GALA To Shut The Doors Of Art Center

GALA To Shut The Doors Of Art Center
Financial woes are forcing it To close after less than a year
Katie Landeck
News Staff Writer

GARDNER  After less than a year, the Gardner Area League of Artists is closing the doors of its Art Center for financial reasons.

“We had to give it a go,” said President Kevin Bird. “The membership was asking for it. The board wanted to do it ... but it’s over for now.”

For the last 12 years, GALA worked toward opening an art center, to give the nonprofit organization a space to host workshops, shows and events. Last year, the group jumped at an opportunity to open such a space at 205 School St., where many local artists have established studios.

However, rent for the space was quickly draining the organization’s bank account while turnout to the events was smaller than hoped.

“We were in denial as long as possible,” Mr. Bird said. But, “we need business people and financial people who are interested in helping raise funds for the creative community.”

Having the center, he said, was a worthwhile learning experience and helped to increase the group’s membership. If another opportunity came up to open a space rent-free or very inexpensively, GALA would try again.

“We’re not dead yet,” he said. “If any viable space comes up, we’ll take it. Something might be in the works. We’re not out of the picture.”

Next time, however, they hope to have more support from businesses or the city as financial partners and a part-time paid position to run it. This model has been successfully employed in communities such as Worcester and Leominster, according to Mr. Bird.

As GALA member Ashley Bird noted, for every dollar spent by an arts organization it generates $2.30 in sales for nearby businesses, according to research by MASSCreative.

“This area needs the arts so much,” said Ms. Bird. “It’s important.”

While the center won’t officially close until June 30, volunteers were there on Friday packing boxes and taking down art. The Winchendon Historical Society will store GALA’s supplies, which members were thankful for.

The mood was melancholy, with many people disappointed with how the venture ended.

“It wasn’t a failure,” said GALA member Chuck Heidorn. “It was a long-term experiment, our biggest show. ... It was a joyous run.”

While the center is closing, Mr. Bird has promised to maintain his commitment to growing the organization.

The group will continue to host its annual spring show and artist critique groups and add more plein air outings. The group has also worked with the Murdock-Whitney Museum and is considering adding a juried exhibit and artist markets.

Currently, GALA is selling wine with custom labels to restore its coffers. For more information, go to galagardner.org.