Vern Riffe Center for the Arts

The Vern Riffe Center for the Arts (VRCFA), situated on the campus of Shawnee State University in Portsmouth, Ohio, serves as a cultural hub for the region. Named after Vern Riffe, a notable figure in the area, the center is dedicated to enriching the local community through the arts. The VRCFA is not only an educational facility for Shawnee State University's Fine, Digital, and Performing Arts department but also a vibrant venue that hosts a variety of performances, art exhibits, and provides rental opportunities for events. The center boasts a range of facilities including the Eloise Covert Smith Theater, the Kahl Studio Theater, the Howland Recital Hall, and the Appleton Gallery, each designed to accommodate different forms of artistic expression. Additionally, the VRCFA features a unique Virtual Reality Listening Room, enhancing the sensory experience of visitors. Public art installations such as "Road To Discovery," "Scioto Rhythm," and "Stairway to the Arts," along with Spencer Miller’s Wood Collection, contribute to the center's commitment to integrating art into the community. These installations not only beautify the space but also inspire and engage the public. The VRCFA is supported by various partner organizations and relies on the generosity of the community through attendance and donations, underlining the local commitment to maintaining a vibrant arts scene. The center's impact is evident, with frequent acknowledgments from the community about the fortune of having such a facility in the rural tri-state area of Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia. For those interested in exploring what the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts has to offer beyond public events, the center encourages curiosity and engagement, inviting individuals to delve into the less-seen aspects of the facility. The VRCFA's website is filled with images and information designed to spark interest and provide insights into the center's inner workings. The Vern Riffe Center for the Arts stands as a testament to the power of community support in fostering the arts and continues to be a beacon of cultural enrichment in the tri-state area.