That's where you all come in...
I've had a hard time in trying to describe to people what I want to achieve, because I see it in my mind as a completed entity. I guess the best way to lay this out is using bulleted lists to describe both what I want us to HAVE, and what I'd like us to DO, or PROVIDE. I will then be asking for further ideas, and suggestions/help to make it happen. So, here goes...
I would like us to have a building/space large enough to house the following:
- At least one large studio/meeting room that can be used both as open studio space and as an occasional classroom.
- Gallery space
- Photographic studio and darkroom
- An area for 3-D art of all kinds (pottery, sculpture, metalworks, etc.)
- Pottery wheels and at least one kiln
- An art supply 'store', in which we sell supplies to members at wholesale prices.
- as much additional multi-purpose space as we can muster
- get 501(c)3 tax exempt status
- Make art accessible and affordable to the masses. Make it fun again! Remind adults how much fun it can be to get your hands dirty to create something beautiful!
- Provide use of space and equipment to any artist or group of artists who need it.
- Provide public art classes for all levels. Classes may be taught by art teachers & profs, professional or amateur artists.
- Have a gallery to show local artists. We should be known as the gallery of up-and-comers. My goal is to balance the needs of the artist with also trying to keep our gallery prices within reason. I want us to be known as the gallery for the masses. The average working stiff should be able to find a piece in our gallery that he loves and appreciates, AND can afford to purchase!
- Bring art back into the schools through volunteerism, artist-in-residence programs, etc.
- Give back to the community as much as possible. I'm envisioning at least one gallery show per year, with proceeds going to a chosen charity, fundraising events throughout the year, public art installations created at little or no charge to the city/county...
We are truly starting from scratch here, people! So far, we have nothing but an idea. If you are reading this, what I need from you, in addition to more ideas and suggestions, is your time, your dedication to making this a reality, and your expertise, whatever that might be.
We need help with getting a 501(c)3 designation, we need land and/or a building... Once we have the tax exempt status, anyone willing to donate property to us would get one heck of a tax write-off!
As I've said, I have a vision of this place up and running and fully functional. I know it is going to be a long road to get there. And as I said, I have no idea where to begin. I am busy with school and looking for work, so any help you can offer in any capacity will be greatly appreciated.
If you are interested in being involved in this process, please contact me through this blog, find me on Facebook (facebook.com/fyreandreign), or email me at chshire2020@yahoo.com.
We should have a co-op specific facebook page up soon, and at that time, we will also have an email and you will be able to sign up for a mailing list to receive updates and alerts to events. Thanks for reading!
Tina Berry
