Gardner Area League of Artists Newsletter

March 2026

 
 

New GALA Members!

Deborah Hood

GALA Board of Directors

Deb Giordano, President

Nowell Francis, Treasurer & Grant Writer

Guy Biechele 

Chuck Heidorn

Susan Ellis

Megan Whitehead, Event Coordinator

Martha Totten

Janet Dupuis, Critique Coordinator

Sharleen Britt, Website & Grant Writer



GALA Committee

Dana Armstrong, Newsletter & Website

Franco O'Malley, Music Coordinator

Diana Bowles, Event & Volunteer Coordinator

Newsletter Editor

Dana Armstrong

news@galagardner.org

GALA was organized to promote the arts as an essential component of a healthy community. We believe that artistic expression is a community's greatest legacy for future generations. GALA will increase awareness and appreciation of the arts by way of exhibits, instruction, theater productions, musical programs and provision of scholarships to students in local schools.

GALA
PO Box 664
Gardner, MA 01440
a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
www.galagardner.org
Visit GALA on Facebook
GALA Events Website

Send Us Feedback!

feedback@galagardner.org

President's Note

Hello Friends,


I hope you will join our monthly Social Art Circle! The gathering takes place the first Tuesday of every month from 1:00 to 3:00pm at 52 Murdock Ave in Winchendon. Join us Tuesday, March 3rd for some fun!


Time to start thinking about our Annual Spring Art & Music Festival in May at the Red Apple Farm. I am looking forward to seeing your new work!


We have a new art exhibit up in our gallery room at the Old Murdock Building. The Women’s Caucus for Art has a wonderful exhibit. Gallery is open Monday through Thursday, 10-2:00. Check it out.


Our Gallery Room is a place to meet and relax with your friends. We have a comfortable lounge set with WiFi and a charging station. You can just come over and spend some time there, work on your laptop, read, play chess, and enjoy the artwork on the walls.


Upcoming Art Classes & Workshops: Keep checking our website and Facebook page for upcoming art classes, workshops, and events. Signup for our e-newsletter and you will receive our monthly newsletter announcements, as well as emails of upcoming art classes. We are planning these upcoming art classes/workshops in 2026. Watch for our announcements.


  • Clay/Bisque/Glazing
  • Beginner Acrylics
  • Scratchboard
  • Book Binding, making your own book     
  • Merrily’s Card Classes
  • Felting
  • Stamp Making/Carving Workshop
  • Alcohol Inks
  • Dry Point Printmaking Workshop
  • Journaling
  • Colored Pencils
  • Pastel
  • Gelli Print Making
  • Oil
  • Photography
  • Watercolors
  • Beading
  • Zentangle


WE NEED YOU! We are growing and need your help. Here is a list of what you can do to help our art organization. Are you interested in helping this enjoyable and artistic group?


  1. Class Monitors: supervise classes
  2. Art Instructors: looking for instructors to teach a variety of arts/crafts
  3. Event Coordinator: help lineup classes and events
  4. Marketing: Help with online advertising for classes and events
  5. Grant Writer


Hope to see you at one of our events.


Deb


Deb Giordano

GALA President

978-407-1419

Debgiordano59@comcast.net

 
 
GALA Events/Announcements

Call for Entries

Annual Art & Music Festival

May 15-17, 2026

Red Apple Farm & Brew Barn

455 Highland Avenue, Phillipston, MA


Deadline to Enter: Sunday, May 3rd

Opening Reception: Friday, May 15, 6-9:00pm (Art Awards at 7:00)


Two options for entering the show:


Option 1: Online Entry which submits your information & payment to GALA electronically.


Option 2: Paper Entry Form. A PDF Call for Entries which includes a form that you print & mail with payment to GALA. Please allow enough time for mailing so that your entry is received by the deadline.


With either option, your entry is due by Sunday, May 3rd


Live music provided all three days by many talented local musicians!


Please support GALA by donating to the raffle table.


Please consider demonstrating your creative process at the show. And if you would like to teach art classes outside under your tent for children and adults. Please indicate your interest on your entry form.


