<![CDATA[MONROE WALTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS - Members Memo]]>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 19:21:27 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[December's Member's Memo]]>Sun, 11 Jan 2026 17:07:10 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/decembers-members-memoemailed to members on Dec 31, 2025

​Dear MWCA Members,
This will be my final Members Memo because beginning January 1, 2026, future memos will come from Heather Howard, who will step into the role of Director for the Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts.  I know you all will be as kind and welcoming to her as you were to me when I started here in 2017!

Very briefly, here’s how our roles will shift:
  • Heather will oversee day-to-day operations, programs, staff, and volunteers, ensuring MWCA continues to run smoothly and grow thoughtfully.
  • I will move into a part-time role, focusing on communications, marketing, special projects, and community engagement — continuing to support MWCA’s mission in a new way.  I'll also serve on the MWCA Board of Directors as Board President.

I’m deeply grateful for your trust and support as we enter this next chapter.

A quick note about memberships & Zeffy
  • Going forward, although we will reach out as well, we are gradually moving membership renewals and notices to Zeffy, our secure online payment platform.
  • You will see an optional Zeffy tip at checkout — this helps support the platform itself and is always completely optional. Whether or not you choose to include a tip, your membership support means the world to us.
  • Our Zeffy Membership link -- click HERE​

End-of-Year Support
As we close out the year, our End-of-Year Campaign is still underway. If you’ve already given, thank you — truly. If you’re considering a year-end gift, your support helps sustain our classes, exhibitions, scholarships, and community programs as we step into 2026. Every contribution, at any level, makes a meaningful difference.
You can give HERE - thank you for your consideration.

Important reminder!!
Members Show -- learn more HERE
  • Artwork Drop-Off: January 4–7
  • Judge: Joe Gargasz
  • Awards Reception: January 24 at 6- 7:30
  • This show is always one of my favorites — a true celebration of the talent, creativity, and generosity of our members.

Looking back — and forward
2025 was a year of growth, resilience, and meaningful connection. Together, we:
  • Supported dozens of local artists and instructors
  • Offered scholarships and inclusive programming through ArtReach
  • Welcomed thousands of visitors into our galleries, classes, and gift shop
  • Continued building a center that feels open, creative, and welcoming to all

None of this happens without you. Your memberships, participation, encouragement, and belief in this place truly matter.

MWCA has been, and will always be, work I care deeply about — not just as an arts organization, but as a living, creative community. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together, and genuinely excited about what’s ahead in 2026.

Thank you — truly — for your support of our "little arts center that could", your trust, and your love of the arts.

With appreciation and confidence in what’s ahead,
Hope]]><![CDATA[November Members' Memo]]>Thu, 11 Dec 2025 17:09:37 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/november-members-memo6272525This was mailed to members on November 20, 2025

​Dear members - 
We are so grateful for you!
Your membership keeps art alive in our community — and your involvement makes all the difference, especially during this joyful (and wonderfully busy!) holiday season.

As we head into November and December, please note that a few of our weekly teachers will be taking some well-deserved time off. Be sure to check with your instructor for any schedule changes.

This season brings some of our most magical events of the year:

* Mistletoe in Monroe Christmas Tour of Homes — tickets are selling fast!
* Little Shoppers’ Wonderland — a sweet, kid-friendly "Secret Santa" shopping experience on Nov 22 & Dec 6. We ask that you make an appointment to help us prepare, but we will be able to take walk-in's too.  Learn more in the link!

And of course… our Christmas Gift Shop is sparkling and fully stocked with thousands of handmade items from 80+ local artists. We’ll even be open late on select Thursdays until 8 PM — perfect for sipping cider, strolling Monroe, and finding one-of-a-kind gifts.

