Celebrating 5 Years Where Artists Meet in Cary

Cary, NC- A few years ago, Ralph Ashworth wondered aloud: “Wouldn’t it be nice if Cary had a co-op gallery?” He had seen co-op galleries on his travels and thought the concept made sense in the growing community he called home.

He suggested the idea to Winnie Ferguson, and five years ago the gallery known as The Cary Gallery of Artists became a reality. Located in Ashworth Village on South Academy Street, the gallery has grown to  25 members. Winnie told me that the original members (Diana Coyden, Jerry Miller, Winnie, Patricia Pittman, Ann Howe, and Diane Starbling) created a group where everyone shares in the running of the day to day operations.

The Cary Gallery of Artists will celebrate their fifth anniversary in October with a Landscape Show.

5th Anniversary Landscape Show

The show will open October 1st, and awards will be announced at the artist reception from 6-9 pm.

The “2010 Landscape Show” will be judged by renowned artist Susan Sarback. Susan is a master colorist and founder of The School of Light and Color. She has also written two books, and taught classes and workshops through out the US and Europe. The entry deadline for this show closed on August 30 and chosen artists will be notified by September 17.

Most of the members live in Cary, with a few from Raleigh and Apex. The artists work in a variety of media: oils, acrylics, pastels, jewelry, pottery, photography and fiber art.

Each month on Final Friday, two member artists are featured. Winnie explained that September is when their “new year” begins and typically the newer members are given preference for the new season.

To become a member, artists must submit their works to a jury. The group is selective which keeps the quality high in the gallery, and space is at a premium.

Final Friday is also part of the Cary Art Loop typically with shows at Jordan Hall, Town Hall, The Russian Art Gallery, Page Walker and Herb Young Community Center.

If you haven’t visited lately, or ever, check out a Final Friday. You can expect great art, food, wine and music. What better way to end the week?