20 Artists contribute to Westminster co-op by Missie Wilcox

20 Artists contribute to Westminster co op by Missie Wilcox

“Gallery taps Carroll's eclectic mix - 20 artists contribute to Westminster co-op” By Missie Wilcox

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Posted on www.explorecarroll.com 2/20/09

Carroll County's art scene recently revealed a bright spot in a bleak winter landscape with the opening of Off Track Art Gallery in downtown Westminster.

The gallery is a cooperative of 20 local artists, and is located at 11 Liberty St., at the corner of Main Street and Route 27. It's open six days a week: Monday through Wednesday, noon to 6 p.m., Thursday and Friday noon to 7 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

As one might guess from its name, the gallery is just beside the train tracks. However, the name also describes the artists being a bit "off center" and eclectic, with varied styles and talents represented in the diverse display.

During gallery hours, an artist member is present at all times. As a result, shoppers are guaranteed an interaction with an artist whose work is showcased.

"There is something really satisfying about knowing the person that made the object you just purchased," said Gail Elwell, one of the founding artists.

"If visitors stop by every time they come to Westminster, it's conceivable that they could meet a different artist each visit and be treated to a personal tour of that person's artwork," added Melinda Byrd, another local artist whose work is featured in the display.

The artwork offered is as varied as the artists who have created it. All work is original, and most artists are creating works that are exclusive to the gallery.

"The artwork will be that which no one has ever seen from me before," said Byrd.

The objective of the co-op is to sponsor the artwork of its members, and to provide support for the local arts community in Westminster.

"Downtown is a great place, and has the potential to be an even more wonderful destination with the arts as a centerpiece," said Pam Zappardino.

"I really hope that Off Track Art can play a part in making downtown Westminster a true arts and entertainment district," she said.

Off Track Art
Off Track Art Gallery, 11 Liberty St., Westminster, is open Monday through Wednesday, noon to 6 p.m., Thursday and Friday noon to 7 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artists include:
* Vestal Abbott, photography
* Sarah Abel-DeLuca, painting
* Melinda Byrd, painting, printmaking
* Christina Collins-Smith, photography and digital collage
* Kevin Dayhoff, painting, mixed media, digital collage
* Mary Decker, painting, mixed media
* Gail Elwell, sculpture, mixed media
* Judy Goodyear, jewelry
* Charlotte Laslo, jewelry
* Becki Maurio, photography
* Wasyl Palijczuk, sculpture, painting, drawing, photography
* Howard Riopelle, sculpture
* Cathy Sawdey, drawing
* Bob Sapora, sculpture
* Gordon Wickes, photography
* Vladimir Tzenov, painting, mixed media
* Linda van Hart, mixed media
* Robert Waddell, mixed media
* Susan Williamson, mixed media
* Pamela Zappardino, photography, mixed media

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Gallery taps Carroll's eclectic mix 20 artists contribute to Westminster co-op
By Missie Wilcox Posted on www.explorecarroll.com 2/20/09 http://tinyurl.com/c5strn

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