At the Williamson County Art Guild gallery, members often work on art projects together and teach each other new skills. (Gianna Ivy Means/Community Impact)
The Williamson County Art Guild, a 200-member group of artists and art-appreciators, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
The details
Since starting in 1976, the art guild has become a “bigger presence” in the community, past President Lynn Kessel said. The guild participates in a number of projects, often partnering with local businesses to create artwork around town. They also host art events and exhibitions throughout the county, she said.
“We reach our little tentacles everywhere into this community,” Publicity Chair Leslie Bradstreet said.
The guild opened a gallery on Rock Street in Georgetown in October 2023. The addition of the gallery builds stronger relationships between members and stronger ties into the community, Bradstreet said.
“As Georgetown's grown, and our guild has grown, it's become more sophisticated,” Kessel said.
Members of the guild exhibit their pieces in the gallery.(Gianna Ivy Means/Community Impact)
After 20 years as a member, Kessel said the friendships and community are what keep her coming back.
“[The gallery is] a place to be able to meet and see each other regularly,” Kessel said. “You're not only involved in a project together, but you're becoming friends.”
Something to note
A 2024 exhibition, featuring work from students at Georgetown High School and East View High School, was particularly special, Bradstreet and Kessel said.
In that show, every single piece of artwork sold. It was the first time a lot of the students ever sold a piece of art, as well as the first time the guild ever sold out a whole show, they said.
The celebration
To celebrate half a century, the guild is taking it back to the 1970s with a disco party. Appropriately named the “Peace, Love & Art Affair,” the festivities include music, refreshments, a silent auction and a quick-draw artist.
Sept. 26, 6-9 p.m.
Admission $35
445 E. Morrow St., Georgetown
The Williamson County Art Guild was founded in 1976.(Gianna Ivy Means/Community Impact)
One more thing
To commemorate the long line of people involved with the guild, both past and present, the group is showing the “Legacy Exhibit,” Bradstreet said. The 100-piece exhibit, opening Nov. 14, will be shown both at the Georgetown Public Library and the Williamson County Art Guild Gallery.
