East Fork Gallery history
In 1979, thirteen adventurous artists pooled wisdom, resources, and talent to establish the East Fork Artist Gallery, a non-profit cooperative, providing a placewhere artists could exhibit and sell their creations; the public would have the opportunity to enjoy and purchase original quality artwork.
The old Gardnerville Western Auto store, located across from the JT Bar was available. With little money, vision and hard work, generous volunteers and time, the building was made presentable and the first art gallery in the Carson Valley opened its doors on July 13. Members and community celebrated the grand opening on July 29 with a public reception.
In Oct. 1985, the East Fork Artists introduced the now annual Scarecrow Festival where members help participants make life size scarecrows. This event is held the first Saturday each October.
In January 1995, an arsonist set fire to the old historic building and the East Fork artists lost their home and most of the art. Eight members carried on to find a new home for the gallery. April 1995, a two-day spring reception was held at the old Farmers Bank in downtown Minden, encouraging the artists to keep painting and carry on.
Seven months after the devastating fire, in August 1995 the East Fork Gallery was reopened inside the Carson Valley Museum and Cultural Center, the old Douglas High School building.
In July 2000, the artists found themselves in yet another setting, our current location in the Record Courier Center.
Many artists have participated in the gallery as either full members or consignors. The gallery is proud to have Elfriede Short as one of the charter members of the gallery still active in the gallery.
FACTOIDS:
East Fork Gallery has 40+members and consignors
The gallery is open open daily 11am-4pm Tuesdays-Saturdays
Exceptions: closed Dec 25-Jan2
The annual Christmas reception is held the first Sunday in December
The annual Scarecrow Festival is held the first Saturday in October
The annual Anniversary reception is held in July each year.
