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January-March 2016
Feature Art Under the Arches Gallery, Ajo by C.J. Shane |
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Ajo has taken another step toward becoming an Arizona arts destination when Art Under the Arches Gallery opened in late November, 2015. Art Under the Arches Gallery is a cooperative gallery which features more than twenty Ajo artists.
Jacqueline (Jackie) Andres, director of the new gallery and an artist-member, explains how the gallery idea developed:
“Early last summer I started thinking about the possibility of an artist’s gallery in Ajo. Tracy Taft, Executive Director of the International Sonoran Desert Alliance approached me asking if I would be interested in renting a store in the Ajo Plaza, knowing that I was thinking about a gallery. After looking at one of the available stores, Ms. Taft then suggested that I consider the space that was the Art Stop/Print Shop. This was a prime location in the Ajo Plaza. It was at that time the idea became a very serious one. “
Andres continues, “Over the summer months I researched what it would mean to run a non-profit, cooperative artist’s gallery. Research revealed that entering into an agreement with an existing non-profit would be the way to go. I am the President of Ajo Council for the Fine Arts, and thought it would be good for our mission statement to open a gallery. It took some time and lots of research, which was presented to the ACFA Board for consideration. By September, the ACFA Board approved the request to sponsor the gallery. Although, ACFA sponsors the Art Under the Arches, that is where the support ends. “
Jacqueline (Jackie) Andres, director of the new gallery and an artist-member, explains how the gallery idea developed:
“Early last summer I started thinking about the possibility of an artist’s gallery in Ajo. Tracy Taft, Executive Director of the International Sonoran Desert Alliance approached me asking if I would be interested in renting a store in the Ajo Plaza, knowing that I was thinking about a gallery. After looking at one of the available stores, Ms. Taft then suggested that I consider the space that was the Art Stop/Print Shop. This was a prime location in the Ajo Plaza. It was at that time the idea became a very serious one. “
Andres continues, “Over the summer months I researched what it would mean to run a non-profit, cooperative artist’s gallery. Research revealed that entering into an agreement with an existing non-profit would be the way to go. I am the President of Ajo Council for the Fine Arts, and thought it would be good for our mission statement to open a gallery. It took some time and lots of research, which was presented to the ACFA Board for consideration. By September, the ACFA Board approved the request to sponsor the gallery. Although, ACFA sponsors the Art Under the Arches, that is where the support ends. “
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An early exhibit in Art Under the Arches featured Lois Griffel, an artist from Green Valley. As well as painting Impressionist landscapes, Griffel also gives workshops in painting.
“The advantage for me in joining a co-op gallery is something I saw during the grand opening reception in November.” Griffel explains her interest in the new gallery. “I have been in galleries for over 30 years and I have never seen such enthusiasm for a new gallery as I saw [at the opening night]. I believe it stems from the intimacy that is living in Ajo. It was so obvious to me that everyone knew each other and were so supportive of Jackie's efforts in getting the gallery up and running. Ajo was obviously behind Jackie all the way and that is an important criteria. This is why I decided to join. Griffel continues, “Also, Jackie and I have been friends and fellow artists for many, many years (OK-- close to 40 - yikes!) I know she is an excellent business woman as well as an amazing creative artist. As an artist, I have to choose carefully where I show my paintings and to feel confident that a gallery will have the enthusiasm to work hard to sell and promote me.” |
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Photographer Tom Kiefer explains his decision to join the gallery, “It's great of Jackie to have pulled together a serious minded art gallery in Ajo, and I look forward to supporting her in any way that I can. As Ajo continues to make serious inroads towards establishing itself as a committed arts-supportive community, Art Under the Arches is an important step in helping to achieve that. |
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“I believe the advantage of having my artwork in the Art Under the Arches Gallery will allow me to reach a new market,” says A.O Tucker. “I also feel Jackie will do a great job of making the gallery successful.”
Joyce Dodd Harcharík says of her participation, “It’s good to show art in a gallery devoted to art. The gallery entices all ages. We have a great variety of work and all different price range starting with prints as low as $12. A lot of tourists have only room for small artworks. “ She believes the new gallery will meet those needs. Other active members of the new gallery are Loretta Musgrave, John Linton, and Hop David. |
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Denny Carriere is the featured artist for the month of January, 2016. Carriere will be showing both watercolor and egg tempera paintings. Carrier is an Ajo resident. He says of his participation in Art Under the Arches, “Aside from showing my work and making contacts outside of the Ajo community I think the coop is good for Ajo. The artists here haven't had a really good outlet for some time. The support of the community has been enthusiastic.”
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As for Jackie Andres herself, she says, “The paramount advantage of showing work in Art Under the Arches, is having a venue to sell in a fine arts gallery. I am originally from the New York City area, where I studied at the Art Students League for years. Living in the city and experiencing contact with famous artists and fine arts galleries was a terrific learning experience. Those experiences helped create this gallery in Ajo.” Contact Art Under the Arches at P.O. Box 163, Ajo, AZ 85321. Call 520-387-6505 or email artunderthearches1st@yahoo.com |
