By Beth Sluys
Northside News
The Madison area opened its doors and walls to art May 4 for the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMOCA) Gallery Night. Organized each spring and fall by MMOCA, Gallery Night featured special events, demonstrations and refreshments at 67 venues throughout Madison and surrounding communities. Two Northside venues were the Bear & Bottle and VSA Wisconsin.
Upon entering the opening reception at the Bear & Bottle, one experienced the busy hum of a great new eatery but also appreciated the diverse display of local art. Area artists greeted visitors, while the exhibition of prints, paintings and photographs welcomed discussion and appreciation. The evening allowed art lovers to view the artwork and then enjoy the outdoor patio seating, craft beers and a delicious and creative menu. “We are happy to support the arts, and we invite the community to stop by through the month of May,” said co-owner Marcus Schiel.
Meanwhile, at VSA Wisconsin on Aberg Avenue, the walls of the exhibit hall were covered in artwork from over 276 entries to their annual Call for Art event, which culminates in an awards presentation to the top 10 award winners. The winning artwork will be part of a traveling exhibit for the next three years at various locations throughout Wisconsin. The artwork on display included paintings, photography, ceramics, pen and ink drawings and sculptures. Through the programs offered at VSA Wisconsin, area children and adults with disabilities are offered creative classes in dance, drama, creative writing, music and the visual arts. “Art is a reflection of life. It allows that anything we put our minds to can be accomplished. The impact of art is infinite, and we see that every day in the work here at VSA Wisconsin,” said Executive Director Karen Gallagher.
