Summertime, and the living is easy

If the headline were only true for those of us in the art business. As you continually look for ideas to grow and build your businesses, a summer of relaxation just isn't in the cards. There are exhibitions to arrange, artists to introduce, parties to organize, special events to plan, art to sell ... and then, there's the planning of the fall and winter schedules of events.

In our cover story this month "Galleries Go for 'The Buzz,' Editor Joe Jancsurak shares what galleries from all over the country are doing to keep their galleries vibrant and profitable.

From the hundreds of press releases that I receive every month, I would like to share some ideas with you, so that you can see what others are doing.

* The Michael McCormick Gallery is having "Santa Fe Style in Downtown Providence." It is Rhode Island's first and only gallery to offer authentic American Indian pottery, sculpture and collectible jewelry directly from the most sought-after artist of New Mexico. A Southwest themed menu will complement the social event, and a Native American artist, K.M. Lingad will be on hand to answer questions.

* Brushstrokes Studio Gallery in Denver will present "Interpretations: The Unveiling." Twenty-one new paintings from artists, John K. Harrell, Kit Hevron Mahoney and Anita Mosher will be "unveiled" at the event. The artists have painted the same subject matter, using their own interpretation of the chosen image. Although the artists painted in the same studio, they will not see each other's finished work until the opening night reception. This concept will create an element of surprise for the artists and the viewers, and will create an exciting atmosphere for displaying their unique artistic vision.

And for those of you planning ahead for next year, here are a couple of ideas that we received this month regarding Mother's Day celebrations.

* Gallery Chiz, Pittsburgh, will feature artist and teacher, Ben Thomas, doing his art in their gallery window at their Mother's Day Open House. He will be their first "Artist in Action."

* The Coconut Grove Gallery gathered three influential women to improve Mother's Day for battered women. "Through her Eyes" is an art exhibition featuring artwork of various style and genres, but the art will all focus upon the unique talents with a female perspective. Plaques will be awarded to three women who have contributed to their community in entrepreneurship, volunteerism and motivational speaking. Donations will be gathered at the door, and a portion of the art sales will be donated to the Miami Rescue Mission's Center of Women and Children.

If you have an idea that you feel is unique, please let us know. We will look forward to hearing from you.

All the best,

SUSANNE CASGAR

scasgar@pfpublish.com

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