Open Calls
What Do Open Calls Look Like with a One Gallery Space?
Once we move to 426 Broadway, we understand that the biggest change for our organization will be the downsizing to one gallery space. When choosing a smaller space, we took into consideration about what that meant for artists in our community. We had to work with our board to creatively problem solve and come up with a solution that benefits everyone.
Which artists will show in the main gallery space on Broadway?
The Visual Arts Cooperative (VAC) will be the artists displayed in our new gallery space. If you are unfamiliar with the VAC, they are a juried group of artists who work as a cooperative under the Arts Council. The VAC consists of approximately 30 local artists, spanning from Sikeston to Ste. Genevieve. Each month, they show brand new work and we are so excited to see them grow in our new space!
Where can other artists show work?
Our Exhibitions Committee worked hard to come up with a solution that allows more artists to show their work in our community. The committee will help the Arts Council recruit downtown businesses to become Friends of First Friday Members. These members will have the option to show artwork in their space on a bimonthly basis. For example, Spectrum Record Lounge could have a dedicated space on one of their walls for an exhibition of 10 pieces. They would participate in First Friday with the Arts and have an opening reception for the artist. This work would stay up for two months. The Exhibitions Committee would help find an artist that would complement the space and then help install and deinstall the exhibition.