If you want to support us in simple but meaningful ways this season:
  • Like & share our posts on Facebook/Instagram
  • Invite a friend to a class or event
  • Tell neighbors about our gift shop & gallery
  • Volunteer an hour or two when you can

These small acts ripple outward and strengthen our creative community in big ways.
Thank you for being part of the MWCA family.

~~~
***Annual MEMBERS MEETING (free!)***
In accordance with our by-laws, we are holding our Annual Members Meeting -- 
Sunday, December 7 • Tea at 2 PM • Meeting at 2:30 PM

Join us for a delightful twist on our annual members meeting — a Tea Party with the Board! This once-a-year gathering is your chance to enjoy delicious teas, meet our board members, hear what’s ahead, and cast your vote on the 2025 Executive Committee roster.

Arrive at 2 PM, if you'd like, for a warm cup of tea lovingly prepared by member Lisa Gail Daniel, who will also host a charming pop-up tea shop. Our Board of Directors is providing some goodies and treats for you to enjoy as we mingle and connect.

At 2:30 PM, we’ll hold a brief members meeting that includes:
• A vote on the slate of officers presented by our nominating committee (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer)
• A presentation of our 2025 budget
• A short Q&A session with our board

Come learn how MWCA works, share your ideas, and get inspired about what’s ahead in the coming year!

Please RSVP by 12/6 to our Membership Chair, Kamden  - kmeclassicalrealism@gmail.com

Your voice matters — and we can’t wait to see you there!
~~~

2026 Sponsorships Are Now Open!

Art for All: Powered by Partners

Do you own or work for a local business? MWCA’s 2026 Business Sponsorship Campaign is officially underway! When businesses partner with us, they’re not just sponsoring art — they’re strengthening our community, supporting healing arts programs, and helping creativity flourish for all ages.

Sponsorship is meaningful and smart: it connects local businesses with thousands of residents, families, and visitors who love to shop local and support organizations that make Monroe shine.

Invite your workplace to become a Partner in Creativity for 2026 — together, we can make art happen for everyone.
>>>  Learn more HERE

~~~
Coming Up:

* Friday Night Art Party with Donna - Nov 21
* Paper Quilled Snowflake - Nov 29
* Swedish Star Ornament - Nov 29
* Drop-In Santa Pottery Project - Nov 29

AT RUST AND DUST ANTIQUES (155 Etten Dr)
* Paint a cute Christmas Gnome - drop in from 11 - 3 - Nov 22
please note - our artists are taking a break for the holidays.  Our Rust and Dust classes will start back up in January!

~~~
HOLIDAY HOURS
  • Closed Thanksgiving
  • Christmas Eve: 11 - 2
  • Closed Christmas Day
  • Closed New Years Eve and New Years Day
~~~
Black Friday & Shop Small Saturday at MWCA!
Friday & Saturday, November 28–29
Celebrate creativity and community this holiday season by shopping local at the Monroe–Walton Center for the Arts!

We’ll be open both days with beautiful, handmade gifts from 80+ local artists — pottery, jewelry, ornaments, paintings, candles, and more. Some artists will even be offering special deals just for the weekend!

Saturday Highlights – Nov 29
Make it a festive, creative day downtown!

Drop-In Pottery Project: Hand-build a cheerful clay Santa in our pottery studio — fun for ages 9+! ($35)
Two special workshops -- Go HERE for details
Sip, Stroll & Shop: Enjoy hot spiced apple cider and homemade cookies while you browse the gallery and gift shop!

Support local artists, find one-of-a-kind treasures, and enjoy a cozy, creative kickoff to the holiday shopping season.

~~~~
Art for Everyone: Empowering Joy through Art Reach

Every Tuesday, our ArtReach classroom fills with joy.
Young adults with special needs come together to paint, create, and laugh — building friendships, confidence, and creative expression.

Each student pays a small, reduced rate for these classes. MWCA covers the rest and supply costs through our ArtReach Scholarship Fund, ensuring that every participant can attend, no matter their circumstances.