You will need to renew your GALA membership on entry form unless you are a current member. If in doubt, please email: Martha Beadqueen1@verizon.net


*Important Note* Please be sure to drop-off your artwork on Tuesday, May 12th from 4-6:00pm in the Brew Barn. If we do not receive your artwork by 6:00pm, we may not be able to include it in the judging.


Please Forward this email to others who might be interested in exhibiting, vendor, performing music at the GALA Art & Music Festival.


IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER


Entry Deadline: Sunday, May 3

Art Drop-Off at Red Apple Farm, in the Brew Barn: Tuesday, May 12 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Opening Reception: Friday, May 15, 6:00 - 9:00 Awards 7 PM

Art Pick-Up at Red Apple Farm in Brew Barn: Sunday, May 17 4:00 - 5:00 pm


Art Critiques

Upcoming Art Critiques:


  • Saturday, March 21, 10:00am-12:00pm


Old Murdock Building, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon MA

We will be holding the critique in the Gallery on the 1st floor


Are you looking for encouragement and support from other artists?


Bring up to 2 pieces of your artwork (finished or unfinished) to share with the group.


The first 15 minutes we will be social time, then we will go into sharing our artwork. If we have a very large group, you may only show one piece. You are welcome to attend even if you don't bring any artwork—feel free to join us.


Free to all GALA members. New artists, first 2 classes are free.


A great way to receive heartfelt feedback from your circle of artists friends.


You may bring snacks to share with the group.


Janet Dupuis will help guide us during our get together. Email Janet to let her know that you will be joining us at Jandu516@gmail.com. Mark your calendar!


New Community Social Art Circle


Afternoons: 1st Tuesday of every month, 1:00 - 3:00 PM,

Our next gathering will be on: Tuesday, March 3rd


Old Murdock Building (COA)

52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon


Do you need a day and space to spend some time to work on your project or simply invite your friends to an afternoon or evening of conversation and creativity? Explore a variety of art in a supportive social environment. A group with different skill levels who wish to learn, explore, laugh, share, connect, and be inspired. A safe, low key, non-intimidating space. Non-makers are also welcomed. No fee!


Open to ages 15 and above

Drop-in art making group & community connection space


Self-led group—there will be classroom monitors who will assist you.


Spend a few hours to be a part of our social art gathering with artists, friends and seniors! Share your project and make new friends.


You may bring your own artwork or craft project and supplies that you are working on. We do have a community art supply area where you may choose something you would like to try. We supply paints, paper, brushes and other supplies.


Register here


Note: We are looking for volunteer classroom monitors—monitors can take part in creating. If you are interested, email debgiordano59@comcast.net


In Partnership with the Council on Aging

Upcoming Classes

Greeting Card Class


Old Murdock School

52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon


Come join us in creating cards and other paper projects. Work on making it your own design. All materials are included and many materials to choose from. Each month is always a different design.


All ages are welcome; no experience needed. You'd be pleasantly surprised to see what you can come up with! Don't rule anything out! Be prepared to play. Sign up now!  


Instructor: Merrily Varone


Free creative class! Includes all materials.


Thursday, March 19th, April 9, May 21, June 11, July 23

10:30am-12:30pm


Register here



Drypoint Printmaking - Learn the Basics


Old Murdock School

52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon


This is a special 4-Hour workshop! Drypoint is a very atmospheric form of printmaking which allows you to make multiples that have rich, dense blacks as well as fine lines and subtle details. You will learn the basics of drypoint using a plexiglass plate, a sharp needle tool to scratch into the plate, oil based etching inks, and a mini etching press. You will walk away with a small edition of black and white prints you can keep or give away as gifts. Great for making notecards. We have aprons, wear clothes you don't mind getting ink on. Your hands will get messy. You may bring your own tight fitting exam gloves to avoid that.


No experience necessary. All materials are included. Class is limited, register now and mark your calendar. Bring your lunch.


Note: If this workshop fills up and there is enough interest, Tracie will offer another more advanced workshop.


$35 Workshop


Adults and teens (12+) may attend. Sign up now!

