Downtown Artists Co-op: The Creative Heart of Clarksville, Tennessee

Nestled in the historic heart of the city, the Downtown Artists Co-op (DAC) stands as a beacon for creativity and a cornerstone of the Clarksville, Tennessee art scene. For nearly two decades, we have been more than just a gallery; we are a dynamic association of local artists and patrons bound by a shared passion for the visual arts. Our mission is to foster artistic growth, provide a platform for local talent, and enrich the cultural landscape of the Clarksville/Montgomery County area. We invite you to step inside our space at 96 Franklin Street to experience the diverse and inspiring work that our community has to offer.

Our Mission: Championing Local Art and Artists

The core purpose of the Downtown Artists Co-op is to create a self-sustaining environment where local artists can thrive. We are an organization run by artists, for artists. This unique structure ensures that our focus remains squarely on promoting artistic excellence and providing our members with the resources and support they need to succeed. From emerging talents to established professionals, the DAC offers a welcoming space for exhibition, collaboration, and professional development. We believe that a vibrant arts community is essential to the soul of a city, and we are proud to contribute to the cultural fabric of Clarksville.

A Diverse Tapestry of Local Talent

Our gallery is a testament to the incredible range of artistic talent within our community. The cooperative model encourages a rich variety of styles, mediums, and perspectives, ensuring that every visit offers a new and exciting experience for art lovers. We are proud to showcase a wide array of artistic disciplines, reflecting the unique voices of our member artists.

The collection of works you can find at the DAC is always evolving, featuring an impressive spectrum of creative expression. Below is a list highlighting some of the primary mediums our visitors can expect to discover.

• Painting: Explore captivating canvases in oil, acrylic, watercolor, and mixed media, ranging from abstract expressionism to photorealistic landscapes.
• Photography: Discover the world through the lenses of our talented photographers, whose work captures stunning local scenes, intimate portraits, and abstract compositions.
• Sculpture and 3D Art: Engage with three-dimensional works crafted from clay, metal, wood, and found objects, each piece telling its own unique story.
• Jewelry and Fine Crafts: Adorn yourself with handcrafted jewelry and discover exquisitely made crafts that blend artistry with function.
• Textiles and Fiber Arts: Experience the rich textures and intricate patterns of textile art, from weaving to contemporary fiber sculptures.
• Drawing and Printmaking: Appreciate the foundational skill of drawing in works of charcoal, pastel, and ink, alongside original prints from local printmakers.

This eclectic mix ensures that our gallery is a place of constant discovery. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a first-time visitor, the diversity of work on display guarantees an engaging and memorable visual journey, celebrating the immense creativity of the Clarksville area.

The Cooperative Experience: More Than a Gallery

What truly sets the DAC apart is our cooperative structure. Every aspect of the gallery, from curating exhibitions to managing daily operations, is a collaborative effort led by our member artists. This hands-on approach fosters a deep sense of community and shared ownership. It means that when you visit, you are not just entering a gallery; you are stepping into a creative hub actively shaped by the artists themselves. This environment cultivates a powerful network of support, encouragement, and shared knowledge that is invaluable for artistic growth.

Benefits of Membership

Joining the Downtown Artists Co-op offers a wealth of opportunities for local artists looking to advance their careers and connect with a supportive community. We believe in empowering our members by providing them with the tools and platform they need to succeed. Our membership is designed to offer tangible benefits that support artists both creatively and professionally.

For artists in the Clarksville/Montgomery County area, becoming a member of the DAC is an investment in your artistic journey. Here are some of the key advantages that our members enjoy:

1. Guaranteed Exhibition Space: Members have the opportunity to display and sell their work in our prominent downtown gallery, gaining valuable exposure to a wide audience of collectors and art enthusiasts.
2. A Supportive Community Network: Connect with a diverse group of fellow artists for collaboration, critique, and camaraderie. The co-op is a place to share ideas, overcome creative challenges, and celebrate successes together.
3. Professional Development: Participate in exclusive workshops, artist talks, and skill-sharing sessions designed to enhance your artistic practice and business acumen.
4. A Voice in Gallery Operations: As a cooperative, every member has a say in the direction and management of the gallery. This democratic approach ensures that the DAC remains true to its artist-centered mission.
5. Commission-Free Sales: Members retain 100% of the proceeds from their art sales, a significant advantage that empowers them to build a sustainable career.

These benefits combine to create an ecosystem where local artists are not only seen and celebrated but are also given the agency to shape their own creative community. We welcome artists from all backgrounds and at all stages of their careers to consider joining our vibrant cooperative.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT (As of Sun, May 24th, 2020)

Starting in June the DAC will be open Saturdays 11-4 and by appointment.

Member Artists

DAC officers for 2020; President, Daniela Thomas; Vice-President, Stephen Schlegel; Secretary, Peggy Bonnington; and Treasurer, Bob Privett

Peggy Bonnington (Secretary), Hope Brill, Janet Felts, Leah Foote, Filiz Griffin, Eunice Kern, Jackie Langford, Betty Liles, Gail Meyer, Jaime Moore, Shane Moore, Jane Olson, Beverly Parker, Bob Privett (Treasurer), Stephen Schlegel (Vice-President), Daniela Thomas (President), Mark Griggs, Cliff Whittaker, Connie Livingston-Dunn, Mary Hoffpauir, Hilda Waide, Jonathan Campbell, Terry (Doc) Smith, Toni Allinder, Brigitta Dixon, Richard Gildrie, Jennifer Ingalls, Jackie Lewis, Allene Phy-Olsen, Gerald Gilman, Heidi Hopkins.

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