Your donation makes this possible.
You can learn more here about Art Reach.
You can GIVE HERE.
THANK YOU!

~~~
VOLUNTEER -- email robbin@monroeartguild.org if you'd like more information about volunteering
~~~
Thank you for being part of MWCA — together we are building beauty, connection, and joy for our whole community.

Happy Thanksgiving!
With gratitude,
Hope and the MWCA Team

P.S. -- QUICK LINKS:
Learn more about ...
Our September calendar -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/calendar.html
How to give, volunteer, support MWCA -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/volunteer--donate.html
Adult Classes -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/adult-classes.html
Kids Classes -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/kids-classes.html
Special Needs Classes -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/x-tra-special-art.html
Literary Events -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/for-writers--readers.html
Our HEALING ARTS programs -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/healing-arts--art-for-all.html
What's in the gallery? And what's coming up in 2026? Find out -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/call-for-entries.html
]]><![CDATA[September's Memo]]>Mon, 15 Sep 2025 21:55:36 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/septembers-memoDear Members,
We are so grateful for you! Your membership keeps art alive in our community — and your involvement makes all the difference. We know life is busy, but even small actions truly help us thrive:
* Like & share our posts on Facebook/Instagram
* Invite a friend to a class or event
* Volunteer an hour or two at an event
* Spread the word about our gift shop & gallery
These simple acts ripple out, bringing more people into our creative family.

~
***MEMBERS ONLY MEETING (free!)***
Sept 20 at 11am - Photography Workshop with Tracey Davis - learn more -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/saturday-soirees-and...

~
Coming Up:
* Dino Day & Kids Art Day Sat, Sept 13 Chomp, Stomp & Create at MWCA!
* Paint a DINO with Donna - drop-in for ALL ages
* Regional Gallery Show Opening – Sept 17
* Regional Show Reception - Sept 27 at 6pm
* "Rust and Brush" a creative collaboration with The Rust and Dust Antiques LLC at 155 Etten Drive Monroe - Saturday drop-in arts & crafts workshops taught by MWCA teachers every Saturday in October! We have two booths there, too - have you visited?
* Christmas Gift Market opens - Nov 1
* Mistletoe in Monroe Christmas Tour of Homes - Dec 13
~
VOLUNTEER -- email robbin@monroeartguild.org if you'd like more information about volunteering
~
We’d love your input!
Take 30 seconds to answer three quick questions, please: https://form.jotform.com/252518499730062
Your feedback helps us serve you better — thank you!
Thank you for being part of MWCA — together we are building beauty, connection, and joy for our whole community.

With gratitude,
Hope and the MWCA Team
​
P.S. -- QUICK LINKS:
Learn more about ...
Our September calendar -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/calendar.html
How to give, volunteer, support MWCA -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/volunteer--donate.html
Adult Classes -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/adult-classes.html
Kids Classes -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/kids-classes.html
Special Needs Classes -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/x-tra-special-art.html
Literary Events -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/for-writers--readers.html
Our HEALING ARTS programs -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/healing-arts--art-for...
What's in the gallery? And what's coming up? Find out -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/call-for-entries.html
See our 2024 IMPACT BROCHURE -- https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/Your]]><![CDATA[July Members' Memo]]>Fri, 11 Jul 2025 19:41:18 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/july-members-memo1272988Hey MWCA Members! 
Summer is in full swing, and things are heating up at Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts — but don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of cool ways for you to stay creative, connected, and inspired this month!

