Fiber Art Center closes: That's a little sad

It's not a good thing when a cultural institution closes due to lack of money. I learned from the Exhibitionist this week that the Fiber Art Center in Amherst is closing its doors May 9. I have to admit, I never went there. It seems I'm not alone. Finances are blamed for the demise of the insitution dedicated to weaving, textile making and related arts and crafts. But I couldn't help noticing this in their farewell statement (boldface is mine):

"For the past seven years we have had the great pleasure to celebrate and promote the work of over three hundred artists from the Pioneer Valley and beyond, offer over 250 classes, greet over one thousand visitors, and have a membership roster in the hundreds."

Round up to 1,100 and that's still an average of 157 visitors a year. Even if the classes are the main programming and exhibitions a sideline, that's not a number that's going to keep many art centers open.