New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
There are a number of organizations, landmarks and businesses that are quintessential New Bedford. Nothing says “New Bedford” more than these establishments and no one who has grown up in the city is unaware of their presence. It’s hard to think of our city without them and simply saying New Bedford is enough to evoke their images.
One of these institutes that has been around since the 80s is the artist owned and operated community art center, Gallery X, originally started as the 2nd St. Art Exchange. The idea of a few students from the Swain School of Design and a bunch of local artists in the late 80s, they have been showcasing local talent ever since.
Initially, they rented a storefront on Spring Street sandwiched between the former YWCA and the Zeiterion, thus the “X” in their moniker. This small spot was a popular spot and before long attracted more than artists, but local poets, actors, musicians, even playwrights. These folks were deeply connected with the community so offered a number of children’s art programs and workshops. Gallery X became incorporated in 1990, and began to grow at a rapid rate. One of the contributing factor to their growth was that they made the artistry easily accessible by charging the low, low price of free. Art collectors rejoice!
To accommodate this growth, the gallery relocated to the 150 seat former 1855 First Universalist Church in 1995, where they still are today. In 1998, they purchased the building and began renovations including painting the structure, restoring the steeple, painting and west side and facade. They’ve done such a spectacular job that in 2003, they were given WHALE’s honorary Sarah H. Delano award.
What attracts so many artists to have their creations featured at the site, is the passion behind the current owners and also artists, Charles A. and Sue Hauck.
In addition, rubbing shoulders with your peers and mentors means you are not only learning to refine your technical ability, curate a show, or hang the artwork, but you are perpetually being inspired and motivated.
For the fan of the arts or collector, the constant and consistent display of an astounding variety of new artists and their work, means you are always stimulated and sated. Supporting Gallery X with visits or membership is supporting the area’s artists – a large number of residents considering that the city has an above the state average of them.
If you have a public or private event and want to rent the gallery you will find all the information here including rates, information on discounts for non-profit organizations or community group, the service kitchen, images of what the spots look like, and any other bits.
Are you an artist or an art collector interested in membership? How to become a member, what is needed as well as what is required, the fees and more can be found here
The best way to see what Gallery X offers is to stop in when they are hosting or any other time. Start to mingle with other artists, meet Sue or Charles and have all your questions answered. Another fantastic opportunity will their celebration with music, the arts, history and the culture of the New Bedford area, the Upper William Street Festival. This annual festival will take place on Saturday, September 24, from 12:00pm-4:00pm.
The festival will not only give a glimpse inside the gallery but there will be performers in the streets, a farmer’s market, activities for kids, music provided by the Toe Jam Puppet Band, New Bedford Symphony, New Bedford Harbor Sea Chantey Chorus, the Jethros, and the Harpoon Harmonizers. Furthermore, present will be craft makers and a book mobile.
Stop in and see what makes Gallery X, the directors, and the members, so special. It will be infectious, inspiring, and motivational.
169 William Street
New Bedford, MA
Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 11 am – 3 pm
Phone: (508) 992-2675
Email: GalleryXNB@gmail.com
Website: galleryx.org/
Facebook: facebook.com/GalleryXNewBedford/