 BEACH, PLEASE! — Saturday, July 12 | 10am–5pm
Join us for a splashy day of fun during Monroe’s citywide “Beach, Please” celebration!
We’ll be hosting FOUR beach-themed drop-in art workshops for all ages — jellyfish painting, seashell art, macramé, and paradise board painting! No registration needed — just come create with us!
details: https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/saturday-soirees-and-other-special-events.html

 SPECIAL WORKSHOP with DEBRA YAUN — Saturday, July 26
This is a rare opportunity to learn from a nationally recognized artist and Art Ambassador for Holbein & Ampersand!
  •  Watercolor: 10–12 ($25)
  •  Acrylic: 1–3 ($25)
  • Take one or both — all supplies included!
    Seats are limited and filling fast, so don’t wait to register!
details: https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/saturday-soirees-and-other-special-events.html

 FRIDAY NIGHT ART PARTIES
Gather your friends (or come solo!) for two fantastic evenings of art & fun!
Friday, July 18 – with Donna - oil pastels bird
Friday, July 25 – with Jennifer - lighthouse with acrylics
details:  https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/adult-classes.html


 “GEORGIA ON MY MIND” Show + Sale — July 30–Sept 8
 MEMBERS ONLY!
What does Georgia mean to you? Show us through your art! Think: barns, peaches, the ATL skyline, small towns, beaches, mountains, and more.
Enter up to 4 works for just $20.
This is a non-juried, show & sale — customers can take art home during the exhibit and artists can restock anytime!
Drop-off: July 26 -28
details:  https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/call-for-entries.html

 REGIONAL JURIED SHOW — Submissions Open NOW through August 10
One of our biggest and most prestigious shows of the year!
This is your chance to exhibit alongside some of the most talented artists in the region.
 Submissions are ONLINE ONLY — be sure to get yours in and tell your arty friends!
details:  https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/call-for-entries.html

 Thank you for being a member!
Your involvement fuels everything we do — from classes and exhibits to events that bring art to our whole community.
We can’t wait to see what you create and share this summer!
With gratitude and excitement,
Hope & the MWCA Team
*
​
P.S.  --  QUICK LINKS:
Learn more about ...
  • Our July calendar HERE
  • How to give, volunteer, support MWCA HERE
  • Adult Classes HERE
  • Kids Classes HERE
  • Special Needs Classes HERE
  • Literary Events HERE
  • Our HEALING ARTS programs HERE
  • Missed our July newsletter? Catch up HERE
  • What's in the gallery? And what's coming up?  Find out HERE ... and BEYOND the Gallery (new solo opportunity coming SOON! stay tuned!) HERE
  • See our 2024 IMPACT BROCHURE HERE​
]]><![CDATA[June 2025 Memo]]>Tue, 17 Jun 2025 21:04:16 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/june-2025-memoHello friends!
There’s so much sunshine and creativity blooming around here, and we couldn’t do it without YOU — our amazing members!
 CREPE MYRTLE FESTIVAL – June 14 - 9am-2pm https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/saturday-soirees-and-other-special-events.html
We’re proud to support the City’s biggest event of the summer with a whole lot of artful fun at MWCA!
Stop by during the festival for:
  •  Face painting
  •  Drop-in tie-dye tee workshop
  •  Drop-in pottery fun
  •  Pop-up shops with 15 local artists
  •  Meet & greet with 6 local authors
  •  Concessions supporting our pottery studio
  •  And of course … our new gallery show!
 “A Day at the Beach” is OPEN!
This joyful summer show + sale brings the salty breeze and sunshine right into our gallery. Come see 112 pieces of breezy, beachy artwork and handmade goods that’ll make you want to kick off your flip-flops.

 What’s Coming Next in the Gallery: https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/call-for-entries.html
  • August: Georgia on my Mind
  • September–October: Regional Juried Show (get ready!)

 Summer Camp is in full swing! https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/summer-art-camp.html
We’re thrilled to be hosting campers all summer long for fun, creativity, and confidence-building through art. THANK YOU to everyone helping make these weeks magical!

