606 State Street Gallery in Bristol, Tenn., is an artists' co-operative showcasing artwork by artists from Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and Western North Carolina. (www.jeffreystonerphotography.com)
606 State Street Gallery
Bristol, Tenn. • 423-573-2438
www.606StateStreetGallery.com
The "new kid on the block" is an artists' co-operative showcasing member artists' artwork. There are currently 35 members of the co-op from Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, as well as Western North Carolina. Since opening earlier this year (mid-March), co-op membership has increased, the variety of art has expanded, and sales have met expectations.
The gallery is managed, manned and maintained by member artists - from staffing the gallery and sales desk, to handling the hanging, lighting, jury of artwork, publications, etc. In addition to promoting one's own work, co-op members have an opportunity to study the work of other artists and be inspired by fellow artists demonstrating their talents on site.
The venue is beautiful and spacious. The atmosphere is relaxing and quiet. Each artist has a unique style, and many have received recognition in a variety of shows outside our region. Canvasses fill the walls with images of running horses, grazing sheep, roaring lions, colorful birds, floral arrangements, abstracts, abandoned vehicles, and much more. Displays also include two- and three-dimensional art, stained glass, sculpture, metal work, and jewelry. Classes and workshops will be taught by member artists and guest instructors on the upper level of the gallery.
June Simmons, spokesperson for the co-op, says, "A primary goal of our gallery is to develop public awareness of art and increase interest and awareness of our gallery and what we have to offer. We want the public to not only buy, but to come in and browse and get to know us. We pride ourselves on our art, and we are determined to make the 606 State Street Art Gallery successful. Our clients are from the local area as well as other parts of the country, and our member artists' future depends on their love of art."
She continues, "To be an artist takes dedication, work and considerable skill. I personally find that painting is very gratifying. To become an artist is to learn to see what's really in front of you. When driving around the countryside, there are so many beautiful and interesting things to see, and it's such a joy seeing that scene come to life on a canvas. It's a good feeling to have that sense of achievement."
THERE'S MORE
-- Kil'n Time
