Let me begin this post by relating a very sad rumor that came to me through the grapevine this week. Apparently, while a few galleries are benefiting well from the monthly First Thursday program on State Street, many more galleries are not seeing the benefit of the program and are thinking about pulling out altogether. I hope that the downturn in First Thursday attendance corresponds to the seasonal weather and darkness that accompanies winter. I am, therefore, hopeful that as the days get longer and warmer we will see attendance serge. Regardless of whether First Thursday produces much in the way of commercial gains for the galleries that partake in the event, it unarguably brings much needed attention and excitement to the local arts culture. I hope that if you are reading this you will help to support First Thursday by hitting State Street tonight to see some beautiful art.
In addition to supporting First Thursday tonight, a group of galleries have gotten together to create a program that unites art patronage with charitable giving. The Peregrine Galleries, Artamo, and Sullivan Goss have come together to help support the Unity Shoppe by making collections for local needy families. So, tonight if you show up at one of these three galleries with a jar of peanut butter you will receive a ART HELPS button and a sizable discount on any art that you purchase this evening. Furthermore, the galleries have promised that a portion of the proceeds of this purchase will also be given to the Unity Shoppe.
This is very clearly a win-win situation. If you are not familiar with the invaluable services that the Unity Shoppe provides for the less fortunate of our community, please follow the link above to their website.
You have three tasks for this evening (listed in order of importance): First, go see some beautiful art, which will help support First Thursday. Second, visit one or all of the three galleries above to let them know you appreciate what they are doing to support the local community. Last, if you are able get out your checkbook and take home something to hang on your wall.
Even in touch economic times the benefit of surrounding yourself with beautiful art is as large as ever.