WE NEED YOU!
We could really use some extra hands:
  • Volunteer at events
  • Greet guests in the gallery
  • Share our posts (this is HUGE!)
Even just an hour or two makes a difference. Email or drop by to sign up — we promise to make it fun!  https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/join--support-mwca.html
​
QUICK LINKS
Learn more about ...
  • Our June calendar HERE
  • How to give, volunteer, support MWCA HERE
  • Adult Classes HERE
  • Kids Classes HERE
  • Special Needs Classes HERE
  • Literary Events HERE
  • Summer Camp HERE
  • Our HEALING ARTS programs HERE
  • Missed our June newsletter? Catch up HERE
  • What's in the gallery? And what's coming up?  Find out HERE and HERE ... and BEYOND the gallery HERE
  • See our 2024 IMPACT BROCHURE HERE
Thank you for being part of our colorful, creative community. We’re growing because of YOU! 
With gratitude,
Hope & the MWCA Team]]><![CDATA[May Members' Memo]]>Tue, 06 May 2025 16:09:13 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/may-members-memo9482593Hello fabulous MWCA Members!
JUST THREE quick updates!!

1
Step Into a World Where Nature Inspires Art
Nature Meets Art Garden Tour | Saturday, May 10 | 11AM – 5PM

Imagine a spring day spent wandering through private gardens in full bloom, live artists creating around you, expert gardening tips, and a refreshing burst of creativity — it’s all waiting for you at our Nature Meets Art Garden TourTHIS Saturday!
Your $30 ticket includes:
    •    Access to 8 beautiful gardens
    •    Live painting by local artists
    •    Talks and giveaways from Bartlett Tree Experts
    •    A benefit plant sale by Grower’s Outlet right here on Davis Street, curated plants - Dr. A's favorites!!
    •    A special appearance and talks by beloved horticulturist Dr. Allan Armitage
    •    A day of fresh air, creativity, and community
Tickets are selling fast — don’t miss out!
Learn ALL about it HERE
Buy yours online HERE
~OR~
The map/guides are ready to pick up -- buy your ticket AND pick up the map in person at MWCA.
Your ticket supports the arts in Walton County — thank you for helping beauty bloom in our community.
See you Saturday!

2
Top 5 Ways to Support Your Favorite Nonprofit Art Center (That’s Us!)
Because let’s face it — creativity doesn’t run on glitter and good vibes alone.
1. Buy the Ticket. Take the Artful Ride.
Whether it’s a garden tour, art show, or a painting or pottery class your ticket supports local artists and makes you cooler than 98% of your group chat.
2. Shop Like You Mean It.
Our gift shop is full of one-of-a-kind treasures made by 80+ local artists. It’s like Etsy, but in real life, and you don’t have to pay shipping.
3. Donate Like a Philanthropic Unicorn.
Every dollar helps us keep the lights on, the paint flowing, and the creativity buzzing. Bonus: donations pair beautifully with tax deductions and a glowing sense of purpose.
4. Volunteer... Because You Look Good in a Name Tag.
Whether you like greeting people, hanging art, or just want an excuse to wear comfy shoes and be admired, we’ve got a spot for you. No beret required.
5. Tell a Friend (or Five).
Post, share, tag, shout from the rooftops: art is happening here! Word of mouth is our version of going viral — but with fewer TikTok dances and more community impact.

Supporting the arts has never been so easy (or so fun). Thanks for helping us bring creativity to life in Monroe!

3
QUICK LINKS
Learn more about ...
  • Our May calendar HERE
  • How to give, volunteer, support MWCA HERE
  • Adult Classes HERE
  • Kids Classes HERE
  • Special Needs Classes HERE
  • Literary Events HERE
  • Summer Camp HERE
  • Our HEALING ARTS programs HERE
  • Missed our MAY newsletter? Catch up HERE
  • What's in the gallery? And what's coming up?  Find out HERE and HERE ... and BEYOND the gallery HERE
  • See our 2024 IMPACT BROCHURE HERE

Thank you for being such an important part of our creative community. Your support, enthusiasm, and involvement make everything we do possible. We’re so grateful to walk this art-filled journey with you — here’s to more beauty, connection, and inspiration ahead!
~ Hope]]><![CDATA[April 18th, 2025]]>Fri, 18 Apr 2025 20:09:43 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/april-18th-2025Hello fabulous members!

