Join the Artists Association of Nantucket (AAN) as they continue to celebrate the rich and vibrant history of art on Nantucket throughout the month of August. Exhibitions, a sidewalk show, and an annual meeting round out a month of exciting events, workshops, and classes available at this community organization that recognizes and celebrates the visual arts on Nantucket.
This Friday, August 16 from 6 to 8 pm, the AAN will host an opening reception for their Artist/Patron Exhibition that will run in the Cecelia Joyce & Seward Johnson Gallery until September 2. This show features the best works by members of the AAN and will be juried by AAN board president Katie Trinkle Legge who has a “vast knowledge of island art,” says artistic director Robert Frazier, and “will review assorted works in oils, acrylics, watercolor, photography, mixed media, and ceramics for recognition or awards.” Visitors to the gallery will have the chance to see an exhibition that has been part of the AAN for 70 years, and is considered one of the “high points of the gallery season,” says Frazier. Solo Show Spotlight Artist, Kathleen Van Lieu who will talk about her work in a free event at 10am this Saturday, August 17 at the downtown gallery.
If you’re a member of the Artists Association, circle August 19 on your calendar for the AAN Annual Meeting at the Visual Arts Center on Amelia Drive. Beginning at 5pm, the AAN will review audited financial statements and endowment reports and review the association’s strategic plans and programming. New members will be welcomed and awards from the Artist/Patron Exhibition will be given. Other membership business will be covered in addition the board of directors election and recognition of the outgoing board members. If you are an AAN member interested in attending, reach out to AAN business manager, Lucy Cobb at lucy@nantucketarts.org or 508-228- 0722, ext. 12, to RSVP to the meeting.
Did you know that Nantucket’s Sidewalk Art Show is the oldest in the nation? Dating back to the 1930s, this Sidewalk Show initially began with artist Maud Stumm, and has evolved into a community event that is now hosted by the AAN. Next Saturday, August 24, head downtown to the Atheneum Garden from 9am to 2pm, where more than twenty AAN members will display their work be available to talk with visitors. The show is open and free to the public.
The Artists Association of Nantucket has more than 300 local artist members and offers a wide variety of year-round programs and exhibitions. For details visit nantucketarts.org or call 508-228-0722.