The Jerome
Artists’ Cooperative Gallery kicks off its 20th Anniversary
Celebration on May 7th, during Jerome’s First Saturday Art walk, from 5-8
pm.
In 1996, a
small group of local artists dreamed of having a place of their own to showcase
their work. Through the concerted efforts of local artists and local business
supporters, their dream quickly became a reality when the town of Jerome
offered the newly forming Co-op, the ground floor of the historic Hotel Jerome
as their storefront. The Co-op has been a resident tenant ever since; growing,
expanding, and sharing colorful local art with the Jerome community and its
visitors for the past 20 years.
Victoria
Norton celebrates her own personal journey as a long-time member of the Jerome Co-op
with her new tryptic in clay, entitled, “Abstract Celebration.” Ms. Norton’s intention to stretch her
limits demonstrates what is possible for a Co-op member. Stretching and growing
is encouraged in the Co-op environment so that artists are kept engaged, and patrons enthralled.
Marjorie
Claus celebrates her membership in the Co-op as a batik artist by referencing
her Indonesian roots where she first learned batik. She chose to depict a
Balinese Barong, a mythological character, which symbolizes the Force for Good.
Marjorie comments, “The Co-op has endured many struggles over the years. Our
members are resilient, and the Force for Good at the Co-op always win out!”
Sid Freeman,
calligrapher, celebrates her participation in the Co-op with, “Together,” from her
new series of “narrative paintings.” In “Together” Ms. Freeman explores the notion
that the words “he, she and we,” written calligraphy-style in a painting can visually
express their meanings. In
“Together,” Ms. Freeman uses a mix of spirals and other symbols that represent the
Co-op’s 20 year history of growth and change as our members have worked together
to make the Co-op what it is today.
“Celebrate
with us!” is a diverse showing of artwork from 35 members. A reception for the
artists will be held May 7 (Art Walk) from 5-8pm. Entertainment will be provided
by the notorious John Ziegler and Sally Stricker Duo, who incorporate into
their performances a wide variety of influences that range from standard and
contemporary folk and pop to more obscure cabaret and ethnic stylings. “Celebrate with us!” will be a festive event
you won’t want to miss!
“Celebrate
with us!” runs May 7-June 29.
Open Daily
10am – 6pm.
Jerome
Artists’ Cooperative Gallery, 502 Main St.
