The Gmeiner Art & Cultural Center is pleased to welcome the Elmira Regional Art Society (ERAS) for their upcoming exhibition, “Spectrum: A Celebration of Many Voices.” This expansive showcase will be on display in the Main Gallery from May 2nd through May 24th, offering the public a unique opportunity to view works from one of the oldest continuously running art organizations in the United States. To kick off the festivities, an opening reception will be held on Saturday, May 2nd, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Guests are invited to mingle with the artists, enjoy light refreshments provided by hosting group Wednesday Morning Musicales, and be among the first to experience a collection that radiates the creative energy and diverse perspectives of the region’s premier creators.
In conjunction with the exhibition, ERAS President Lee O’Connell will host a special “Introduction to Watercolors” class on Sunday, May 3rd, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM in the Gmeiner Studio. This class is specifically designed for adults who are eager to explore the medium in a supportive, hands-on environment. The registration fee is $30, which includes all necessary materials, making it an accessible opportunity for beginners to learn from an experienced artist. Space is limited, and interested participants should pre-register and direct questions to Director Melina Moyer at director@gmeinerartculturalcenter.org.
The Elmira Regional Art Society boasts a storied history that dates back to its founding as the Elmira Art Club on February 3, 1869. Now 157 years old, the society has evolved into a broad regional force, representing artists from as far south as Tioga, Pennsylvania, to as far north as Remsen, New York. The “Spectrum” exhibit serves as a vivid illustration of the society’s mission to encourage artistic development, featuring an impressive array of disciplines including luminous watercolors, oils, pastels, acrylics, encaustic painting, glasswork, handcrafted jewelry, and sculpture. By bringing together such a wide range of styles, the exhibition celebrates the individual “voices” of the membership, proving that the society remains as lively and energetic today as it was over a century ago.
In addition to its commitment to adult artists, the society takes pride in supporting the next generation of creators through annual scholarship awards for the Scholastic Art Show. For families attending the “Spectrum” exhibit, the Gmeiner has also organized an interactive scavenger hunt activity. This engaging program is designed to help children experience the gallery in a fun, adventurous way, making the exhibition a perfect destination for art enthusiasts of all ages.