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Friday, Oct. 30, 2009

Art Space is an entertaining, creative niche at Macon Mall

In an effort to both revitalize the area and bring local artists to the limelight, the Macon Mall is introducing Art Space to the visitors they hope will come to both shop and discover Macon’s artistic talent.

Lili Donaldson, marketing manager for the Macon Mall, discussed the program’s beginning.

“We modeled the program after Crestwood Court Mall in St. Louis. We have dedicated 13-18 vacant spaces in the mall to support artists in the community,” she said.

The Art Space creates a community of artists in one place. With different types of art (painting, photography, drama and even ballet) under one roof, it allows guests to see for themselves what Macon has to offer.

Artist Lynne Barta, owner of Lynne’s Gallery, rented a space that used to be occupied by the Bombay Company.

“It’s a beautiful space,” Barta said in a recent phone interview. “It was meant to be a gallery.”

Barta has brought together 15 artists to share her space, offering a variety of art forms, including woodwork, pottery, painting, photography, and custom jewelry and clothes, for sale at a range of prices.

“I found out about the program through a presentation at the Middle Georgia Art Association and went to visit the mall,” she said.

“I decided then and there to rent. The mall employees have been fantastic.”

Barta’s pleasure is shared by Tim Lee. Born and raised in Macon, Lee opened Real Drama Productions at Art Space. With two plays already under its belt, the theater will be performing “One Way to the Poetry Anthem” at 7 and 8 p.m. today.

Lee says Art Space has “given people the opportunity to do something different from the norm, while at the same time giving something back to the community.”

In a recent phone interview, Lee discussed his high hopes for seeing the program really revitalize the Macon Mall.

“We want to give people a safe place to come and enjoy themselves, maybe come out of their shells a bit,” he said.

According to Donaldson, most of the artists are using the opportunity and space to offer classes.

All of the artists want to encourage guests to come and see for themselves, and this weekend is the perfect opportunity.

In addition to the various galleries, the program is hosting several events, including trick-or-treating, dance presentations and renditions of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.”

Today-Saturday

What: Art Space ribbon-cutting and festivities

When: Noon-7 p.m. today and Saturday

Where: Macon Mall, 3661 Eisenhower Parkway

Phone: 477-8840

On the Web: shopmaconmall.com