Some Thoughts from the Director

Almost every week someone says to me, The Madison Artists Guild is the most active art guild around! I have to agree. We have so much going on all the time that there are plenty of opportunities to get involved with whatever appeals to you. Another great thing about MAG is the breadth of talent among the group. Its true that members range from brave and excited beginners and serious students to casual Sunday painters and those aspiring to exceed amateur status. Rounding out the membership are dozens of practicing professionals, including those who have achieved acclaim and fame! But what if you're not an artist? You just love the arts and want to be around those of us who make art? We have a place for you too. Were delighted to have members who enjoy the company of artists and feel the need to see the Guild grow and prosper. Currently we have over 150 members and that number continues to rise.

Our artists enjoy many benefits of membership including opportunities to exhibit and market their work: the Cottage Gallery at Town Park, The Meiere House Gallery, and our on-line web gallery.  More exhibition possibilities are found in our many juried shows; Georgia in Bloom, the XLG SHOW @ TOWN 220, the Fall Photo Show and the Art Naturale show at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia.  If you are an outdoor painter, join us for the Plein Air Paint Out during the Spring Tour of Homes or the Twilight Paint Out at the Firefly Festival each summer!

I invite you to join our Guild and enjoy companionship with fellow artists and art lovers. We meet at regular monthly gatherings in addition to quarterly art openings and the many community activities that dot our calendar!  And don't forget, we also offer classes and workshops. Gary Weiss and Armand Cabrera have taught Plein Air workshops. And our most recent painting workshop was with renowned figure painter, Marc Chatov. Our classes are not limited to the traditional arts. Chef Kevin McGowan teaches a very successful Culinary Arts series through MAG.　 If museum hopping is a favorite past time of yours, we've got that covered too! We've scheduled personalized tours from the directors of the High Museum, the Swan Coach House, and the Morris Museum in Augusta.

I hope you'll consider taking part in an upcoming MAG activity and to get to know us. I think you'll enjoy the experience. I know I have!
Karen Strelecki
Executive Director