Sure, an artist can rent a tent, but what about those of us that do not have flats? You need those to hang on, you know? That was the appeal of the fences. Another consideration is that most artists do not have enough room in their vehicles for art, equipment, flats, and tents. Really….

The Roanoke Valley is home to a plethora of local artists, what a shame there is not a venue for them and them alone. Those in charge need to realize that they have this wealth of art and artists and need to appreciate and showcase them much more than they do; they need to include more than the ‘elite’ few. I have been here since the mid-1950′s and am well aware of the artists, the show, it’s history, and the passions behind it. It is disturbing to first find out the art is down by the railroad tracks with the noise and the stench of creosote, now this? I find this not acceptable. I have to say, Taubman folks need to rethink this. Perhaps one of the reasons is that membership is down and the museum is not a success is because of the ‘art’ etc. it offers. You have to know your audience; good writers know it, and successful artists know it, good managers know it. Look at your population and come up with a plan that does not make the museum look elitist and snobbish. Offer some programs that are more reasonable. What we really need is an art center, a place to include shows which include local artists, and the community at large on a regular basis. There is certainly room for improvement. Sad thing is, the artists of this valley are paying dearly for someone’s poor decision making.

Lynchburg does have a wonderful show! They are good to the artists and also have much more organized community art happenings. It is a one day show, and in the fall. (Lynchburg, pat yourselves on the back!)

Please pull it together, or else we all stand to loose.

What do you expect? The museum cannot be profitable based solely on membership and admittance fees, so they have to find other ways to generate any income they can find. Unfortunately for you local artists who wish to participate in the art show, you’re an easy target. Let them know you don’t approve….sit it out this year. If enough of you sit it out, they’ll have no choice but to reverse course. It’s hard to have an art show with no vendors and no vendors = no customers.