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Business & Tech

18 Artists Create in Occoquan

The Artists' Undertaking provides a home for artists and entrepreneurs.

Inspiration, while it is simply just one word, sometimes encompasses so much more than its four syllables.  One of the simple ways that entrepreneurs find inspiration is hearing from and being motivated by other entrepreneurs. Likewise, artists find comfort and motivation from other artists. Many of the same traits and characteristics that are evident within entrepreneurs are also evident within artists.

At the Artists’ Undertaking Gallery, this fusion of entrepreneurial spirit coupled with artistic creativity comes to a perfect intersection. 

By housing 18 local artists, the concept of collective spirit and inspiration of artistry and entrepreneurship is alive and strong at the Artists’ Undertaking Gallery. 

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Elisabeth G. Hudgins said that “most artists I know would still be painting, sculpting, potting, or photographing even if their work was never seen by anyone else. They do it because they can't not do it. When someone appreciates [the art piece] enough to take it home, that's icing on the cake.”  

Steve Myles, who finds motivation in his “need to create something with his hands” explains, “an artist needs to be able to see (or hear or taste or feel) what others don't and be able to assemble those sensations into something that conveys the impression to others.”

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The Gallery’s History

The Artists’ Undertaking Gallery shop was established in 1977 when four women searched for a studio and teaching space.  They found their “home” in Occoquan, and now their shop has blossomed into a gallery showcasing the magnificent works of 18 local artists.  The name, originally the Undertaking and is now the Artists’ Undertaking Gallery in reference to the building’s former business, a funeral parlor. 

The gallery initial began in the basement of the building where there were divisions for each artist’s individual studio spaces where they could work, teach and sell their work.  However, the Occoquan River wasn't always a friendly neighbor and flooding was a persistent obstacle for the artists.  Since 1992 when the gallery moved up to the first floor of the building, the members have seen many changes. 

The Transformation

None of these changes has been as transformative as in 2006 when one of the neighboring shop owners moved out of the building.  The building owner presented the Artists’ Undertaking with a great opportunity to tear down the walls and expand.  Choosing to expand their gallery would mean the monthly rent would increase, the members would have to do the expansion work themselves, and the gallery would be torn up for a month or two during the busy summer shopping season. After discussion, the members decided that they would expand their shop thus doubling its size.  

September 30, 2006, marked the grand re-0pening reception for the Artists’ Undertaking Gallery, where a ribbon was cut by Occoquan Mayor Earnest Porta and Frank Puelo, representing Supervisor Corey Stewart, who was then serving the Occoquan District.

Jane Ernst described the transformation as “amazing.” Because of the extra space, “the gallery was no longer claustrophobic, the floors were carpeted and the walls were freshly painted.  It was much more inviting and provided customers with more open space where they could leisurely enjoy the works of art.”

The artists are now reaping the benefit of their decision and have weekly meetings and showcase their artistic creations to customers.   

The Artists

Each artist has their own story about how they found their way to the gallery.  Anne Jordan became a member of the Artists’ Undertaking Gallery when the head of the Northern Virginia Handcrafters Guild (also a member of the gallery) forwarded her name for consideration. Jordan described her time with the group as a “wonderful experience.”

Marianne Cordyack explained that the Artists’ Undertaking Gallery was looking for a potter, and the chairwoman Tina Kanmapel came across her website and gave her a phone call.

With this collective motivation and energy at their weekly meetings, each artist has his or her own personal words of wisdom to spread.  Hudgins believes Pablo Picasso was correct when he said ‘Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.’ Cordyack tells aspiring artists to, “Be true to yourself and be sure that your art reflects you and what inspires you.” 

All Artists

David & Dale Barnes, Sterling – Fused Glass

Sherry Chaples, Springfield – Metal Jewelry

Marianne Cordyack, Reston – Pottery

Jack Dyer, Springfield – Watercolor

David & Jane Ernst, Springfield– Photography & Digital Painting

Roger Frey, Woodbridge – Printmaking/Painting

Gerry Gantt, Fairfax – Photography

Bob Horowitz, Fairfax – Wood Turning

Elisabeth Hudgins, Arlington – Mixed Media

Anne Jordan, Fairfax – Copper Work

Tina Kannapel, Fairfax – Eggshell Carving

Frances Metcalf, Springfield – Monotypes/Knitted Scarves

Steve Myles, Oakton - Oil Painting

Barbara Weber, Arlington - Basketry

Jimi-Lee Weber, Gainesville - Basketry & Wood Carving

Alex Wisniewski, Oakton - Watercolor

Contact

The Artist Undertaking

Open 7 Days a Week (11am - 5pm)

309 Mill St. Occoquan, Va. 22125

703-494-0584

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