What is the Artists’ Co-op?

The co-op is an artist run gallery. Artists volunteer time to staff the gallery and operate all aspects of the business. There are no gallery commissions, sales go directly to the artist. We also offer the unique opportunity for you to actually meet the creator of the art, because the person at the desk is one of the artists.

Artist run galleries are a great place to make a purchase with investment potential. The artist is allowed the spontaneity to show exciting new work and the freedom to price at their own discretion. It’s fair game to check the artist’s resume before you purchase, this will show you the artist’s professional accomplishments and help you feel comfortable with a purchase.

We ship art.

If you fall in love with something in the gallery but don’t live around here, don’t worry. Depending upon the type of artwork (painting, sculpture, glass etc.) we have lots of creative ways to get it to you safely. Each artist arranges their own shipping, so have the artist-on-duty call that person to find out how they would go about shipping and approximately how much it would cost.

Who shows artwork here?

We have 33 members who are selected by jury (once per year). We keep a balance of two-dimensional and three-dimensional artists who work in a variety of mediums. Most are seasoned artists with impressive resumes, some are new talents with bright futures. Most artists also show in nationwide shows, art fairs, and in commercial galleries on a local and national level.

On a regular basis, each artist shows approximately 3-5 pieces. More pieces are shown in the artist’s biography book (by the coffee table and chairs). Once a year, each artist will be “featured” with 2 or 3 other members. Pick up a calendar for our Feature Show listing. We also hold an all-member holiday show.

First Saturday show openings, an excuse for a party. To kick off our Feature Shows, we hold fun show openings on the first Saturday of each month, 7-10pm. Show openings are a very casual open house style. They are always FREE and always open to the public. You never need an invitation, just come.

New art every month. The gallery changes completely every month. Feature shows are in the front third of the gallery, which still leaves plenty of space for the other members’ work. Each artist changes out his/her work at the beginning of every month, so come in frequently to see what’s new!

If you are looking for a piece you have seen in the past, please ask the artist-on-duty for information. We can probably help you figure out who created the piece, then call them. Unless it has sold, the artist would be happy to bring it in; it’s not an unusual request or an obligation to purchase. Or, let the artist know and they can show the piece again soon.

Either way, they’d be flattered that you noticed and remembered.

We are also very proud of our community involvement. We sponsor exhibits through the public schools which showcase the talents of children and teenagers. In addition, we have a “Visiting Artist Program” which places an artist in a local school or organization for the day. As individuals, and as a group, we participate in community fund-raisers and share our experience in the art world (judging art contests, hosting art tours). We also host special events and meetings for groups (for a small donation) . 

we get to show you what we do, you get to use the space. It’s a fantastic place for a crowd, we throw great parties.

First Saturday show openings “the official rules”

Dress Code: Anything goes, wear whatever you want. We’re very casual.

Invitation: Not required. Come, bring friends. There’s no cover charge. If you would like to receive information for future shows, complete the mailing list request form at the front desk.

Food, Drink & Music: It’s always free, every month. Consider it a cheap date.

Knowledge Level: None required. Your opinion counts.

Questions: Please ask! Artists love to tell you about their work. All questions are good questions.