There are so many factors leading me to this decision. There are increased responsibilities in my full-time day job, as well as other responsibilities such as creating my own art, teaching, community service projects, etc. On top of that, AWR was growing past its prior venue and needed a new space. Expanded space means expanded costs and other financial commitments. (Did I mention I don’t do this
for profit?) The activities such as seeking sponsorships and other assistance to offset the added cost would take up more time. The need for expansion also means more artists to wrangle. (Now I know I noted my non-AWR life is already getting busier.) Seeking and processing applications, designing the show, so many things to do and less time available to do it with the commitment it deserves. What I’m saying here is, as much as I love doing AWR, the rest of life is simply getting in the way. Better to go out on a past triumph than try to squeeze one more try out, knowing there’s so much that could make it not be a happy experience. Art Within Reach will not be gone completely, just a hiatus. As life and those pesky commitments change, AWR can always be revived. Maybe come back in a new and exciting different form. Who knows, but the door is being left propped open. Thank you to all the artists who have participated over the many years, to all the ones who were waiting to get in, but we just couldn’t fit you. Many thanks to The Factory for hosting us for the second half of our run, and Revolution Coffee Roasters and the various food vendors who helped sustain us during our shows. Gratitude goes out to the amazing musicians who entertained us at so many of the shows. Our appreciation to the helpers and volunteers who worked to get the shows up and running so effectively and packed up and out so efficiently. And last, our greatest regards to all the art lovers, or just art-curious, who came and shopped and partied and enjoyed our contribution to the Collingswood art scene. Sincere regards and best wishes for everyone’s future endeavors. Eric Wolff
Founder and Producer, Art Within Reach.
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Artists from the South Jersey and Philadelphia area join forces at Art Within Reach to present a wide array of handmade items to fit every budget. Jewelry, pottery, woodwork, painting, sculpture, photography, etc. All of the profits go directly to the artists. Our mission is to create an outlet where local artists can team up to show their work and make it available for sale at reasonable prices to the people in our own community. It's not just about making money, it's about sharing what we're doing with the people that we're doing it among. We want this to become a part of the fabric of Collingswood. Art Within Reach, building a rich and vibrant artist community.
