Cultural Information Center


	The cultural community had a vision to create a gathering place for residents and visitors of Broward County and in 1991, the idea for a one-stop shop for cultural information, tickets and coffee was conceived. The Broward County Commission’s Libraries Division offered space within the Main Library to house the Cultural Information Center. The Chamber of Commerce Cultural Committee kept moving this dream along. They were instrumental in acquiring pro-bono architectural design services. This preliminary plan was used in a grant application to the State Division of Cultural Affairs in 1999. Back to Top

	The Broward County Commission’s Cultural Affairs Division created a plan for the development of the Cultural Information Center. They applied for and received a National Endowment for the Arts grant for $32,000 to create a pilot e-commerce online ticketing program. The Cultural Affairs Division also applied for and received a grant from the Florida State Division of Cultural Affairs for $160,000 to plan and build the Cultural Information Center. Construction of the Cultural Information Center began in July 2001 and was completed in November 2001. Back to Top

	Components of the Cultural Information Center A public art marquee defines the entrance to the Cultural Information Center. The bright red artwork, complete with playful images carved into the metal supports, welcomes visitors into the lobby on the second street entryway. The public art was designed by artist Kim Krupnick. Ms. Krupnick also designed the entire Cultural Information Center. The Cultural Information Center consists of a retail store with merchandise on consignment from Broward-based cultural organizations. The purpose of the retail store is to promote local cultural organizations and the work of local artists. The store is operated by the Cultural Affairs Division through the assistance of volunteers. These volunteers provide an invaluable service as Cultural Concierge, adding a personal touch and service with a smile. Inside the store the multimedia display airs clips of upcoming events. The outdoor touch-screen computer kiosk provides a 24-hour resource for cultural information, maps, bus routes and tickets to events. When the Cultural Information Center is closed, the public still has access to the information. Other components include: gallery six, a fine arts gallery on the sixth floor of the Main Library; indoor and outdoor backlit posters; an “electronic billboard” and The First Moon Cafe, a coffe bar. Back to Top

	Kim Krupnick The Cultural Information Center was designed by local artist Kim Krupnick. Since 1984, she has integrated modern design and effectiveness in local restaurants and other public places including the Cultural Information Center. She emphasizes simple forms by using different materials and manufacturing techniques to sculpture new environments that are friendly to customers and engaging to the eye. Krupnick Studios, which opened in 1994, has given Kim, who is not only a partner but also lead designer in the firm, the opportunity to expand her visions. Over the past ten years, Krupnick’s experience in architecture and interior design has also led to painting including solo exhibitions and works in private collections. From being named the “Most Accomplished Design Student” while attending the University of New Mexico where she graduated in 1989 to a three time winner of the AIA Award of Excellence for Design (1997,1999, 2000) Kim Krupnick continues to take on a formal presence in our community fusing utility and beauty into functional working art. Back to Top

	Many local government agencies and arts organizations have partnered with the Cultural Affairs Division to provide funding, technical assistance and in-kind services to make the Cultural Information Center a place that serves the public. These organizations include: Broward County Library Broward County Office of Information Technology Broward County Mass Transit National Endowment for the Arts Florida Department of State Division of Cultural Affairs ArtServe Broward Center for the Performing Arts Sun-Sentinel Back to Top