MISSION + HISTORY
Our mission is to promote the arts and sciences on Long Beach Island and the surrounding communities by enlightening, educating, and stimulating thought and discussion about current trends in the arts and sciences through educational and cultural programs for all ages.
LBIF is committed to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We do not discriminate against any individual or group of individuals on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identification, national origin, religion, race, sexual orientation, economic status or status as veterans. The LBIF welcomes all to our organization.
The History of LBIF
Founded in 1948 by Boris Blai, the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences is an outstanding community and cultural facility. Dr. Blai, a student of sculptor Auguste Rodin and founding dean of the Tyler School of Art at Temple University, envisioned a facility that would foster individuals and their talents. LBIF has continued this vision by offering thousands of classes, workshops, exhibitions, and educational programs to the community. Since its first season, LBIF has committed itself to the enhancement of the creative arts and the physical sciences, and though it began as a seasonal operation, LBIF has grown into a year-round organization providing a place for learning, free expression, and the exchange of ideas and understanding.
History Book
Long-time LBIF member and former board member Julie S. Berkowitz, has captured the long and interesting history of LBIF in a new book, The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences: A History: 1947-2014. The history begins with the Foundation’s establishment in the 1940s, then continues decade by decade up to the 2000’s, ending in 2014.
The launch of this book coincided with the art exhibition opening reception on Saturday, June 25, 2016 of “Then & Now,” an exhibit that tracked the history of the evolution of styles, mediums, and interests of faculty who continue to bring artistic excellence to LBIF, both past and present.
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