In-Town Gallery Marks 50 Years of Artistic Innovation and Community Engagement in Chattanooga

Celebrating Half a Century of Creativity at In-Town Gallery

Chattanooga, TN — Get ready to groove back to the glorious ’70s this month as the beloved In-Town Gallery celebrates a remarkable milestone: its 50th anniversary! The festivities promise a blend of retro charm and artistic brilliance, making it a must-visit event for art lovers and history buffs alike.

Special Reception on September 20th

Mark your calendars for an evening of nostalgia and community spirit as In-Town Gallery hosts a special reception for past and present members, friends, and family on Friday, September 20th from 6-8 pm. This gathering is the perfect opportunity to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate the incredible journey of the gallery. Expect heartfelt anecdotes, inspiring stories, and a hearty dose of camaraderie.

Groovy ’70s-themed Events on September 21st

The excitement continues the following day on Saturday, September 21st – the official anniversary date – when the gallery turns back the clock to 1974 with a lineup of ’70s themed events. From flared trousers to funky tunes, the atmosphere will be electric as you indulge in fondue and mimosas, enjoy poetry readings, performance art, and immerse yourself in the vibrant musical beats of the era. Whether you lived through the ’70s or simply love the retro vibe, this is an experience you won’t want to miss!

A Rich History

In-Town Gallery’s story is as captivating as the art it showcases. Back in the 1970s, Chattanooga lacked a venue for artists to exhibit and sell their work. Enter the “daring dozen” – a group of local artists who envisioned a cooperative space where art would thrive. They began their venture at The Read House Hotel, presenting affordable artwork by Chattanooga artists. This innovative concept, jointly owned and managed by the members, was a beacon of success from the start.

As the years passed, In-Town Gallery continued to grow, moving to larger spaces to accommodate its expanding membership and offerings. In 1984, the gallery relocated to 718 Cherry Street, and by 1994, it made a strategic move to the up-and-coming Northshore area, settling “Between the Bridges” on Frazier Avenue, where it proudly remains today.

Modern Day Innovation

The gallery has evolved while staying true to its roots. The addition of fine craft pieces, monthly live demonstrations, and shows by both member and visiting artists keeps the gallery dynamic and engaging. Their popular “Art After Hours” events bring the community together regularly to celebrate local creativity.

A Testament to Artistic Legacy

The current exhibit, which features artwork from present members and a special retrospective wall dedicated to the art of past members, is a testament to In-Town Gallery’s enduring legacy. The creativity and dedication of multiple generations of artists have been the cornerstone of the gallery’s success, consistently bringing fresh and innovative art to the Chattanooga community.

Celebrating half a century in the arts scene is no small feat, and In-Town Gallery has done it with style and grace. If you’re looking to be inspired by local talent or simply want to be part of a joyful celebration, head over to the gallery ‘Between the Bridges’ on Chattanooga’s North Shore at 26A Frazier Ave. They’re open from Mon-Sat 11-6 p.m. and on Sundays from 12-5 p.m.

Here’s to another 50 years of artistic excellence and community spirit at In-Town Gallery!