The idea for The Workshop was born over dinner in September. Artists Dan VanLandingham, Lauren Coggins-Tuttle, Terry Crimmen and Tara Kenny were planning to rent a space together next spring, but when a building became available on the Vineyard Haven waterfront, they leaped at it, paintbrushes at the ready.
Tucked in between Jeff Serusa’s Seaworthy Gallery and the Gannon and Benjamin Marine Railway on Beach Road in Vineyard Haven, the former Century 21 building has been transformed into a working gallery, with four studios and three gallery spaces.
Last Saturday night the artists opened the doors to the public for the first time. Over 100 guests attended the opening which also included work by two local guest artists, Pinto Abrams and Frank Rapoza.
The concept of the space is still evolving. “People keep asking questions and we say, ‘well . . . we need to figure that out,’” said Ms. Coggins-Tuttle.
The Workshop is featuring work solely by the four artists. But they have many ideas for the future, one of which is to share their new space with other artists.
“If people want to put on shows we could provide that for them,” said Mr. VanLandingham. “We kind of want to have a space for artists that don’t normally have a venue to show in.”
“We haven’t worked out what the pricing would be, but whatever they sell they would keep,” said Ms. Kenny. “It could be a good way for artists that haven’t done it before to try it.” This offers a unique opportunity for artists who aren’t represented by local galleries. “A lot of artists are already saying, pencil me down,” she added.
For now the artists are enjoying having a designated space to create their art.
“We plan on the summer being pretty busy and there being shows frequently, but this time of year we might just have a Christmas show and after that just kind of be a working studio,” said Mr. VanLandingham.
“It’s going to be fun,” said Mr. Crimmen. “The important thing is, we all have a place to work.”
The Workshop is located on 32 Beach Road in Vineyard Haven. Gallery hours are Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and by appointment.
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