Tsuga Gallery to celebrate four years

The Tsuga Gallery will celebrate its fourth anniversary on Friday, July 17 from 5-7 p.m. with music and refreshments.

The gallery opened its doors at 70 Main St. in Cathlamet four years ago, the culmination of a dream of local resident Janet Cimino. She was instrumental in drawing together the many artists in the area and creating a bond in the group. She purchased the building and set up a trust as part of her estate as she succumbed to cancer. She was present as the gallery opened on the Friday night kicking off the Bald Eagle festival in Cathlamet. The town turned out in support amid music, refreshments and festivities.

The gallery is leased from the trust and is operated by the Tsuga Artist's Association. The art association is open to all artists in Wahkiakum County. New members are juried in periodically. The members volunteer to run the gallery and dues help cover the operating costs of the building. Membership runs between 30 and 40 artists and craftsmen, including painters, sculptors, photographers, jewelers, ceramics, tile, wood and metal workers. Local authors and musicians also have their work available. Exhibits are changed frequently to keep everything fresh and artists' receptions are held for the community to mingle and meet the artists. A variety of classes are offered as instructors become available.

The gallery/association is a non-profit corporation. The mission of the association is to provide a forum for the development of art and art education in a collaborative environment and to showcase the work of local artists.

As a part of the community the gallery is open to local volunteers and as a non-profit patrons may become a part of the goals with tax deductible donations. For further information visit their website at http://www.tsugagallery.org.