Instructor: Tracie Pouilet


Saturday, March 28, 10:30am-3:00pm


Register here


This program is funded in part by a grant from the Robinson Broadhurst Foundation



Introduction to Painting with Premier Colored Pencils


Old Murdock School

52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon


Let's paint With quality pencils & paper! Learn the basics of painting with professional grade-colored pencils through in class demos, practice, and projects. Course material will cover basic tools and techniques for creating mini works of art.


Each class will include a lecture, demo, and class time to apply what you have learned. Topics include: supplies, pencil strokes, value, color matching through layering, burnishing, and use of solvent. 


This is an introductory course for those who have little to no experience with colored pencils. No drawing skills required. You will be using Prisma Premier, professional quality-colored pencils. Pencils and paper will be included.


Materials you need to bring: Reference photos or an electronic device to view reference photos on (phone, Ipad, or laptop).


Three week series: All 3 weeks for only $60. Adults and teens 15+ are welcome.


Instructor: Laurie Bebick

Thursday nights - March 19, 26, April 2

6:00-8:00pm


Register here


This program is funded in part by a grant from the Robinson Broadhurst Foundation



Monoprinting with Gelli Plates - Learn the Basics


Old Murdock School

52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon


Monoprinting on Gelli plates is a fun and accessible way to create unique prints using a flexible, reusable surface that allows for creative expression without the need for a printing press. What is a Gelli plate?


A Gelli plate is a soft, gelatin-like printing surface made from non-toxic synthetic materials. It is designed for monoprinting, allowing artists to create one-of-a-kind prints by applying paint or ink directly onto the plate and then transferring the design onto paper. Gelli plates are durable, reusable, and easy to clean, making them a popular choice for both beginners and experienced artists. The process involves applying paint or ink to the plate, spreading it evenly with a brayer, and then pressing paper or other materials onto the surface to transfer the design. Thanks to the plate’s smooth and pliable texture, you can create detailed, layered prints with various colors and textures.


Monoprinting on Gelli plates is an enjoyable and creative process that allows for endless experimentation. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, Gelli plates provide a versatile medium for creating unique prints that can be used in various art projects, including collages and mixed media works. Enjoy exploring the possibilities, bring an attitude of curiosity! Suggestion: Use your prints as your journal covers. All Materials are Included, Bring your Lunch and some tight surgical gloves.


3 Hour Workshop - $35, Adults and teens (12+) may attend. Sign up now!


Instructor: Shara Osgood

Saturday, April 11, 11:00am- 2:00pm


Register here. Class is limited.


This program is funded in part by a grant from the Robinson Broadhurst Foundation

Call for Art Instructors

Would you like to teach an art class or are you looking to find a specific art class to take?


If you are interested in teaching a class in the arts, please fill out this online form to let us know you are interested. We will work with you to put together your class.


If you are interested in taking a class or workshop in the arts, you may also fill out the online form and let us know what you are looking for and we will get back to you.


We are looking for instructors and individuals who will teach or lecture in various forms of art: fine arts, photography, ceramics, writing, poetry, music, digital art, and more.


We have several locations in the area where we can host classes.

 
 
Member News & Exhibits

Janet Dupuis


The work of Janet Dupuis will be on exhibit on the Village Art Show wall at Boulder Gallery, Fitchburg, MA. The exhibit, titled Mountains and Woodlands, will run from March 1 through May 1. There will be an opening reception on March 7.

Center for Wound Care


GALA offers art in the waiting room at the Center year-round. Three to 12 pieces can be accommodated in this space. We thank the many artists who have responded enthusiastically to this request over the years. Take a moment for tranquility if you happen to be at Heywood Hospital! Visitors may stop by during regular business hours. Proceed up the ramp to the waiting room, and give a shout out on social media to celebrate the arts!

 
 
Shows & Exhibits

The Twenty-Second Annual College Show

ArtsWorcester, Worcester, MA

On view through April 12, 2026


The College Show is now in its twenty-second year, and undergraduate students from across Massachusetts continue to push boundaries. In this year's iteration, 76 works -- by 57 artists across various majors -- fuse into one grade-A exhibition you won't want to miss.


Selected students call the following schools home: Clark University, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester State University, Assumption University, Anna Maria College, Quinsigamond Community College, Framingham State University, Fitchburg State University, MassArt, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Westfield State University, and Lesley University.


