Carolina Artists Guild Launches Monthly Art Sale for Local Artists

The Carolina Artists Guild, based in Salisbury, is set to enhance visibility for local artists by launching a new monthly event called the Second Saturday Art Sale. This initiative will commence on February 14, 2024, running from 10:00 to 14:00 at the lobby of the Salisbury Post/CompleatKidz building, located at 131 W. Innes St. The event aims to create a platform for artists to showcase and sell their work while engaging directly with the community.

Cherrathee Hager, president of the guild, expressed enthusiasm about the event, highlighting the opportunity it presents for artists who have struggled to find venues to display their work. The monthly art sales will feature tables set up inside the venue, with hopes for outdoor displays and live demonstrations as well. “We have been discussing this idea for some time,” Hager stated. “Now, with the availability of this building, we can provide extra exposure for our artists.”

The Second Saturday Art Sale is designed to operate like a combination of a gift shop and an art expo, offering smaller pieces, prints, and live demonstrations each month. Vice President and technical coordinator Andy Mooney noted that this initiative stems from a desire to promote the guild more effectively. “Since we currently lack a permanent location, these monthly events will allow the public to become more familiar with The Carolina Artists and support our guild,” he said.

Artists affiliated with the guild will have the chance to interact with patrons, showcase their work, and even discuss commissioned pieces. Hager emphasized the importance of community engagement, stating that the event will offer an affordable alternative for art enthusiasts who may find larger pieces prohibitively expensive. “People can come in and find prints, cards, or smaller artworks that fit their budget,” she explained.

Mooney anticipates participation from approximately 15 to 20 artists at these events, with some members attending monthly while others may join occasionally. He also mentioned that participation in the sale could potentially boost the guild’s membership as individuals may wish to join after seeing the artists’ work firsthand. “We are always glad to have more people join us,” he added.

The Carolina Artists Guild has a history of community involvement, having organized Art Expos, workshops for children, and art classes in nursing homes. Hager noted that the Second Saturday Art Sale is a continuation of their efforts to connect with the community and raise awareness about the guild’s activities. “We want to let people know that we’re here, what we’re doing, and that we’re involved with the community,” she said.

Looking ahead, the guild has set a goal to secure a permanent location that would serve as a gallery and classroom space. Hager expressed gratitude for the opportunity to hold the event at its new location, emphasizing the official branding of the Second Saturday Art Sale. “We have a logo, and everyone will know that on those second Saturdays, we are going to be there with art,” she concluded.

For further details about the event and the Carolina Artists Guild, interested individuals can visit their website at thecarolinaartists.org.