Oil paintings, pottery, jewelry, photography, glasswork, impressionism, and realism are just a few ways artists are expressing themselves at the Roundabout Art Collective (RAC) on Hillsborough Street. Susan Woodson, wife of NC State University Chancellor Randy Woodson, helped form the cooperative art gallery with 24 other local artists. The RAC’s grand opening is this Friday, April 1st, 11am-9pm, in conjunction with the First Friday event.
The Roundabout Art Collective is a breath of fresh air to the area of Hillsborough Street across from the bell tower. Woodson hopes the gallery, along with the Chancellor’s house becoming the Gregg Museum, and the proximity of the NCSU Design School will change the environment into a more welcoming art community.
“My first love was painting,” Woodson says. “The gallery gives you a different perspective on producing work.” Woodson has several paintings displayed in the gallery showcasing her impressionistic style. In addition, the board did an excellent job of pulling local artists with a variety of diverse styles. Dan Dye, a silversmith making jewelry for 40 years says, “the broad mix of styles and mediums will add to the variety of customers.” The RAC hopes to see customers coming in with one piece in mind and unexpectedly loving something else.
“We are extremely excited about this new retail addition to Hillsborough Street. As soon as you walk in the door of the gallery you can feel the creative talents of the artists from our community,” said Jeff Murison, Executive Director of the Hillsborough Street Community Service Corporation. “Everyone one is invited to come out on Friday night and explore the gallery and celebrate this wonderful collaboration between the local artists, and great addition to the business and NC State community on Hillsborough Street.”
The gallery has also allowed artists like Jack Williams to develop a hobby into something more fulfilling. After retiring in July as an ER doctor, he says, “the RAC built a fire under me to get more pieces accomplished. I feel lucky to get involved. It’s a great way to get to know more local artists.” The artists work in the space for one year and help staff the gallery Tuesday through Saturday 11am to 6pm.