Calling all artists!
The Rye Arts Center is looking to transform Purchase Street into an open-air gallery this fall.
The project, called Art for Purchase, is seeking creators and urging local businesses to help showcase artwork by “emerging talents” and “seasoned” pros, according to the Rye Arts Center website.
The, initiative, in its infancy, is set to take place from Sept. 13 to Oct. 11.
“We’re hopeful this project will drive foot traffic to local businesses and increase visibility for artists — many of whom are small businesses themselves,” said Lauren Emerson, the marketing and digital experience coordinator of the RAC.
The arts center wants artists working in all 2D mediums, including painting, photography, or mixed media, and businesses who are willing to host such artwork. The goal, they said, is to turn “their storefronts into mini galleries.”
Art for Purchase aims to involve about 20 to 30 businesses, “but it’s a selective process,” Emerson said.
The initiative will pair artists and businesses based on style, space, and interest, so not all applicants may be matched.
“Still, the more the merrier,” she added.
The deadline to apply is July 7 and artists need not be based in Rye. In fact, “we’re especially excited to see interest from outside the area,” Emerson told The Record.
“Applications have been rolling in quickly,” she added. “These kinds of community art initiatives always generate a lot of enthusiasm.”
Sarah Mackay, project leader and exhibitions curator/gallery manager at the RAC, presented the project at a recent Rye Chamber of Commerce meeting to an overwhelmingly positive response, according to Emerson.
The Rye Arts Center will activate the Village Green on Sept. 13, for the opening day.
All displayed works will be available for purchase, with artists retaining 70 percent of the sold commission while 30 percent goes to the Rye Arts Center. The artists will determine the sale price themselves.
“We believe artists know their work best, so we put the power in their hands,” Emerson said.
The application for artists requires a submission fee, 100-150-word bio, 5-8 artworks, and links to socials.
The application for businesses requires a submission fee, 100-150-word business description, an image of their logo, an estimation of how many pieces it can accommodate, and links to socials.
The arts center will also launch a “robust promotional campaign,” wherein artists will be featured on the RAC website, Instagram, and Facebook pages leading up to and throughout the event.
“Join us in creating something unforgettable—where art is not just seen, but felt, lived, and shared,” the Rye Arts Center wrote in their announcement.
