Enthusiastic residents were spilling out the door on September 12 at the opening celebration of Arts Wayand’s new Town Center location at 35 Andrew Ave. Attendees milled around the gallery, sipping on cocktails and eating appetizers while gazing at the artwork hung around the new gallery’s walls. Other residents greeted friends. Guitar music played in the background. The gallery showcased a vibrant collection of over 80 pieces of 2D and 3D artwork from 25 artists.
Arts Wayland President Steve Robb welcomed members and non-members, telling everyone, “This is your space.” He said that the public was welcome to visit their storefront location and view the art gallery. In addition to displaying artwork, Robb explained that the space would be used for classes, concerts, storytelling, and even a yoga retreat, and he encouraged members to provide ideas for the space. Members can also schedule private meetings at this location — and he encouraged non-members to join the group.
Arts Wayland is raising funds in hopes of eventually leasing a more permanent space. Zurich Asset Management, the current owners of Town Center, allows Arts Wayland to use the space rent-free until a tenant leases the location. However, Town Center is currently for sale.
Robin Gray, project manager at Arts Wayland, said that the artists exhibiting their work are from all over MetroWest. To exhibit their work, artists must be members. Artists have the opportunity to show one to five pieces of art for one month.
Upcoming events include a mosaic jewelry class, a music series & exchange, a songwriters’ workshop, a jazz class, and a watercolor and pastel class.
Arts Wayland has been a part of Wayland since its founding in 1981, sponsoring a combination of exhibits, events and educational programs as a cultural outlet to the Boston MetroWest area. Their mission is “to promote creative expression; to inspire, motivate, and support artists of all media to enrich the culture of Metrowest communities.” For more information, visit artswayland.com.
