The following is a guest blog post by Mary Stewart of the Cape May Artists’ Coop.
Cape May Artists’ Cooperative Gallery Anniversary
It’s hard to believe we’ve been in our new gallery for a year already!
I’ve been a member of the Cape May Artists’ Cooperative Gallery since it began as a pop-up store on Broadway at Christmas time 2009. The concept was simple – a members run gallery with great local art. We had enough success in those two months to think this was a venture with a future. We also had two very inspirational leaders- Janet Payne and Paige Cunningham.
By August 2010, we were in the West End Garage when it opened. By 2013, we had decided that we were ready to leave the nest. We were fortunate to find a location just a short walk away at 122 Sunset Blvd. Like anyone looking at a new property, we were concerned about the neighbors and we happened to find some great ones- Exit Zero Store, Cape May Honey Shop, Accent on Beauty to name a few.
We’ve had lots of growing pains, a little anxiety and a few surprises along the way.
A few artists have moved on since we started; a few new artists have joined us. Through it all, we’ve grown and matured, both as artists and business people. It’s amazing the skills you develop when you have no other choice!
We’re grateful for the support we’ve gotten from our friends and neighbors and visitors. We were thrilled to win Cape May Magazine’s Best of Cape May in our first year. I can’t tell you how great it is to hear people admire our local art (much of which is inspired by this great place we live).
All of us want to share our success with you so we’re having a first anniversary celebration in the gallery on February 14 and 15. Come and celebrate with us.
If interested in being a guest blogger on CookeCapeMay.com feel free to contact us.
1 Comment