Press Release

Here is a copy of our press release:

Artists Join to Form Local Co-Operative and Gallery

(Buckhannon, WV 26201) The Main Street Artists Co-Op is a growing group of WV artists that share a similar goal: expanding opportunities for artists in Appalachia. Between the late summer and early fall of 2009, the Co-Op plans to open The Gallery at Sycamore Grove: an art gallery on 27 Main Street in Buckhannon, WV which will display the work of many artists. While many might wonder why this organization would venture into capitalism in economic times like these, the artists believe that the gallery will build a local interest for Appalachian art, as well as bring tourism to the region.

The mission of the Main Street Artists Co-Op is to develop appreciation for the arts in the community by providing a space for local artists to develop their work, as well as provide educational services to Buckhannon-Upshur and the surrounding region. As a result, the new space will promote the creation and sale of work by local artists, support tourism, educate the community, and provide professional opportunities for artists.

The Gallery at Sycamore Grove location, previously the historic Arlington Hotel, is currently receiving an interior facelift with volunteer help from many artists, community members, and West Virginia Wesleyan College. Bryson VanNostrand, a patron of the Arts, donated the space rent-free to the Co-Op for their first year of operation. For any artists or members of the Buckhannon-Upshur community interested in helping or becoming a part of this organization, or interested in jurying, please contact Co-Op Board Members Tom Lynch (tglynch@gmail.com) or Ron Hinkle (RonHinkle1000@aol.com).