The Art Space in downtown Montpelier, Ohio, was the setting for an open house sponsored by the Montpelier Area Foundation. The event was held in appreciation of area residents who were donors and supporters of the Foundation.
Pat Hofbauer of Montpelier catered refreshments, and presented a table filled with sumptuous hors d’oeurves. Wine and other beverages were also served.
Members and guests enjoyed their time in the gallery, gazing at original work by area artisans. The work displayed at the gallery included paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery, and other quality hand-crafted items. The gallery was also host to a display of photographs featuring visits to northwest Ohio of past presidents. The exhibit titled “Press Pass: Photographing Candidates and Presidents Visiting Northwest Ohio” is by Tom Waniewski and Jim Nowak. The photos had previously been on display at the Toledo-Lucas County Library. This exhibit will soon end so that holiday related work can be featured.
Art Space opened November 2011, by the Williams County Arts Council in order to promote local artists, artisans, performers, writers, crafters and others. Works can be purchased, and exhibits are rotated every two months. WCAC Board of Directors Chair Chris Kannel was on hand to explain more about Art Space. He said that he enjoys watching the reaction of people who walk into the gallery and find a work that resonates with them. He is happy to be able to promote local talent, and was particularly fond of a past exhibit featuring local high school artists. It is a non-profit organization, and they are always looking for volunteers to help at the store. Anyone wishing to become a Friend of Art Space can do so for an annual fee of $20. This will entitle them to a 10% discount on purchases, and they will receive special rates for classes and special events at Art Space. For more information, those interested can contact them at artspace.wmscounty@gmail.com.
Art Space is located at 303 West Main Street in downtown Montpelier, Ohio. They are open on Fridays from 4 pm – 8 pm, and on Saturdays from 9 am – 1 pm. On November 17, during Montpelier’s Olde Tyme Holiday Gathering, they will be open all day.
Following their time of enjoying artwork and the exhibit, members of the Montpelier Area Foundation met briefly to elect officers for 2013. Rachel Sostoi will serve as the new president, with Vice-President Jim Thompson, Secretary Susie Rockey, and Treasurer Laura Gray. Their next meeting will be held at noon on November 20 at the Montpelier Moose.