Since opening Gallery 222 eight years ago, Andrea Strang has kept busy. The space has hosted new exhibitions almost every month, most including multiple artists or group shows. The walls are a constantly changing tableau of bright colors, inviting landscapes, creative portraiture, and friendly animals from across the world. But things continue to change, and the gallery will close its doors on Dec. 14. There will be two final shows, one of which opens tonight, Nov. 7, with a Reception from 5:30 to 8 pm, featuring artworks by Randall Graham and Jan Wier. It is sure to be a fitting farewell and remembrance of all the amazing artists, artworks, and art lovers who have been a part of the journey.
“It gave me so much happiness,” said Strang, talking about her years of owning and curating Gallery 222. When she first opened, she did not know what to expect. “I was so enthusiastic, but I didn’t think anyone would show up!” But that first exhibition, which included a variety of artists and works from the Delaware Valley Art League, “got me off to the races,” she said. From there, she started meeting more artists and giving them a space to show their works, find buyers, and offered the support they needed along the way.
Gallery 222 has created a community of art lovers, and become much more than a simple place to stroll through or shop. “I am going to miss the people, and the relationships,” Strang said. “I have a broad taste in art.” That has been reflected in the many artists who have shown over the years. Her support has been crucial to many as they have gone on to become professional artists, creating their own studios, websites, and successes. “It has been one my joys to see them do well,” Strang said.
When scheduling the fall exhibitions, Strang had not planned for the closure. However, she has ended with some of her and her audience’s favorites, including this new exhibition and the last one, Feathers, Fluff & Fur from Sue Ciccone and Rachel Altschuler. “It really was serendipitous, to end on shows with all my favorite artists—my friends,” Strang said. The Gallery will also host their final annual Small Works show, opening November 30 during the Christmas on King event in Malvern, which will include works perfect for holiday gifting by all the current artists and other favorites.
What is next for Strang? “Taking an exhale,” she says. But she is open to the possibilities of the future, and has some ideas about how to continue to be a resource for her artists. For now, “it is time to move on.” These final shows are a well-earned victory lap for the gallery that you won’t want to miss. The space, Andrea herself, and especially the community that has evolved, however, will certainly be.
Gallery 222
222 East King Street, Malvern Gallery222Malvern.com
Opening Reception:
Thursday, Nov. 7 from 5:30 to 8 pm
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