Vibrant printmaking, a crochet Piet Mondrian replica, and careful portraiture of loved ones are just some of what to expect. With a wide array of content and mediums, these artists bring you a little mix of everything -- and the kitchen sink, too.


Join us for a public reception on Friday, February 13, 6:00 to 9:00 PM to celebrate the talent in this year's showcase. This event is free and open to the public. A cash bar will be available. Prizes will be announced and awarded by our prize juror Andrea Olmstead at the event.


Following the public reception, gallery hours for the Twenty-Second Annual College Show will be Wednesdays through Sundays from 12 PM to 5 PM, through April 12.


Learn more


ArtsWorcester

44 Portland Street, Worcester, MA 01608

508.755.5142

artsworcester.org


Princeton Arts Presents

Princeton, MA

Two Presentations by Two Internationally Recognized Local Artists


Princeton Arts presents “Out the Studio Window“, a lecture by Barry Van Dusen on Friday, March 20, 7-8 p.m. at the Princeton Community Center, 206 Worcester Road, Princeton.


Many artists travel widely in search of new subjects, while others spend their entire artistic lives much closer to home. Andrew Wyeth did all of his work in two small areas of Maine and Pennsylvania, and Claude Monet spent the last four decades of his life painting the gardens right out his back door.


Princeton nature artist Barry Van Dusen has done his share of traveling, but he, too, continues to find abundant inspiration nearby – many of his paintings feature subjects observed out the windows of his studio in central Massachusetts. In this one-hour illustrated talk, Barry takes you along in his explorations of nature “Out the Studio Windows”.


Princeton Arts presents “Documentary Filmmaking”, a lecture by Michael Singh, on Friday, April 24, 7-8 p.m. at the Princeton Community Center, 206 Worcester Road, Princeton.


Michael’s presentation will include short clips from some of his award-winning documentary films. Listening to his explanations, viewers will learn how he turns raw footage into storylines. Examples will include excerpts from a "medical reality" episode he produced and wrote for the Discovery Channel; a controversial “essay film” on Islamophobia in Hollywood; and an autobiographical work-in-progress. He will end with five tips on how best to shoot with a smart phone, a tool even Hollywood directors are now using.


For more information visit:

princetonarts.org

Facebook


Capturing the Light

Jaffrey Civic Center, Jaffrey, NH

The New Hampshire Center for Photography (NHCP) presents Capturing the Light, an

exhibition of current work by its member artists, on view March 6 through April 18 at the Cunningham Gallery in the Jaffrey Civic Center. A free public reception will be held on Saturday, March 7, from 5–7 PM. All are welcome and invited.


The members of the New Hampshire Center for Photography proudly display their photographic art in a lively variety of traditional darkroom prints, digital prints, and alternative/experimental processes. The images displayed are as diverse as our member’s interests, including portraiture, landscape, documentary, travel, and abstraction.


NHCP is a non-profit organization, based at Kimball Jenkins in Concord, that supports photography as a means of creative expression and cultural insight. We focus on the artistic development of our members and New Hampshire communities by providing exhibitions, education, publications, and outreach.


For more information, please contact Laura Adams at the Jaffrey Civic Center at

info@jaffreyciviccenter.com, call at 603-532-6527, or visit the Center’s website.


Massachusetts Women's Caucus for Art

Fitchburg Art Museum, Fitchburg, MA

The WCA MA has been invited to exhibit at the GALA art center. The group exhibition will be on view through April 25.


52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon, MA


Learn more about the WCA MA


35th Anniversary Year Show

Princeton Arts Society, Princeton, MA

Princeton Arts Society celebrates 35 years


When: Through March 5, 2026; gallery hours are 10 am to 5 pm daily.

Where: The Gallery at Briarwood, 65 Briarwood Circle, Worcester, MA 

Contact: Joanne Quinn at jmquinn2@gmail.com or visit www.princetonarts.org


Princeton Arts is turning 35! The anniversary year for the venerable arts organization, which boasts members from all over Worcester County, will kick off with a celebratory show of two-dimensional works at The Gallery at Briarwood in Worcester. The show is open to all Princeton Arts members—and you can become a member anytime by visiting www.princetonarts.org.


