14 Sep September 2013
Greetings to all members and I have four special items to bring to your attention.
First I would like to acknowledge all the positive response we have received over our decision to establish the paid position of Gallery Coordinator. This is shared equally at two days each by our outstanding members; Sandy Davies, Judith Sparhawk, and Jillian O’Dwyer. Members now submitting works to shows no longer have to sit at the desk and deal with the POS system but serve a half-day as a Docent. This has helped reduce the confusion that arises during times of handling sales and improved the welcoming atmosphere of the gallery.
Second, On Saturday, November 2nd the City of Redlands will be holding its 125th anniversary celebration. We will be open our normal hours of 10AM to 5PM but I will be asking for our Board of Directors to consider extending the hours until 8PM.
Third, as of May 11th, 2014 the RAA will be achieving its 50th anniversary as an incorporated organization. I am some type of celebration will be planned by the board and operating committee. I hope many of you will be willing to join in not only the planning but the activities when they occur.
Fourth and lastly I am delighted to inform you that the Board of Directors and Operating Committee have authorized a special month long one person show for January, 2015. The individual we will be featuring is Ray Swanson who served the city of Redlands in the late 60’s to mid 70’s. He and his wife Beverly were married here and opened a gallery in Oak Glen where he sold his oil paintings of the southwest and native Indians with an emphasis on their children. Ray and Beverly moved to Arizona to be closer to the subjects he loved to pain and he became a highly respected artist. Several tribes have recognized him as being the best artist at depicting them in their native dress with exceptional accuracy in reflecting their traditional and spiritual aspects. Ray passed away in 2004 and 27 of his paintings were sold at auctions across the US last year for a total of $435,000. His wife Beverly is excited about returning to Redlands and will be bringing some 15-20 of Rays painting to display. Some will be for sale along with Glicees of his works in general. To accompany this show I have arranged for three local experts on Indian history and related topics to provide special lectures.
Larry Harvill, Chair of the Board of Trustees