Hope you all are doing well!  We appreciate you ... entering our shows, spending your hard-earned money in our shop and at our shows, volunteering, telling others about us, bringing your friends to visit, taking a class or two, just visiting and enjoying the gallery ... all the ways you show your support for your local community arts center - THANK YOU!

Here's your APRIL/MAY quick take:

Two events, one beautiful seasonStep into spring with a swirl of color, creativity, and charm!  Join us in celebrating the season of renewal with two magical events that blend art, nature, and a whole lot of joy — all to support our vibrant nonprofit art center!
​
 A TOAST TO THE ARTS: Garden Party
Saturday, April 26 | 7–10PM | Sparrow Grove Manor
Raise your glass beneath the stars!
This beautiful evening promises:
 Sips and small bites to swoon over
 Music to make your heart dance
 Silent auction at all price points and a huge variety & 50/50 raffle
 Special guest: Matt Ramos of Plant Sensations — prepare to be inspired!
Slip into something festive and join us for a night where the garden blooms and the art glows.

 NATURE MEETS ART: Tour of Gardens
Saturday, May 10 | 11AM–5PM | Private Gardens of Monroe
Wander. Wonder. Be wowed.
Take a self-guided stroll through Monroe’s most charming private gardens and discover:
 Artists creating beauty en plein air
 Talks that plant seeds of wisdom
 A blooming plant sale, tree sapling giveaways, and garden design delights
 Special guest: Dr. Allan Armitage — plant guru extraordinaire!
A spring day well spent for nature lovers, artists, and dreamers alike.

 TICKETS
Pick your potion or savor both!
 Toast to the Arts: $45
 Garden Tour: $30
 Combo Magic: $70

Support the arts, soak up the season, and make memories that bloom. 
Get your tickets now — spring won’t wait!

 How to Buy:
CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS
Or stop by the Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts (205 S. Broad St. in downtown Monroe)
or call 770-207-8937
Learn more, see the gardens, buy tickets!!
https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/spring-events.html
 Make this spring unforgettable with art, nature, and community.
 Get your tickets before they’re gone!
2. APRIL CLASSES
Please check out our class offerings!
3. GALLERY NEWS
Get ready for our 2025 shows ... our summer show & sale season is just around the corner!!
https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/call-for-entries.html

4 mid-APRIL NEWSLETTER
If you missed the newsletter - here's a link:  https://mailchi.mp/monroeartguild/monroewaltonartsnews-mid-april2025-8343182

warmly,
Hope]]><![CDATA[March Members' Memo]]>Thu, 06 Mar 2025 16:16:48 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/march-members-memo9988819​Hello fabulous members!

Hope you all are doing well!  We appreciate you ... entering our shows, spending your hard-earned money in our shop and at our shows, volunteering, telling others about us, bringing your friends to visit, taking a class or two, just visiting and enjoying the gallery ... all the ways you show your support for your local community arts center - THANK YOU!

Here's your MARCH quick take:

1.  CALL FOR ARTISTS!!
Beyond the gallery
We have been approached by local restaurants and businesses to provide original, local art for their walls.
Many thanks to Juli Tredwell and NancyJeanette Long, who have networked with local business owners and coordinated this brand new (!) effort to share the beauty and talent of our local artists with our community.  This perfectly fits with our mission to support local artists while serving our community.  We are kicking off this effort with an exhibition at LeGabrielle.  
Read the guidelines and find the link to apply here: https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/beyond-the-gallery.html

2. MARCH CLASSES
Please check out our MARCH offerings!
3. WELCOME SPRING! TWO BEAUTIFUL EVENTS...
A Toast to the Arts Garden Party on April 26
Nature Meets Art Garden Tour on May 10
Learn more, see the gardens, buy tickets!!
https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/spring-events.html

