by Regina Yoast

Cape Girardeau's art community just got new digs. And a new art cooperative, for that matter. Starting this month, both the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri and a new entity, the Visual Arts Cooperative, will be showing out of three separate galleries at the same address- 32 N. Main.

But there's more to it than just a change in location. The formation of the Cooperative brings over 40 different artists together for a common cause- to further the visibility of more local artists.

"The Arts Council has always supported local artists," says Arts Council board chair Dr. Bob Gifford, " but we think the co-op will appeal to a different clientele. This is a great opportunity for both groups, and the community."

The Cooperative, which was formed by Cape Girardeau artist and retired physician Jean Chapman, plans to feature works from many different mediums, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, digital, sculpture, stained glass and photography.

"It'll be awesome, looking at the different artists and images," says Craig Thomas, one of the artists whose work will be displayed. "The new venue will provide a place in Cape where the focus is completely on the art, instead of just seeing it in a bar somewhere."

A grand opening reception is planned for Friday, March 14, from 5-8 P.M. Wine and finger foods will be served, and the public is encouraged to attend. All artwork featured in the Cooperative will be for sale, as well as some of the Art Council's pieces. Regular business hours will be Monday through Friday, 9 A.M. to 5 P.M., and Saturday, 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Anyone interested in information on either the Arts Council or the Visual Arts Cooperative can call 334-9233 for details.

MARCH CALENDAR

8th Kim Hommel and Monica Smith, Flute Recital, MS205, 8:00 pm

11th Orchestra Concert, AC, 8:00 pm

13th Concert Band Concert, Academic Auditorium, 8:00pm $$$$

25th Tyson Wunderlich, Piano Recital, Academic Auditiorium, 8:00 pm

27th Wind Ensemble Concert, Academic Auditorium, 8:00 pm $$$

28th Jazz Band Concert, University Center Ballroom, 8:00 pm $$$

30th Christina VanNostrand, Flute Recital, MS205, 8:00 pm

30th Brian Davidson, Guitar Ensemble, MS205, 3:00 pm

General Admission $6.00 * Faculty/Staff/Senior Citizens $5.00

Students $4.00