Artists' Row 'First Friday' Grows into First-Class Event
First Friday, the monthly art cruise along Artists' Row, a collection of art studios and galleries on Augusta's Broad Street, has become a tradition for many area residents.
"Augustans are now aware of us," said one artist and co-owner of one of the participating galleries.
First Friday began four years ago as a way for merchants to entice art lovers and new customers into their studios and galleries.Planning for the event began in 1994, by both the city and artists, as a way to provide studios and galleries for visual artists to preserve historic buildings and to revitalize the downtown area. Exteriors were renovated as part of a Façade Grant Program in several downtown blocks. The project has grown to include 14 galleries and working studios.
In 1998, the project earned the Promotion Award Destination given by the Georgia Department of Industry, Trade and Tourism.
Visitors to the galleries and studios find original paintings in all media and genres, as well as photography, works in clay, glass, jewelry, porcelain, fiber, metal and wood. Most galleries are open Tuesday through Saturday and all welcome visitors.
An estimated 800 to 1,000 people participate in the monthly gallery walk from 5 to 9 p.m. the first Friday of each month. Crowds have grown, thanks to advertising and word-of-mouth.
The evening also serves as a preview for buyers, who often return on Saturday to purchase a painting they've seen the night before.
The event is appealing because it's free and it has a "home-grown" feel, said Glen Bennett, executive director of the Downtown Development Authority and Main Street Augusta. "It's truly an Augusta event," he said. For artists, it's an opportunity to visit with regular and potential customers.
"I like the exposure here. I like being able to communicate with customers," said a gallery owner.
First Friday
What: A monthly open house at art galleries and businesses
FIRST FRIDAY
What: A monthly open house at art galleries and businesses
When: 5-9 p.m. first Friday of each month
Where: Artists' Row art galleries on Broad Street
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