4. THANK YOU to these early bird business sponsors:
Innovator Level
SideStreet Boutique

Enthusiast Level
Piedmont-Walton Hospital

Supporter Level
Fit Fiddles
Rust and Dust Antiques
The Brown Fig
Wayfarer Inn
Wyrick Mechanical

Contributor Level
Jackie Rod, author
Lori Duff, author

YOUR business can help us out, too! 
https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/sponsorship.html

5. WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS!!
We're so proud to announce these new members on our board of directors:
  • Fundraising:  Amy Weems
  • Gallery: Jennifer Dominy
  • Grants: Sara Shropshire
Our entire board works tirelessly on behalf of our non-profit community art center.  They are the best -- dedicated, trustworthy, creative and just plain nice people!!

6. GALLERY NEWS
Get ready for our 2025 shows ... our summer show & sale season is just around the corner!!
https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/call-for-entries.html
The reception for the Elementary Student Art Show is March 20 from 6 - 7:30.  You're invited!!
Many thanks to Walmart Monroe for sponsoring our Walton Co. Elementary Student Art Show!  
Sponsorship is especially appreciated for our student shows as we give our gallery space to the schools to display students' art, and we forgo any income we might earn from our usual gallery sales.

7. 2024 IMPACT REPORT and RECAP
Please visit our website https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/ to view a three-minute video recap of 2024 plus our IMPACT REPORT. We have copies of the Impact Report at the Art Center - please come by and pick one up!
I think you'll be pleased and impressed with our accomplishments. I often call us the "little art center that could"!

8 MARCH NEWSLETTER
If you missed the March newsletter - here's a link:https://mailchi.mp/monroeartguild/monroewaltonartsnews-feb2025-8342335

warmly,
Hope]]><![CDATA[February 2025]]>Thu, 13 Feb 2025 19:53:03 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/february-2025Hello fabulous members!

Hope you all are doing well!  We appreciate you ... entering our shows, spending your hard-earned money in our shop and at our shows, volunteering, telling others about us, bringing your friends to visit, taking a class or two, just visiting and enjoying the gallery ... all the ways you show your support for your local community arts center - THANK YOU!

Here's your February quick take:

1.  SOUPer Bowl this Saturday
Saturday, Feb 8
SOUP-er Bowl from 11:30 until we run out!
Minimun $18 donation - you can choose your favorite handmade bowl, plus get a to-go container of soup and a brownie - this is a fundraiser put on by Rebecca and the pottery studio for MWCA!  SOUP-er convenient - you'll have beautiful bowls and food to serve at your Super Bowl get-together!

Pottery project: Make a heart-shaped chip-and-dip bowl with Rebecca.
Drop-in (no pre-registration required) on the hour at 11, 12, 1, or 2.
$35 per project.
Fun for all ages, small children may need help from their grown-up.
Your bowl will be glazed and ready in two weeks.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE SOUPE OR CHILI RECIPE?
The pottery studio has been working very hard to make bowls for the Souper Bowl fundraiser, but we need your help.
This fundraiser is for the center as a whole. If you love to cook, please sign up to bring a crock pot of soup or chili or cookies/brownies. Servers are also needed ...
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B45ACAB2DA3FCC34-54690990-souper#/

This event is a favorite for our community and we need LOTS of soup!

2. NEW CLASSES
Please check out our N*E*W offerings!
3. February at a glance: https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/classes--events.html

4. THANK YOU to these early bird business sponsors:
https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/sponsorship.html

5. GALLERY NEWS
The Members Show wraps up Feb 15 ... and then the happiest show in town comes in -- the Elementary Student Art Show! Can't wait!!
See the rest of the line-up: https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/call-for-entries.html

6. 2024 IMPACT REPORT and RECAP
Please visit our website https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/ to view a three-minute video recap of 2024 plus our IMPACT REPORT. We have copies of the Impact Report at the Art Center - please come by and pick one up!

