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The Banana Factory, a community art center and gallery, recognizes the importance of the visual arts and has dedicated itself to promoting and sharing them with everyone, regardless of age, race or economic background. From gallery exhibitions by nationally-known artists to shows by local school children and summer employment programs for inner-city youth, the center is making the arts accessible to all. Established in 1998 "to kindle, support and celebrate the artistic, cultural and creative spirit of the Lehigh Valley," the Banana Factory has been a cornerstone in the revitalization of South Bethlehem and has rapidly become one of the main visual arts attractions in the Lehigh Valley and Eastern Pennsylvania. The Banana Factory's 63,000-square feet of space are occupied by two galleries, five large classrooms, over 20 artists' studios and much more. The anchor of the arts facility is the Fowler Arts and Education Center, named in honor of longtime Banana Factory supporters Marlene "Linny" and Beall Fowler of Bethlehem. The Fowler Center is a hub where students young and old can explore the visual arts, learn the latest in graphic and web design, or study digital photography. It's a place where the traditional arts meet the latest computer advancements, opening a whole, new world for those who are curious to find out where their creativity can take them. In addition to galleries, studios and classrooms, the Banana Factory is home to the offices of ArtsQuest, which owns and operates the art center, as well as the Bethlehem Area Vocational-Technical School's Academy for Video and Media Arts and the Pennsylvania Youth Theatre.