with over 500 original pieces diverse artwork

TThe gallery’s diverse display of art includes photography, painting, ceramics, jewelry, mobiles, woodwork, fabric arts, and pen-and-ink drawings that comprise over 500 original pieces by thirty-six local artists. The gallery is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. but stays open later for receptions and other downtown evening events. All the gallery selections are for sale, new pieces continually refresh the kaleidoscope of displays, and new artists frequently add their wares to the gallery’s eclectic collections.

As part of its year-long active calendar of events, ArtsNatchez features an Artist of the Month during which a special section in the gallery displays the artist’s collection; and an after-hours wine-and-cheese reception from 5:00 to 7:00 on the month’s second Saturday invites the public to meet the artist and immerse themselves in the creativity of the showcased works. This past June, the gallery held a Heritage Folk Art Silent Auction with items from an estate collection of folk art donated to ArtsNatchez for use as a fundraiser. Upcoming events include a book signing and book sale, children’s art activities, lectures, and special occasion receptions.

Another ArtsNatchez activity is Tuesday Artists: Every Tuesday afternoon from 1:00 to 4:00, artists gather at Natchez Coffee on Franklin Street and work their magic. These several hours foster camaraderie and spark creativity as attendees, either individually or in groups, devote their time to paintings, drawings, or other small projects. Anyone is welcomed to bring materials for a small project and join the gathering. No cost to attend is involved, and no signup or registration is required.

Most Tuesday artists come ready to create, but many come just to enjoy the company of other creative talents. Some weeks, just a couple of people gather; other weeks, aficionados fill the room. Only one rule applies at these meetings: Don’t leave a mess— take everything with you that you brought. Of course, all are encouraged to come early and enjoy coffee or lunch before getting creative!

Be sure to check out ArtsNatchez when you are in town or when you come downtown, and enjoy the gifts and talents of this area’s local artists.

Learn more about ArtsNatchez Gallery at its 425 Main Street location, at artsnatchez.com, on FB @ArtsNatchez, or at 601.442.0043.

ARTICLE | Cheryl Rinehart

PHOTOS | T. G. McCary, Leon Hollis, and Robin Person