I think you'll be pleased and impressed with our accomplishments. I often call us the "little art center that could" ! We just recently had visitors from another art guild in Gwinnett Co who wanted to learn how we do what we do -- creating a vibrant and warm community art center.

7 FEBRUARY NEWSLETTER
If you missed the February newsletter - here's a link: https://mailchi.mp/82822502fa6c/monroewaltonartsnews-8341883
]]><![CDATA[January 2025]]>Sat, 25 Jan 2025 15:11:01 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/members-memo/january-2025Hello friends!
Here are a few quick updates!

1 -- Members Show Reception -- TONIGHT!  Saturday, January 25 from 6-7:30
Please come, meet the artists, browse some great pieces, enjoy some wine and refreshments, fellowship and keep your fingers crossed that your favorites win an award!  Be sure to vote on your favorite work for the PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD!!  You're invited!

2 -- We're working on our February events now, with more to come!
Be on the lookout for the February newsletter to hit your inbox on January 28.

3 -- Check out our classes and events so far -  https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/adult-classes.html
  • DON'T MISS -- FEBRUARY 8 -- SOUP-er Bowl -- one of our most popular events!  Pick out your favorite handmade bowl out of about 100 (made by Rebecca and her pottery students and our other potters) for a minimum donation of $18, plus you'll get a to-go container of soup or chili and a cookie or brownie.  This is a fundraiser that Rebecca and the pottery studio puts on for MWCA.  Thanks, Rebecca!  We'll start serving at 11:30.  Come early before we sell out!
  • Also on Feb 8 - Pottery Project - make a handmade heart-shaped chip and dip bowl with Rebecca - drop in on the hour between 11 - 3 for about an hour. $35 

***

4 -- Welcome Spring at TWO FUN SPRING EVENTS!!!  SAVE THE DATE!!
A Toast to the Arts Garden Party
Saturday evening April 26 from 7 - 10pm
at SPARROW GROVE MANOR
Food | Drinks | Entertainment

and

Nature Meets Art Tour of Gardens
Saturday, May 10 from 11am – 5pm
Featuring select gardens in Monroe and Social Circle
Inspiration | Art Demos | Education

A TOAST TO THE ARTS:  You’ll enjoy a fun night out – wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres, music and dancing, and an exclusive silent auction that raises critical money for MWCA. Join us to fundraise for the arts and enjoy one of the most memorable evenings in Monroe. Chaired by Kamden Ecker and Mary Smith.  Email Kamden if you'd like to help:  kmeclassicalrealism@gmail.com

NATURE MEETS ART Garden Tour, an inspiring and beautiful foray into the loveliest gardens in the area.  Chaired by Barbara Barth.  Email her if you'd like to help: 
bb-bjd@comcast.net

How can YOU help?
We are also seeking SILENT AUCTION ITEMS --  we will have an exclusive silent auction at A Toast to the Arts to please all tastes and budgets.

Finally, we need volunteers to help in many ways with BOTH events! Contact our volunteer coordinator if you'd like to help - Robbin Moore: robbin@monroeartguild.org

***
5 -- YOUR business can sponsor us!
Our 2025 Sponsor Campaign is on-going.  Please follow this link and see how your business can support local arts and make a difference!
https://www.monroewaltonarts.org/sponsorship.html or email Amy Weems: Amym5877@gmail.com


YOU are appreciated!  We would not be the vibrant, involved and interesting community arts center that we are without your support in so many ways.

I'd like to end by sharing our ....
Mission Statement:
To support local artists, writers, and musicians and to create a thriving arts community by providing opportunities to experience art through a local artist market as well as gallery shows, classes, workshops, and special events.

Vision Statement:
To create a transformational arts community that promotes "Art for All" by delivering the aesthetic and healing benefits of the arts.

Everything we do at MWCA is centered around these goals:
1 -- To bring the beauty, vibrancy and healing nature of art to our entire community
2 -- Support the vital work of local artists and craftspeople in Walton County.

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