For detailed information about the show, including the Call for Artists, entrance requirements, and deadlines, please visit www.princetonarts.org.  


Founded in 1991 by a small group of talented and dedicated Princeton artists, Princeton Arts has grown steadily into a vibrant and widely respected organization with an influential reach far beyond the town’s borders. Welcoming Wachusett-area creators in all fine and literary arts and craft areas, as well as friends of the arts, Princeton Arts offers at least two gallery shows every year in fall and spring, a weekly portrait group with live models, a weekly open studio gathering, periodic music and literary events, a monthly newsletter, and more. In honor of its 35th year, Princeton Arts is planning a roster of special lectures, concerts, and workshops. More information will be upcoming via the group’s website, newsletter, Facebook page, and other social and media outlets.

Events at Great Falls Discovery Center

Turners Falls, MA

All programs are free and open to the public. An adult must accompany children. Inclement weather cancels outdoor programs. For more information call 413-863-3221 or visit: https://www.mass.gov/locations/great-falls-discovery-center; or email janel.nockleby@mass.gov. The Great Falls Discovery Center is located at 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA 01376. Wheelchair accessible. ADA/Reasonable Accommodation: Cell: 617-645-0358, Email: Moneesha.dasgupta2@mass.gov.


Visitor Center Hours: Open 6 Days a Week


  • Tuesdays, 10 am-4 p.m.
  • Wednesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.


Explore the natural, cultural, and industrial history of the Connecticut River Watershed with our dynamic exhibit dioramas. Adjacent to the Canalside Rail Trail, the center also includes the Great Hall exhibit gallery, restrooms, and drinking water.


Great Hall Exhibit: Maps of River History by Joe Kopera  

Ongoing, February 5 – March 28

Come see the secret histories of your favorite rivers! Geologist and cartographer Joe Kopera has studied the New England landscape for over 25 years. View the land like a geologist: Maps of River History reveals the hidden details in the topography of rivers and their floodplains that are clues to the past 15,000 years of their work shaping the land on which we live.


Indoor StoryWalks®

Explore the lives of our favorite mud season amphibians. For ages 3 and up, accompanied by an adult. Meet at the welcome desk.


  •  Ongoing, March 1 – 14: 999 Tadpoles by Ken Kimura. Never underestimate the quick wits of 999 young frogs!
  •  Ongoing, March 15 – 31: The Salamander Room by Anne Mazer. A boy finds a salamander in the woods and imagines the many things he can do to turn his room into a perfect salamander home.


The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT, and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Story Walk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson. This StoryWalk® is provided by Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Interpretive Services.


Nice and Easy Walks

Thursdays, March 5, 12, 19, & 26, 1–2 p.m.

Easy-paced, 1 to 2-mile guided walk, along the Canalside Rail Trail or downtown Turners Falls, geared for older adults, but open to all. Enjoy natural and local history along the way. Dress for the weather with sturdy footwear and bring water. Inclement weather cancels. Meet at the main entrance.


Kidleidoscope Story Hour

Fridays, March 6 (Frogs), 13 (Salamanders), & 20 (When Will It Be Spring?), 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Learn more about our wildlife neighbors in the Connecticut River Watershed. Program includes a story, activities, and crafts. Activities are indoors and outdoors, weather permitting. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Siblings and friends welcome. Meet in the Great Hall.


First Friday: Big Night for Beginners

Friday, March 6, 3–5 p.m.

On a mild, rainy night in early spring, thousands of frogs, toads, and salamanders move across Massachusetts to reach their vernal pools and start the next generation of amphibians. But the journey across roads and lawns can be deadly. Join us for a brief presentation, or come later for games, crafting, and conversations about how to help a local Big Night brigade! Meet in the Great Hall.


Art Naturally – Paper Quilting Migrations

Saturday, March 7, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.

