Garden Valley Center For the Arts

During BOSCO Open Studios Weekend, a group of ladies came in and we started talking about art. They were interested in seeing more of my work so I mentioned the current exhibition in Garden Valley. One woman's jaw dropped to the floor. "Garden Valley?" ..... Silence... "I used to live there. There's nothing there..." Silence.... It was really cute! And understandably so -

It's a small town tucked between granite mountains, western white, ponderosa, and lodgepole pines, with long stretches of valley; the city of crouch has a population of 157, Garden Valley itself holds around 3000. The kind of people that choose a life in the mountains have me dreaming of it myself. It's not any simpler, just different, perhaps a bit more grounded.

The Garden Valley Center for the Arts is the brainchild of about 10 incredibly motivated individuals, two of which I had the pleasure of working with on the exhibition. Incredibly sweet folks - Lois and David - put the art in heart. With generous support of the community, the Garden Valley center for the arts is growing faster than imagined. A recent donation of 8 pottery wheels from Treasure Valley Community College has the town "spinning!"

Gage takes the wheel
Photo by David Bagnard

I am grateful to Katherine Bajanova Grimmett for introducing me to them, and know this venue will quickly find itself on the map for cultural destination through their drive, determination and thoughtful endeavors.

The following photo tour images of the opening reception are by David Bagnard.

The evening started off with Kevin Kirk and Onomatopoeia. We were blessed with gorgeous weather! 

Gates open! 

George Gledhill, a potter from Payette, Idaho, creates in a gorgeous and earthy style. 

Gage is an active member of the GVCA. 

The interactions with the guests made the opening very memorable! 

The lucky corner

Such an interesting process, George salts them prior to firing. I know what I'm getting for Christmas! 

Engrossed in captivating conversation! 

At the end of the night, tradition stands to throw wine on your gracious host mid embrace!

My exhibition with George Gledhill is the sixth in the history of the Garden Valley Center for the Arts. Many talented Garden Valley artists have graced the walls and display cases, Boise artists have too - Kellie Cosho, Zion Warne, Heidi Haislmaier, Katherine Bajenova Grimmett, and Tarmo Watia. I am excited for the future of the gallery, and thankful for my experience with everyone who had a hand in putting the show together! The next time you find yourself in Crouch, Idaho, stop in and take a look around; you will be glad you did.