Artists who wish to exhibit their work in a superior exhibition space should consider the Tombaugh Art Gallery.
Gallery Mission
The mission of the Tombaugh Art Gallery is to reach out to the wider community so that thought-provoking art may be contemplated within an open, tolerant and forward-reaching faith community.
Exhibitions
Gallery exhibitions normally change every month. The gallery is operated by a committee of artists and church members who meet once a month to review artists’ submissions and coordinate installations. The Gallery Committee promotes emerging artists and welcomes new artists and groups of artists to show their work in the Tombaugh Art Gallery. The Committee chooses artists who will challenge the viewers to think “outside the box” and open their minds to different ideas and ways of engaging with art and the greater world.
Why the Tombaugh?
Since 2000, the Tombaugh Art Gallery has established its reputation as an outstanding exhibition space. In 2010, artists’ shows enjoyed more press coverage than ever before. In February 2010 a record 32 pieces were sold at a single show and in September 2009 the gallery participated for the fourth year in the annual Las Cruces ARTSHOP tour of galleries.
The gallery attracts exhibits in all styles and media due to its flexible climate-controlled space, high ceilings, and fine lighting. The Gallery Committee will help artists mount solo, two-person and group exhibitions. In addition, they will work with exhibiting artists to ensure that their shows are well publicized.
Physical Specifications
Gallery space can be modified with pedestals and a movable, modular mesh “wall” to in order to showcase the artist’s work to its best advantage. A new thick-monofilament mounting system suspends art from special moldings and holds items weighing 70 pounds or less. Mounting chains are available for larger art pieces.
Opening Receptions and Artist Talks
In addition to helping artists publicize their work, the Gallery Committee conducts an opening- reception, usually with refreshments. The Committee encourages artists to participate in an artist’s talk, which provides an excellent way for artists to connect with the public.
Accepted artwork is hung by an a curator from the committee and one or more volunteers. The committee facilitates sales at the opening reception while a docent coordinator ensures that a docent, who is qualified to sell the artist’s art, is in the gallery during all operating hours. Artists are paid at the end of the show and sold art is generally not removed from an exhibition until the show is taken down. If a piece is removed prior to the show’s closing, the artist may replace the work with another piece. The Gallery Committee encourages all artists to sell their work and limit the number of “not for sale” items.
Calls For Exhibition
A general call for artists is made early in the year and the committee decides on the next year’s shows in October. The gallery also occasionally calls for artists for special juried shows.
Gallery space is booked through 2011, but artists are encouraged to apply for showings in 2012.
