Since 2010, the Swartz Creek Area Art Guild has been a place of community, talent and learning. Founded by Nancy Olds and Karen Pinkston, the Guild is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to “Promoting interest in the visual arts through education and development of artistic activities.” The Guild is open to all fine arts and crafts creators with only one requirement: love and enjoyment of all things artistic. “We accept everyone who wants to become a member,” says current President, Sheridan Baldwin. “Our artists are local and have talent in a wide variety of mediums.” Guild volunteers operate the Swartz Creek Art Gallery located on Miller Road. Inside, you will find a wide-range of beautiful works including crochet, jewelry, glasswork, pottery, wood carvings, paintings, mixed-media, magnets and more. “Our artists are a talented bunch,” says Baldwin. The gallery is member-run and often relies upon volunteer help during classes and events.
One of the primary reasons the Guild was created was to foster and promote talent through education and classes are offered in a wide array of mediums such as mixed-media, pour, mandala, collage, acrylics, oils, water-colors and more. A bevy of children’s and youth classes are also offered, including the popular story-time art class. The Guild just added a new “live model” class they hope will be a big hit. “Any member can teach a class with fees determined by project and medium,” adds Baldwin. Education at the guild has been postponed during the health crisis, but the Guild hopes to begin teaching again in the month of September and early fall.
The gallery also holds both themed and individual art shows on various dates. Individual shows give members a chance to showcase their work in their own spotlight, which is often their first time to shine. It’s a member perk that most artists never get to experience. In October, the gallery is hoping to host a themed sci-fi show that is open to any artist who would like to enter a piece (there is a nominal fee.) Entries must be representative of science fiction or fantasy and artists will be eligible to win a prize in either the children or adult categories. The entries will be judged via public vote. Artists are invited to sign up at swartzcreekareaartguild.org.
With so many gifted artists throughout Greater Flint, every gallery is worth a visit. There are treasures everywhere and The Swartz Creek Art Gallery is no exception. Exhibiting works that everyone can appreciate, it offers up-and-coming artists a great opportunity to show their skills. It’s a little hidden dot of expression in Swartz Creek and is not to be missed.
The gallery is open Tuesday-Friday from 12-5pm and Saturday 12-4pm. Masks are mandatory and visitors must maintain social distance. For shows, class times and sign-up, visit swartzcreekareaartguild.org. If you would like to volunteer to help at the gallery or become a member, call 810.630.6076 or email swartzcreekareaartguild@gmail.com for more information.
Photos provided by Swartz Creek Area Art Guild
