Visit Art Works Gallery in Grass Valley for a perfect holiday gift

THOUGH IT OPENED AMID THE GREAT RECESSION, the Art Works Gallery in downtown Grass Valley has been thriving, a tribute to its artists’ talents and the benefits of artist cooperatives.

This past May, Art Works Gallery at 113 Mill Street in a renovated Gold Rush-era building, celebrated its third anniversary. It has grown to 37 juried visual artists, helping to anchor a dynamic visual and performing arts community in western Nevada County.

The cooperative operates as a collection of artists who share in the daily operations and rent of the gallery. The cost to each individual artist is minimal, while the exposure gained is significant.

Those who have lived in the region for a while know how much the downtown has changed over the years. Stores come and go, each representing the desire to be part of a unique and wonderful community.

But the reality of economics has forced some entrepreneurs to close up shop. Going it alone can be a challenge, especially when the economy takes a downturn, as it has the past few years.

In contrast, the cooperative model has produced positive financial results for the Art Works Gallery, as well as many other cooperatives across the country.

Art enthusiasts also benefit from the cooperatives. Their buying relationship is direct from artist to collector. This allows artists to sell their work for less than it would sell for in a typical gallery.

Customers are often amazed at how little they pay for top-quality work. The local economy also benefits from this business model, not just the artist and consumer.

With the gallery’s success, the downtown area has become a more dynamic place to visit. The established art and cultural presence has attracted locals and visitors.

The gallery has added beauty and vitality to downtown Grass Valley, and through its winning business model, it will continue for years to come.

Local Art: A Perfect Gift

At the Art Works Gallery in downtown Grass Valley, an artist is always on duty to help you pick out the perfect gift. The artists also work together to keep the gallery fresh, rotating every three months.

The window displays at the gallery also are inviting, often featuring special exhibits. You can see a complete list of the artists at the gallery’s website, ArtWorksGalleryCo-op.com.

(artwork: “Aspen Headwaters” by Karel Hendee, a member of Arts Work Gallery).