CRESTVIEW — North county artists can expect more gatherings for sharing creative techniques after an organizational meeting's attendance exceeded expectations.
Eighteen painters, fabric and textile artists, photographers, a wood craftsman, jewelers and sculptors attended the March 20 organizational meeting at the downtown Journey Java Connection.
The response pleased textile and bookbinding artist Mary Richardson, who served as moderator.
"I was thrilled by the turnout," Richardson said. "In my mind, I was hoping for 10 people…"
The local artists' guild's next meeting is tentatively 4 p.m. April 17 at a location to be announced soon, Richardson said.
At the kickoff meeting, artists discussed their philosophies about art, described their areas of interest, and were unanimous in their desire to maintain the group's informality.
Attendees said they find inspiration and encouragement in observing other artists at work.
"I would like to see some actual demonstrations," professional painter Johnna Esteberg said. "It makes the meetings more productive."
The group will facilitate such observation and networking opportunities, Richardson said.
"We want to have a program or demonstration or workshop at each meeting, something for people learning new techniques and to share ideas," she said.
That will be particularly beneficial to multi-talented artists like Trace Connolly, who works in a variety of media including wrapped jewelry and ceramic painting.
"I can never do just one thing," she said.
WANT TO GO?
The local artists' guild's next meeting is tentatively 4 p.m. April 17 at a location to be determined soon. Contact Mary Richardson, 537-0340 or Maryj19mr46@embarqmail.com, for more details.
Email News Bulletin Staff Arts and Entertainment Editor Brian Hughes, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: New north county art guild plans next meeting, demos