Discover nature through story, poetry and art in our series of free art programs. With instruction and technique, you create an art piece to take home from fabric, paper, needle and thread, inspired by the spring bird migrations. Or, keep it simple with quilting using paper only. For adults, teens and children ages 6 and up (accompanied by an adult and adept with a needle). All art materials provided but feel welcome to use your own. Meet in the Great Hall at 10:30 a.m. for complete instructions.


Artist Reception: Maps of River History by Joe Kopera

Saturday, March 7, 2–4 p.m.

Come see the secret histories of your favorite rivers and meet the artist who made them: geologist and cartographer Joe Kopera! View Joe’s exhibit Maps of River History and learn to see the land and our rivers like a geologist. Light refreshments.


Winter Local History Talk Series: The Grand Trunk Hotel

Saturday, March 14, 2–3 p.m.

What was so grand about the Grand Trunk Hotel in Turners Falls? The hotel, once sited next to today’s Center, was built in 1872 and demolished in 1968. Join DCR staff as we use our imaginations, old photographs, and testimonials, to piece together the story of the grand old days in Turners Falls. For youth and adults. Co-sponsored by Montague Public Libraries.


All Cooped Up!

Saturday, March 14, 7–9 p.m.

The Franklin County Musicians Cooperative (COOP) features solo artists, established duos, and small group performers who perform an unpredictable mix of folk, rock, country, Celtic, jazz and swing. Suggested donations. For all ages. Meet in the Great Hall. Sponsored by the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center and COOP. Suggested donation. 


A French / Breton Jam Session

Sunday, March 22, 2:30–4:30 p.m.

An informal group of musicians gathers to play the enchanting traditional dance music from France and Brittany, commonly known as bal folk. This is not a performance but rather a coming together of musically minded friends. The event is free and open to the public to come and go at will. For all ages.


Montague Public Libraries Presents: Favorite Storybook Character Day

Saturday, March 28, 1–3 p.m.

Whether you want to channel your inner hero, K-pop singer, or a beloved blue heeler pup, we can’t wait to see your favorite stories come to life. Take home themed art inspired by classic and contemporary storybook characters. Costumes are highly encouraged but not required. This is a fun, family-friendly event perfect for book lovers of all ages! Sponsored by Montague Public Libraries. 


Great Falls Discovery Center

Department of Conservation & Recreation

2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA 01376

Janel.nockleby@mass.gov  (413) 863-3221  she/her

My Office Hours: Wednesdays through Sundays

 
 
Classes & Instruction

A Taste of Art

Jaffrey Civic Center, Jaffrey, NH

The Jaffrey Civic Center is pleased to announce a new program called A Taste of Art: A

Free Monthly Art Workshop Series. Join artist Kristen Dettoni on Sunday, March 1st from 12-2 pm for A Taste of Art: Cloth Printing, a hands-on workshop exploring block printing and repeating patterns on fabric. Participants will create block print designs to make unique, one-of-a-kind textiles while learning the fundamentals of designing in repeat.


Suitable for both beginners and experienced printers, the workshop invites attendees to carve block stamps, experiment with color and composition, and print directly onto linens of all kinds. Participants will leave with printed napkins or tea towels and are encouraged to bring their own new or upcycled textiles for printing.


Cookies and tea will be provided, making this a relaxed and creative afternoon of artmaking and community. Thank you to our sponsors for making this program possible: Belletetes Inc., Arts Alive, C&S Wholesale Grocers, and Savings Bank of Walpole.


This program is free and open to the public; advance registration is required. One can sign up on our website or by calling/emailing the JCC.


For more information, please contact Laura Adams at the Jaffrey Civic Center at

info@jaffreyciviccenter.com, call at 603-532-6527, or visit the Center’s website jaffreyciviccenter.com.


Make Art @ FAM

Fitchburg Art Museum, Fitchburg, MA

Saturday, March 28

Drop in between 11 AM – 2 PM


Join us for free drop-in artmaking in the Art Place on Elm Studio, led by a FAM educator. Get inspired by artwork in our exhibitions, then create your own to take home! All ages are welcome and no experience is necessary. No sign-up is required to attend.


In this month’s Make Art @ FAM program, use paint and collage materials to create art that explores a sense of place! This program is based on the exhibition Kaleidoscope: 100 Years of Collecting for Our Community.


