President's Year-End Message

Hello members and friends of Quincy Art Association,

Obviously, the coronavirus pandemic has impacted us all. Many have suffered personal loss, had health issues, lay-offs, and lost jobs. And the challenges and adjustments to a new normal of Covid protocols and technology demands add yet another layer of stress, affecting students, parents, grandparents, and families everywhere.

Part of our mission is to promote the importance of art in life and culture by supporting, teaching, and exhibiting visual media in our community. Especially in these times, I’m reminded of this quote, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” ~ Pablo Picasso. So, whether you create art or are moved by it, remember the QAA may be just the lift you need. We hope you get involved.

I want to thank our hard-working volunteers, staff, instructors, and members who have helped QAA succeed during these challenging times. We owe our successes to you!

Here are some of QAA’s notable highlights of 2021

• Classes resumed in the fall at our studios following a lengthy closure due to Covid

• The QArts Gallery opened its doors eleven weeks ago, on October 15th

• The gallery has featured three exhibits, a members Group Show that included 63 works in oils, watercolor, acrylic, pencil, photography, textile, and sculpture; a members Small Works exhibit that includes 54 works, currently on exhibit; and a 2-member show which features QAA members Deb Putnam and Kris Kreitman opening December 29

• The gallery also launched the Artisan in the Windows program featuring Quincy’s Surfside Ceramics. This will be a regular rotating series.

• The gallery offered a Holiday Pop-up Shop of fine art items and artisan works.

• Our membership has seen a significant increase since mid-October, with new and renewals totaling 136 members total including 48 new members since opening gallery Oct 15, 2021. Many have not renewed most likely due to covid.

• The QAA is grateful for the support by the City of Quincy, Granite City Electric Supply Company/WAC Lighting, Northeast Community Bank, Quirk Auto Dealerships, DreamRealty, Foxrock, Wollaston Wine & Spirits, Eastern Bank, and Mass Cultural Council.

• Last quarter donations from Corporate Sponsors reached $7,900 and Member donations were $185.

• By appointment, visitors to the QArts Gallery have included: ESL group from Thomas Crane Library & Quincy High School Photography class
  

Looking ahead to 2022 (All activities are tentative as we navigate through changing Covid protocols).

• Winter Demo/Workshop Series at the QArts Gallery January: Linda Santoro Jewelry Workshop February: Building A Painting in Layers by Isabel Shamitz (pending confirmation) March: Elements of Sumi-e Painting by Tsun Ming Chmielinski

• April: Portrait Sculpture in Natural Clay by Dan Myers

• Long Poses Life Classes in January and February

• A collaboration with Lesley University for their Student Portfolio Show in February

• Exhibitions calendar in progress

• Spring Art Classes begin in April

• Quincy Arts Fest in May

• Arts Affair at the Q (previously held at Marina Bay) in August

Our Wish List for 2022

• Continued growth in membership and greater member involvement in classes, the gallery, and teaching.

• Volunteers for the QArts Gallery - Call 617-302-2969 or email quincyartma@yahoo.com

• End of pandemic!

Wishing you health and happiness in the New Year!

Warm Regards, Ellyn Moller