Leslie Patterson has been a dedicated fixture in the Amarillo art community for the last decade, actively collaborating with multiple art groups to promote local talent.
While her work is regularly showcased at the Amarillo Art Institute, a small new gallery — nestled in the Painted Gulch area behind Penny Clark’s well-known Texas Route 66 Visitor Center — marks an exciting new chapter.
Founder and artist Patterson will be celebrating her new location, named Ragtown Arts Gallery, at an open house on Friday, June 26.
The event will be come-and-go, from 5 to 9 p.m. at 1900 SW 6th St. in Amarillo.
The opening will feature live music by Eric Hinojos, refreshments, food trucks and a vibrant showcase of local talent.
The colorful displays of her art will be featured at the grand opening of the gallery, conveniently hidden behind the popular Route 66 Visitors Center on Sixth Street.
The gallery will display Patterson’s art, as well as works by others from throughout the community.
“The art community and its incredible supporters have given us so much — friendship, opportunities, support, and every single like and share. Now, it’s time to pay it forward and build a world with more whimsy, imagination, and creative spark. Together,” a post from Ragtown Arts says on Facebook. “Stay tuned for our very first call for entries.”
The gallery will also be hosting juried group exhibitions, solo artist spotlights, vibrant vendor events, one-night-only events and more.
They’ve also teamed up with the visitor center to host Summer nights on 6th at the Painted Gulch and are seeking performers including solo acts, duos and trios and small bands or acoustic sets.
The area, Painted Gulch, recently hosted the group of Amarilloans who came out to witness and be part of local history when the Route 66 Mural was unveiled last week.
The colorful murals and small Western setting form a perfect venue to local artists and entertainment.
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Colorful new gallery opens up on Route 66 behind visitor’s center
Reporting by Nell Williams, Amarillo Globe-News / Amarillo Globe-News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Nell Williams, Amarillo Globe-News | USA TODAY Network
