This fall the Lamprey Arts and Culture Alliance (LACA) is launching an artist-member run gallery at the Newmarket Millspace. Artists interested in applying to be on the inaugural roster are encouraged to submit five to seven digital images of artwork produced in the past two years and a brief (150 word maximum) artist biography to gallery@millspace.org with the subject: Artist Member Application.
“We are seeking artists looking for a home for their work,” says Millspace Gallery co-coordinator John Herman. “It’s not just a gallery; we are launching a supportive community for those young-at-art as well as those who have experience to share.”
Ahead of the call for artists, Herman has given gallery tours and solicited feedback from the creative community. “One artist I met with was Caleb Weinstein, an incredible glass blower and metal worker. He’s also a teenager,” says Herman. “As well as mid and late career artists, it is important to the LACA mission to offer emerging artists like Caleb a home too.”
Early on, Herman also met with local artist Val Toukatly who mixes traditional fine arts with modern interests like podcast production and live-stream illustration on Twitch. She is also a former mill gallery director and studio manager. She will coordinate the gallery with Herman. “By pooling talent and resources, artists can uplift themselves and each other,” says Toukatly. “We aim to provide a much-needed venue for folks to discover art while offering creatives the opportunity to reach new audiences.”
According to LACA board president Anna Visciano, the mission of LACA is to cultivate a shared space for creative arts and culture in the community. “The LACA board met virtually throughout the last year and a half, refocusing on facility upgrades to allow for more opportunities,” says Visciano. “We can't wait to introduce the Millspace Gallery.”
Since 2013 LACA has overseen the Newmarket Millspace, a non profit, volunteer-run venue boasting 5400 square feet of civic space, including a performance stage. Herman notes that a gallery was always part of the plan. He was a board member when the Millspace first opened. “I am especially excited to return to help bring this piece of the plan to life,” says Herman.
Further details on gallery plans and artist membership can be found at https://www.Millspace.org/gallery
Current Issue - April 2024