Southport Magazine

As the dreary winter fades into a new spring, it’s the perfect time to go enjoy some art. Franklin Square Gallery in Southport has just the ticket with two shows opening on March 1, one featuring students and another displaying the works of Associated Artis of Southport members. The members’ show will even include another of the gallery’s popular Mug Challenges! 

What do artists do when cooped up at home during the pandemic? They try new media, paint big pictures, and create even more whimsical pottery. Stop by the Associated Artists of Southport’s Member Show at Franklin Square Gallery, March 1-May 8, and see what they’ve been up to.

Associated Artists of Southport (AAS) is located in the charming, historic building nestled under live oak trees behind Franklin Square Park three blocks from Southport’s waterfront at 130 E. West Street. Its large, high-ceilinged galleries allow space for social distancing. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday, 10 am- 4 pm.

With more than 100 exhibiting members, all who can contribute to this show, different perspectives on, “the new normal” are expected. Ricki Hiatt, co-chairperson for 2-D exhibits, sees this spring opening of the gallery as symbolic of the feelings of renewal, hope and joy. “Our artists will be sharing this message through the beauty of their paintings. Come see what we have to offer and revive our soul!” Hiatt said.

The pottery contingent is stepping up with their Easter/Spring Mug Challenge. Becky Cleary, co-chairperson for 3-D exhibits, reports, “I’ve been checking with the potters and they are enthusiastically working on their mugs. This Mug Challenge gives them something different to work on while “hunkering down” at home.” This portion of the show allows art lovers to vote for their favorite, and purchase them as well.

This show has no judge but the public, no awards but purchases, and no theme, just members of the cooperative working together to initiate the spring season in the gallery.