HILLSBOROUGH, N.C. - s4story -- The Hillsborough Gallery of Arts celebrates its twentieth anniversary year with a show of member artwork titled "This Is Us" opening on February 24^th and running through March 22^nd with an opening reception on February 27^th. The show will include reflections on what being part of an artist-owned gallery has meant for each member and how it has shaped their work. The show will also include an artist talk in the gallery on Saturday, March 7th at 4pm.

In 2006, 15 artists started an art gallery in Hillsborough, NC. "Most of us didn't know each other but we all needed a place to show and sell our work. We found a space to sublet behind a gift shop," said Chris Graebner, a founding member. "None of us had any experience running an art gallery, but we created a structure that has worked well for us." Over time, the gallery has expanded to twenty-one members and more than doubled its square footage. Artists have come and gone but 5 of the original 15 remain. "We are all equal partners in the business, and we all work shifts to keep the gallery open, in addition to doing all the work it takes to run any business. Artists generally work alone in their studios, so we enjoy the chance to be with each other."

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"In 2006 I thought, if this doesn't pan out I just threw away $1,200," says Ellie Reinhold. "We all made a commitment to stay a year and contribute monthly dues of $100. Our vision was a cooperatively run retail gallery with 15 artists who were all equal owners. We had no idea what would come of it, but in 20 years Hillsborough Gallery of Arts has had some 60 artist member/owners.15,000 visitors crossed our threshold in 2025 and we've sold nearly four million dollars' worth of local art since our inception."

"From our first meetings in July of 2006 I felt as if I had found a second home," says Pat Merriman, in whose living room those organizational meetings took place. "With all the years it still feels like a second home; our newer members have brought energy, creative ideas and we continue to flourish."

About the Gallery
The Hillsborough Gallery of Arts is owned and operated by 21 local artists exhibiting contemporary fine art and fine craft including watercolor, oil and acrylic paintings, metal and figurative sculpture, photography, ceramics, scratchboard, turned wood, jewelry, glass arts, and handcrafted furniture. 121 N. Churton Street, Hillsborough, NC 27278. Phone: (919) 732-5001. Hours:10am-6pm Monday – Saturday, 12-4pm on Sunday. For more information go to: http://www.HillsboroughGallery.com