Art Exposure, LLC

http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20100329/ARTICLES/100329664

Hampstead studio opens up possibilities for community

By Amanda Hutcheson

StarNews Correspondent
Wilmington, NC, Star News Newspaper

Published: Monday, March 29, 2010 at 8:58 a.m. 

Last Modified: Monday, March 29, 2010 at 8:58 a.m.

HAMPSTEAD | In a new, bright red barn in Hampstead, one woman is fulfilling a dream of creating an artistic and community center.

“I’ve always wanted to do this,” said Ellen Elder, the brain behind Art Exposure and a former art teacher of 30 years. “I’ve always wanted a big art studio where we could promote local artists, something for the community.”

Elder sat on a couch that had once belonged to her grandmother, in the middle of the center modeled after a barn, with large windows shining light on the artwork displayed throughout. Work studios line the edges of the building and a loft at the back has hosted everything from art classes to foster parenting groups. Recently, the loft served as the dance floor for a wedding reception. A small store at the back is packed with art supplies.

The building is home to the Art Exposure Artists Association, a group of fine artists who display and sell their art in the building.

Some rent the studio rooms on either side, and before a new member joins the association, all the members get a say. Elder said she envisioned a place for local artists to meet, work and interact.

“If you build it, they will come,” said B.F. Reed, one of the association members who rents studio in the space, referring to what she calls Ellen’s marvelous vision.

“That’s what I like about having a place like this, a place for people to see,” added Karen Crenshaw, one of the group’s first artists. “I can’t sell my work if it’s sitting in my studio at home. I’m out interacting with the public.”

The group hosts different art shows, with an opening on the second Friday of every month.

The events are open to the public and light refreshments are offered, Elder said. She is also hoping to add the performing arts, including music events and plays.

This summer will likely see a summer camp for children to learn about art. But Elder said she wants the building, located off U.S. 17 just north of Hampstead, to be available to all interests in the community.

She envisions the barn hosting luncheons, birthday parties, family reunions and receptions, as well as community group meetings.

“It’s like any art gallery, it just has some other things going,” said Elder. “We’re really in a rural area here. There’s not much like this, not many places to meet.”