Wow, Light Art Space (LAS) has been open for almost seven years!
It has been a wonderfully rewarding journey full of ups and downs and daily discoveries.
Now we are at a transition point and need your help.
A brief recap: I (Karen Hymer) moved to Silver City after retiring from a teaching career in Tucson. In Silver City I saw a need for a professional gallery space to exhibit high quality art from local and national artists, and I was seeking a smaller art community where I could exhibit my artwork, teach workshops and build community.
After renovating the historic building at 209 West Broadway, LAS opened on September 1st, 2018. We have been home to the work of 10 —13 local artists and held group exhibitions for over 60 other local artists. Of 85 exhibitions, many included artworks from outside the United States. Over 45 workshops have been attended by locals and others from across the US.
LAS differs from the other galleries in Silver City; we are a bit of a hybrid. We currently represent 11 local artists and also host curated juried exhibitions featuring work from national and international artists. Exhibitions change out every 4 – 8 weeks, providing our community with exciting new work in a museum-like setting. Our focus is on providing a welcoming environment where people of all ages can step away from daily life and immerse themselves in an inspirational visual experience. Making sales, while important, is secondary to our mission.
An important part of our Vision Statement includes interfacing with local organizations and events. LAS produces annual juried exhibitions as part of the Silver City CLAY Festival and The Print Fiesta. We have held poetry and book readings as part of the Southwest Festival of the Written Word, exhibited the work of WNMU students, hosted LGBTQ Grant County 2024 Silver City Pride Festival art show, and exhibited Latinx artists during the Fiesta Latina. Our annual Grant County Photography exhibition features work by 20 – 30 photographers from across the county.
In the last 7 years I have felt supported and appreciated by the community. I love Silver City and thank all of you who attend our exhibitions, participate in workshops, and purchase art. I truly believe that the world is a better place when the creative spirit is fostered.
I want to continue providing this kind of programing. We rely on our artist/volunteers to staff the gallery, and juried exhibition entry fees, workshop fees, and general sales to cover expenses. However, since the pandemic, tourism has been down, so for the past two years our income has no longer covered our operating expenses. I work 20 – 30 hours a week at the gallery with no financial compensation for my time, and I do not charge the gallery rent. This has become unsustainable, which is why I am asking for your help.
Here’s how you can help to ensure our community continues to have access to the inspirational art viewing and professional programing we provide:
- Become an annual Member of Light Art Space. Visit lightartspace.com to join the Light Art Space family. There are four levels to choose from, with many benefits.
- Donate to our “Building Maintenance Fund”. Some upcoming projects include replacing our main heater, adding a cooling system, roof repair, plumbing and gallery lights.
- Participate in our “7 Year Itch Auction Fundraiser” on display at LAS September 25th – October 5th, 2025. The finale party of the silent auction will be held on Sunday, October 5th from 4 – 6 pm. Bid on the variety of artwork, gift certificates, and other wonderful items.
- Post a review on Google and keep bringing your family and friends to the gallery!
With your help we can continue to provide inspiration and creative growth in Silver City.
Thank you!
Karen (and Nigel)
