Emerging artists can increase exposure for their work by joining the Watauga Valley Art League in Johnson City.
The WVAL was founded in 1969. The organization strives to increase a sense of community among artists, encourages artistic growth and holds monthly meetings that feature a program given by a guest artist.
The organization’s members also work to provide exhibition opportunities for artists, and they have done so with a program called the “Roving Gallery.”
“It is our attempt to bring art to the public,” said Patsy Reading, historian of the WVAL and committee member of the “Roving Gallery.”
Reading stressed there are many people who do not have the time or inclination to go to a museum or gallery.
The “Roving Gallery” places art in area businesses and public facilities. Each month, members display their art in a different location around the region.
During October, work by participating artists can be seen at various locations including the Johnson City Public Library, the Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce in Erwin, The Coffee Co. in Elizabethton, the Jonesborough Animal Hospital, the Gray Library and the Roan Mountain State Park Conference Center.
“We have gotten real good comments about it,” Reading said.
In addition to receiving positive feedback, participants have sold and had art commissioned.
Reading encourages students to inquire about he programs and welcomes new members. The minimum age for participants is 18.
The WVAL is open to artists who work in two-dimensional form.
Reading said the “roving Gallery” and the WVAL contain a diverse group of artists.
The groups welcome artists who are creating challenging and unique works of art. However, due to the challenges posed by exhibiting art in a business atmosphere, the “Roving Gallery” cannot exhibit works that might be considered “obscene” by viewers.
“We certainly welcome visitors to the meetings,” Reading said.
Meetings are held the third Sunday of the month at 2 p.m. in the Johnson City Seniors’ Center.
Membership in the WVAL is $20 a year and a $5 fee is required to join the “Roving Gallery.”
Membership forms can be found at locations including the Johnson City Public Library.
For more information, contact Reading at 743-7799, Sherry Daniels at 232-1585 or Carolyn Gouge at 543-1402.

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