Beyond the Brush: Mt. Washington Arts Association
This gallery desires to collaborate with other arts and non-profit organizations to help build the arts community in the Mt. Washington Valley
“Lupines and Buttterflies” by Phyllis Tracy
Winter is here, which means that snow and long days cooped up inside with nothing to do are, too. To help stave off the grumpiness of this season, chilly temperatures, and cabin fever, we’re starting “Beyond the Brush,” a series of profiles introducing you to the many unique art galleries around New Hampshire.
For our latest profile, check out Mt. Washington Arts Association in North Conway. We spoke to team at the art gallery to learn more about their community focused, non-profit organization which exists to promote the study, appreciation, and display of the visual arts, particularly the art of the Mt. Washington Valley. Read on to learn all about the gallery.
Tell us about the history of your gallery.
Mt. Washington Arts Association: “In the 1960s, a small group of artists took action to support their beliefs that a vibrant art community was integral to the well-being of the Mt. Washington Valley. They acknowledged the historical importance of the White Mountain School of Art that brought together artists to express the beauty of the Valley and its surrounding Mountains. Since its inception, the Association has grown throughout the years to keep that initial idea alive. The biggest obstacle has been finding affordable, visible real estate to showcase the many talented local, as well as regional New England Artists. Currently we are a cooperatively run Arts Association and our artist works are showcased in our Main Street Gallery, as we once had space on Main Street.”
What makes your gallery special or different?
MWAA: “Mt. Washington Arts Association is community based, non-profit organization, which exists to promote the study, appreciation and display of the visual arts and particularly the art of the Mt. Washington Valley. We are also a non- juried association to help encourage artists of all skill levels and mediums to grow with us.”
What are you best known for?
MWAA: “We are best known for our annual ‘Art in the Park’ summer show under the Tents in Schuler Park. This year we will be celebrating the 50th ‘Art in the Park,’ which normally brings together about 60 artists to exhibit all mediums of fine art, sculpture and craft. We also showcase our artists in various themed shows throughout the year at the Main St Gallery as well as the MET Coffeehouse Galleries. We also have a year-round Friday Painters group Plein Air in the nice weather or studio in inclement weather and Monday Open Studio painting with Bill Fein who generously gives his gentle opinions and critiques. We love to collaborate with local businesses to help financially support our association.”
What keeps you passionate about the arts?
MWAA: “Our enthusiastic members keep us passionate about how powerful art is. We truly believe that art has a huge impact on people whether they understand it or not. It is the artist who can bring out the imagination and appreciation of the viewer on multiple layers of experience.”
How can people best support you right now?
MWAA: “Funding is always welcome as we are a non-profit and during these times we have had to limit some of our revenue making experiences. You can also become a member, visit our space with friends and family or offer grants or opportunities for our artists to showcase their work if you’re a business.”
