There is an incredible amount of artistic talent in Plumas County. Monday evening, Oct. 19, at a gallery on Main Street in Quincy, what was previously a great idea became a reality with a simple show of hands. Main Street Artists was born.
    Lara Eichenberger is not an artist herself; however, she has always had a great appreciation for all forms, whether photography, painting, textiles or sculpture. A great idea was hatched when Lara noticed the “for lease” sign in the window of The Studio Gallery.
    She thought it would be a crime to see this elegant gallery with its wooden floors, dramatic lighting and sophisticated uptown feel be turned into just another office space. It had to be saved. She wasn’t quite sure how to begin, but immediately went to work reaching out to a few of the more well-known artists of the area, who responded with great enthusiasm.
    They in turn put her in contact with others. The ball was rolling and gaining momentum. Her goal was not to have and be the sole director of an art gallery, but to facilitate the organization of a venue for local artists to display their talent—a collective, where each member has a voice.
    A small group of prominent artists, including Bill Peters, Philip Gallagher, Dianne Lipscomb and Sally Yost, formed the Selection Review Committee. Artist members pay a one-time fee of $75 and monthly dues to cover the overhead. Artist members will pay a 20 percent commission and consignment members will pay a 40 percent commission.
    All artists are free to show their work at any other venue or gallery. Each artist member will be given a two-week individual show during the calendar year, and will display a work of their art in a member artist room display at all times for the purpose of acquainting visitors with the members’ work and contact information.
    Whether the medium is sculpture, painting, photography, textiles or pottery, the art selected and displayed will be of the highest quality.
    Once the gallery is really rolling it will be a great venue for art classes and events.
    The Art Walk will be Main Street Artists debut Nov. 6. Main Street Artists gallery is at 436 Main St. in Quincy. The gallery will be open to the public Thursday–Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m., with hopes for expanding as events and interest warrant.
    Folks don’t have to be artists to be involved in this new and exciting nonprofit endeavor. They can become patron members by volunteering their time and whatever dollar amount they see fit.
    As patron member J.P. Reynolds put it, “It’s just good for the soul of the community.”
    To become a member and find out more information, contact Lara Eichenberger at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or co-director Carla DeBoer at the Eagle’s Nest Gallery.