This program is generously supported by Rockland Trust and The Cathedral Fund.


More info


Common Threads

Princeton Arts Society, Princeton, MA

Common Threads


Princeton Arts wants us to give old textiles new life. Instead of letting fabric waste end up in landfills, we can collect, reuse, and transform discarded materials into beautiful and practical creations — from rag rugs and patchwork quilts to crocheted accessories and home décor. Let's share our love of sustainability, creativity, and traditional craft techniques. By blending recycling with artistry, we aim to preserve skills, reduce waste, and inspire others to see the beauty and potential in every scrap of fabric.


Gatherings take place every Thursday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the First Congregational Church. 14 Mountain Rd., Princeton. Participants work on their own projects with support and inspiration from the group. (Specific projects are planned for the future. Stay tuned for more info.) All are welcome—meetings are free and open to every skill level. Questions please contact Ingrid at ingridholmes@gmail.com.


Fabric & Fiber Support Group

Keene, NH

You know who you are – you have a bazillion fiber and/or fabric based projects in various stages of completion. You LOVE crochet, knitting, mending, spinning, and all things fiber and fabric based. This club is for YOU!


Looking to sew a patch or replace a button? Lots of fabric swatches & buttons available on location for you to mix and match, along with needles, thread & embroidery floss.


Whether you’re struggling with a project, pattern, lacking motivation or just need some time to work in like-minded company, this space is here to support YOU. Coffee, tea and conversation amply provided the first Sunday of the month 1-3pm.


Learn more


Mill Hollow Course Schedule


$15


Mill Hollow Works, LLC

(603) 852-6827


Figure Models Needed

Mount Wachusett Community College, Gardner, MA

Seeking figure models - Art Department at Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner, MA.


$30 an hour


At least one year experience required.


Monday and Wednesdays with multiple back to back classes, some Fridays, 9-5 and a few Thursdays, 1-4:50.


Apply here


Contact Department Chair Joyce Miller once you have applied or if you have any questions: J_miller@mwcc.mass.edu


Montague Swing Dance

Montague, MA

This monthly dance occurs the 3rd Friday of every month, at the Montague Common Hall at 34 Main Street in Montague, MA.


Swing Dance Lesson is 7:00-8:00PM

Live music provided by the Butterfly Swing Band is 8:00-10:00PM

$20 for dance and lesson, $15 dance only


Supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council

Make Art at Main Street Studios

Fitchburg, MA

Do you get inspired by fellow artists? Would the company of other creatives motivate you to work on an idea or abandoned project?

Come to Main Street Studios on Tuesday evenings. We have plenty of work space for you to set up with your writing, painting, knitting, etc.

We will socialize for a half hour-ish and then have a quiet hour or two to do the work. If you are inclined to share at the end of the evening - or the end of the summer, you are welcome to do so. But that is not required.

Main Street Studios has coffee/tea/water and maybe a few snacks. There are also options for delivery if you want to order dinner.

The point of this evening is to have fun and employ a little gentle peer pressure to kick aside those creative blocks. If you have any questions, send us a message or leave a comment in the event. You can also email studios@fitchburgculturalalliance.org.

Learn at Fitchburg Art Museum

Fitchburg Art Museum, Fitchburg, MA

Learning Lounges


Visit our Learning Lounges! These family-friendly interactive spaces offer multiple ways to explore the themes and techniques within our exhibitions. These activities are open-ended and can be done alone or with family and friends.


Learning Lounges are generously supported by The Cathedral Fund and the Geneviève McMillan–Reba Stewart Foundation.



Find out more


Hands-On Fun!


Create with us from home with activities and tips for creating art with children.


Explore the artistic techniques, concepts, and themes behind Fitchburg Art Museum’s permanent collection artworks through these fun creative projects. Explore the full list of tutorials here.

Art Education at WAM

Worcester Art Museum, Worcester, MA

The Worcester Art Museum’s studio art classes offer accessible learning experiences for all ages and levels.


Express your creativity and discover new skills and media in these art-making workshops. The Museum offers online, in-person, and off-site learning opportunities that cover a variety of subjects and media.


