 p m.

The club has guest speakers and/or art projects at each meeting, which meets from September through May with an art show throughout the month of May.

The club also sponsors workshops featuring wellknown artists or experts in their field.

Neldene Ferguson Matusevich, was the honorary guest at the celebration dinner at Cherry Tree Tea Room, along with Ferguson Matusevich, there were four other special guests: Dr. Richard Shepereel and Bill Renfrow, art instructors from Texas A&M University-Kingsville, and Ron Williams and wife, Del, from Seller’s Market.

The club’s current president, Nilda Perez, presided over the dinner. Ferguson Matusevich along with the older members shared their adventures and joys of times at Playhouse of Design. Recent members also shared their excitement of what the club means to them and the upcoming possibilities.

According to the members the future looks bright for the art club.

Some members’ artwork is on display or for sell at Seller’s Market.

Their latest project is a 15-month 2011 calendar of some of their works. Calendars are also sold by members and at Harrel’s Kingsville Pharmacy and all proceeds go to the art scholarships.