FARMINGTON — A grand opening for Upcountry Artists Learning Center and Gallery will take place from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 10, in the new space at 218 Broadway.

About 15 member-artists have submitted paintings for display, said Mary Beth Morrison as she and Mardy Bogar arranged pictures Tuesday.

The public is welcome to meet the artists, check out members’ artwork, learn about Upcountry Artists and see what is planned for upcoming events, Morrison said.

The Learning Center will open Thursday. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, and noon to 3 p.m. Sundays.

Some of the 60-plus members of Upcountry Artists wanted to start doing something in the community, Kika Nigals said last month about plans to open the space.

It’s not only a space to feature the work of member-artists but also one where members can teach, hold workshops and programs, she said.

“We want people to feel comfortable around art,” Bogar said Tuesday. “A place to play with it.”

It’s a place for everyone to feel comfortable viewing it, she added. It’s also a place to bring people together, she said. It is hoped that all ages, from children to senior citizens, will come for the numerous shows, lessons, workshops and activities already planned at the art center.

During the open house Friday, a mural activity will be offered, Morrison said. Everyone will be given an opportunity to make their mark or drawing on an empty canvas.

The cleaning is done, the ceiling tiles fixed and now the pictures are being accepted and arranged, Morrison said.

A core group of members sought downtown space to offer the gallery and learning center. When they asked William Marceau about the Broadway space, he gave it to them to use and the group would pay for electricity.

The space remains for rent. If a tenant is found, the artists intend to look at other options, Nigals said

abryant@sunjournal.com

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