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St. Louis’ oldest art organization embraces new space, looks to future

Kathryn Nahorski, Executive Director, St. Louis Artists' Guild
Áine O'Connor | St. Louis Public Radio

On the brink of its 130th anniversary, The Artists’ Guild, St. Louis’ longest running art organization, relocated to the old Famous-Barr building in downtown Clayton from its old Oak Knoll Park location.

Just a few weeks after the move, executive director Kathryn Nahorski has exciting plans for the organization.

“We are absolutely delighted with our new space,” Nahorski stated. “The building was built in the late 1940s, so it has that art deco and ‘modernist’ feel to it.”

Some of the perks of the new building include bigger space and better lighting. This allows for bigger and more interactive exhibits, such as the recent “Celebrate the Move” showcase.

Artists are adjusting well to the new location, Nahorski said. “Even the artists who were attached to Oak Knoll and were disappointed that we were moving, when they walk into our new space, they all went, ‘Wow, this is fabulous,’” she said.

As the organization continues settling in, other plans are also in motion. In the fall, the Artists’ Guild will begin community arts education classes on drawing, sculpting and painting for first timers and workshops for seasoned artists.

For those who would like to learn more about The Artists’ Guild or would like to become a member, Nahorski suggests visiting the organization first. “We’d love for you to come visit to see our new space and plans for development,” she explained. “I really think the first part is to come visit and meet us, and come to some of our programs and take a class. Start from there.”

Don’t have the personality for art? Nahorski wants to remind you that there is something for everybody in the art world.

“I think St. Louis has an amazing art community,” Nahorski said. “If you cannot find something that you like to do, support, or go to in the arts in St. Louis, then something’s wrong. I think we are an astounding city for the arts. There are a lot of artists and visitors and people who love art.”

Related Event

Art of Illustration All Media Exhibition

  • When: July 31 - August 22; Tuesday - Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Opening Reception - Friday, July 31, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.)
  • Where: St. Louis Artists' Guild, 12 N. Jackson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63105
  • More information

“Cityscape” is produced by Mary Edwards and Alex Heuer and sponsored in part by the Missouri Arts Council, the Regional Arts Commission, and the Arts and Education Council of Greater St. Louis.