The Work Center, in its continuing efforts to refurbish its historic structures, concentrated this past year on the restoration of the Days' Lumberyard Building. Thanks to the generous outpouring of contributions, the project was completed this past June. Through the New Day for the Days' Lumberyard Building campaign, nearly 200 friends and supporters contributed more than $100 each to pay for the exterior renovation project which involved insulating and
re-shingling, and the installation of thirty-nine new windows. Those who donated have had names and messages inscribed in the wood shingles on the building's west side.
This structure, believed to be one of the oldest buildings in the country built exclusively as artists' studios, was the home of an active lumberyard for much of the 20th century. In response to the swell of artists flocking to the new arts colony of Provincetown, the owners of the lumberyard added a second floor to the building in 1923 and rented the spaces as artists' studios for $50 a season. Throughout the years, many famous artists including Robert Motherwell, Hans Hofmann, and Edwin Dickinson worked here.
In 1972 the Work Center purchased the building, and has used the upper floors as living units for fellows and students since that time. The Work Center's gallery and administrative offices are located in the building's lower level. Through the years, many repairs and improvements were put into effect; there was a time when the staff working in the office wore coats inside all winter long. The external renovation project has sealed the building against drafts and water damage, preserving this historic structure for future Fellows to utilize and enjoy.
Many thanks to everyone who helped make this worthwhile project happen.
