Dear Artists, Members and Friends of the Arts:

On behalf of the AI&G Board of Directors, welcome to the Art Institute & Gallery.  Whether you are a “seasoned artist", "a person who always wanted to take a class” or one who is new to our area and the AI&G – We have something for everyone!

The AI&G is in it's 58^th year of service on the Eastern Shore.  We are excited about the new opportunities that lie ahead.  In the last year, we have welcomed over 70 new artists to our exhibitions, in addition to new instructors and new students. We also have implemented  an ever-increasing line-up of classes for students of all ages. 

It is said that you can’t know where you are going if you don’t know where you came from.  We do!  The AI&G has a long history of promoting the arts through exhibitions for all levels of artists along with education programs for children and adults.  Throughout our history, volunteers have been the leaders who propelled the AI&G forward.  It is volunteers who bring new ideas to the table and who work tirelessly to bring those ideas to fruition.

What makes the AI&G so special?

• The Martha Gue’ AI&G Gallery Shop. Renamed in 2009 for long-time volunteer and shop manager, Martha B. Gue’, the shop now carries local and regional artisan and artists works along with  international fair trade items.  Co-managed by Inga Hogue and Leslie Fisher, the gallery shop is staffed 100% by volunteers.
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• Exhibitions.  Over 10 exhibitions are held annually including juried and non-juried member shows, Abstract, Photography, a Holiday Artist Show and others.  The AI&G’s Annual National Juried Exhibition will celebrate its 20^th anniversary in 2011.  For children, the Blooming Artist Youth Show each February welcomes children from  ages 4 to 18 to formally exhibit their creations.In 2011 over 319 pieces of art were exhibited from children who were from public, private and home school settings. In the Foyer Gallery, juried artists have the opportunity for a spotlight solo exhibit that hangs concurrently with the main gallery. In the 2012 year, a new opportunity will provide solo exhibition space for 3D artworks in our Center Gallery. 
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• Education.  Art education is vital to children and adults.  Imagine a world without color, without dimension or for that matter without emotion.  Art reflects all of these things.  Through the efforts of Education Director Kate Cashman and a most talented group of instructors, the AI&G offers a full complement of classes for both children and adults to help bring art alive within YOU. 
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• On-site Pottery Studio.  The AI&G is the only gallery with a full-service on-site pottery studio offering classes in hand building and wheel throwing.  With three active potters, there are classes offered for both beginner and advanced children or adults.
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• 3^rd Friday Partnership.  The AI&G was a cornerstone partner in establishing 3^rd Friday art events in Salisbury, MD.  Each month is more unique than the last with an activity for everyone in your family. Through our partnership with Layton's Chance Winery as a 2011 Platinum Sponsor and through the addition of unique Robinson Gallery exhibits,  we have taken 3rd Friday to a new level.
• Volunteers. Our volunteers are the reason for our success and longevity.   You as volunteers continue to make us special!  When an organization grows as AI&G has during this past year, the role of the volunteer is more important than ever.  The AI&G has many volunteer opportunities awaiting you.   Whether in our Gallery Shop, serving on any of our committees, assisting in the office and with education projects we have a spot for you!

Often called, “the best kept secret on the Eastern Shore”, the Art Institute & Gallery is a vital organization whose sole purpose is the appreciation and promotion of the visual arts.  Be a part of the AI&G and work with us to insure that we will always have a world full of color and a legacy of preservation and passion for art for generations to come.

As we look ahead, we do so with pride and with excitement at the new directions, new leadership and new goals to take us into a new decade.  Please join us!  We look forward to your visit!

The Board of Directors, Staff and Volunteers of the Art Institute & Gallery