The Gallery, a cooperative art gallery in Page, Ariz., hosted the Grand Opening of its new location on July 7. According to Gail Unger, vice president of the Grand Circle Arts Alliance (GCAA), the event welcomed between 45 to 50 people. Unger says that the evening was “very successful” and “fun,” generating more interest and sales.
From left to right, photos by Phil Clark:
Kendall Neisess sings and plays her guitar for the grand opening.
Officers of the Grand Circle Arts Alliance in Page, from left to right: Chantell (Tilly) Blanchard, Secretary; Gail Unger, Vice President; Wagner Kelly, President; and Cassidy Finn, Treasurer.
The Gallery offered refreshments provided by Ian and Jared Klay of Klays Essential Creations, and Four Corners Snack Wagon from Kaibito, Ariz., cooked up many favorites, including Navajo tacos, burgers and hot dogs in the parking lot. The Snack Wagon is owned by a Navajo family who has a passion for and a mission to share their food with the world. Be sure to look for them at the First Friday art walks. While those in attendance admired the art and talked with friends and new acquaintances, the evening’s pleasant and fun ambiance was further complimented by Kendall Neisess, who sang while playing guitar. Many commented how much fun it was to see some art and enjoy the summer evening.
The GCAA was the brainchild of Maschelle Zia and other artists in 2019 and be-came a reality during the pandemic. Since then, the GCAA has elected officers: Wagner Kelly, President; Gail Unger, Vice President; Cassidy Finn, Treasurer; and Chantell (Tilly) Blanchard, Secretary. GCAA is an official non-profit organization and donations are tax-deductible. The original location of The Gallery was in the pedestrian alley between Pow Wow Trading and ACE Hardware in Page, and was difficult to find from some visitors. The new location, at 71 7th Avenue in Page, is closer to hotels and more easily seen by visitors and locals. Parking in front of the Gallery makes it easier to stop and take a look around.
Providing visitors, tourists and locals an opportunity to support local artists, the interior of the gallery shows off a variety of art media including painting, photography, glass, wood, metal and others. Maschelle Zia, an artist and one of the 20 members participating in the gallery, is in the process of painting a mural inside the Gallery representing Horseshoe Bend. Future plans include offering wellness activities in a separate room inside the gallery.
In addition to The Gallery, GCAA sponsors a Paint and Pour event on every third Thursday of the month at LP Expresso.
With the new location, The Gallery is open Thursday – Sunday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Arizona time. The board has plans to expand the times the gallery is open to the public.
Unger says, “We are always looking for new members. Donations are welcome so we can continue to grow and start offering classes.” Membership in the GCAA consists of a nominal annual fee and isn’t limited to artists. Everyone is welcome to be a member. Currently there are 46 members. Of those members, some 20 members are participating in the Gallery. Anyone interested in joining GCAA, or artists wishing to sell their work, may send an email to grandcirclearts@gmail.com or visit grandcirclearts.org.