In-person classes are held either in the galleries or in the Museum’s studios. Online classes are taught through Zoom and are encrypted and secure. Teens are welcome to join online adult classes.


Call or email with questions, to register over the phone, or to request a print brochure!


Phone: 508.793.4333

Email: classes@worcesterart.org

 
 
Call for Artists

Call for Artists & Performers

Arts Alive, Keene, NH

Call for Artists & Performers: July 4 Celebration


We’re beginning early planning for Keene’s 250th Independence Day celebration on July 4, 2026, and we want to hear from artists, performers, makers, and creative groups who may want to participate.


The celebration will include a road race, an 11am parade (floats, float-making activities, and creative participants), live performances, and an arts & artisan market featuring visual artists and handmade businesses. This is an interest-gauging phase—no commitments yet, just curiosity and ideas.


We are seeking people who would like to bring their ideas to live for this fun community celebration.


Interested in learning more or helping out? Email office@monadnockartsalive.org


Arts Alive

monadnockartsalive.org/



The Little Gallery at Town Hall

Westminster, MA

Westminster now has a public art gallery open for showings by Westminster artists. "The Little Gallery at Town Hall" is now accepting applications from artists or artist groups who would like to exhibit 2-D work for a month-long show. For more information, visit the Town of Westminster website.

"The Little Gallery at Town Hall" is sponsored by the Westminster Cultural Council and the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

 
Resources for Artists

The Fitchburg Cultural Alliance

Go to our website to sign up for our newsletter and check out our calendar of events in the North Central region.

A vibrant force advancing arts and culture in the Fitchburg community and in the North Central Massachusetts region.


Other Resources

Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) and check out the MCC blog ArtSake


The Painter's Keys where you can subscribe to twice weekly letters from artist Robert Genn.


Visit the Arts Marketing Project website for info, ideas, tools and training on marketing art.


Mini Grants for Professional Development are available through NewVue Communities. More information.

 
 
Ongoing Opportunities for Artists & Musicians

Exhibit Opportunities

Heywood Hospital Wound Care Center  Gardner, MA  (GALA Sponsored Venue)
Contact Vicki Heidorn at  surroundingsgallery@gmail.com  or 978-630-2340

Contact Alice Struthers at astruthers1@comcast.net or 978-597-2057

The Arts Alliance has quarterly exhibits at the Hudson Town Hall, so if you are interested in a solo exhibit of your work, contact Danielle Moskowitz at (978) 562-1646 or dmoskowitz@upwitharts.org.

Falmouth Artists Guild Falmouth, MA

Post Road Art Center  Marlborough, MA
 
The Library is always looking for exhibitors to show their work in the Art Gallery. If you are interested in exhibiting as an individual or a group, please contact the Library Director, Kathleen D. Leslie at 978-632-5298 or kleslie@cwmars.org

Workers' Credit Union  Gardner, MA
The bank offers the opportunity for a small display of artwork at the 171 Main St. branch in Gardner. For more info, contact Monica Whitehouse at 978-632-9207.

Art & Music Instruction Opportunity

The West Boylston Arts Foundation (WBAF) is always looking for artists, crafters, or musicians that would like to offer workshops or classes.

Donating a portion of the course fee to the WBAF to support school arts & music would be most welcome.

If interested, please contact Mark Baldi (508) 767-2803 - work (508) 835-6489 - home

 
More Classes & Exhibits
 
Volunteer Opportunities

We Need Your Help!

There are many ways to volunteer! Please email info@galagardner.org to express your interest in helping out with our organization.
 
 
Newsletter Submissions

Have news about exhibits, awards, events, classes, call for artists or other art info?

Please send your news "publication ready" to news@galagardner.org. See previous newsletters for example formats and the type of info to provide. We strongly recommend that you include a digital image related to the news as well as your website address & links to any venues. Image filenames should include the name of the artist and the work. Please post your press releases online whenever possible and submit a link.


Submission deadline is the 23rd of each month for publication on the 1st of the following month.


Inclusion of items/announcements is always at the discretion of GALA, but inclusion of submissions from non-members is limited to information deemed to be of benefit to GALA members.



 

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