Changes in the arts

The Cape Girardeau art community welcomed a new friend this week, but it's only one of a few changes recently.

Eustis Studios opened Wednesday with the art of Karen Cauvin Eustis and Eddie Granger. The gallery on Independence Street will also host a First Friday reception Sept. 2.

While this new space adds to the list of art galleries, a familiar space will be taking a break.

The Aartful Rose will halt its art activities for an undisclosed period of time. James Coley, who owns the place with his partner Eldon Nattier, said he's hoping to reopen occasionally when they plan a special event -- something to challenge the norm and entice people out of their art box.

Erin Schloss, who used to arrange the art openings at Aartful Rose, has joined Pitter's Cafe and Lounge to tend bar and organize art openings starting in October with any luck.

Across the street from Pitter's, Andrew Whaley at Calix Coffebar on Broadway is looking to fill his bare walls with art this fall.

Even the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri is no longer the same operation. The board of directors voted in August to allow director Amy Pool's contract to expire Aug. 16. Pool started in the position Aug. 17, 2010. The board plans to fill the position, but members say they are working out details before accepting applications.

People say change is the only constant. The art scene seems to exemplify that in Cape Girardeau.