The gallery was formed as a co-op in 1974 with 11 artists. The goal was to have a suitable place/space for the artists to display and sell art. They worked together to structure the group with a set of guidelines to address all aspects of the gallery. Those By-Laws are still being used today and over the last 49 years have only been adjusted slightly to address current-day issues and business practices.
Nancy Crawford, a charter member of the gallery, contributes the longevity and success of the gallery to the practice of carefully choosing quality artists who would enrich the gallery with both their artwork and their willingness to share in the duties of a thriving gallery.
In 1988, a group within the gallery formed another group, Art Affirmative, that worked together to build the gallery building at 1470 Highland Avenue, here in Melbourne. Crawford credits the opportunity to build their own building to a lot of hard work and dedication by the group, and the generosity of member Ellen Pavlakos’ husband, Andrew Pavlakos, who designed the building and led the construction project. This enabled the group to control the expenses of the gallery and to present their artwork in a modern, professional, and beautiful space. Several years ago, another group was formed, including many of our current members, to purchase the building from the original group.
We currently have 13 gallery members, with the same goal as the original. We strive to work together to present fine art in a professional, complementary space to the public, and to encourage artists in all stages of their art making.
COME CELEBRATE OUR 5OTH ANNIVERSARY WITH CAKE AND CHAMPAGNE!
MAY 3RD, 2024, 5:30-8:30 AT OUR FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK RECEPTION
