Fall Downtown GalleryWalk a success at 9 local galleries

The forecast called for rain, but warm, sunny weather prevailed Friday as people of all ages roamed the streets during Bloomington’s Fall Downtown GalleryWalk. \nMarked with colorful balloons and signs, nine local galleries opened their doors to the public. The displays spanned a wide range of artistic genres and styles, from watercolor paintings to African sculptures. \nPrima Gallery, Bloomington’s oldest art gallery, featured the stylistic works of Rudy Pozzatti, a retired IU art professor. At age 82, Pozzatti continues to create collages and paintings that feature images of youth and popular culture. Marcy Neiditz, director of Prima Gallery, is proud of the event’s ability to join local artists with a local audience.\n“Originally, galleries just functioned as simple displays. We felt a need to be more cohesive with other galleries and with the community. (The GalleryWalk) allows us to collaborate with other galleries to give people a taste of local art,” Neiditz said.\nThe Wandering Turtle Art Gallery was perhaps the most festive of the group. A three-piece jazz band serenaded viewers as they took in an array of tapestries, jewelry, paintings and sculptures. The gallery also offered tarot readings, free wine samples and food, and provided a louder, party-like atmosphere for its guests. \n“I thought that this walk was a lot more energetic than any of the others,” said Ryan Dagley, an employee of The Wandering Turtle. “There were a lot more people at this one. There were really no dull moments the entire night.”\nLocal businesses also took advantage of the unusually large downtown crowd. Inner Chef used the GalleryWalk as an opportunity to give free cooking demonstrations and Pure Pilates Hair and Body gave in-store tutorials on health and body care products.\nLindsay Whisler, a freshman, said she enjoyed the event’s cultural, community-based atmosphere.\n“It’s a neat way to get out and be able to see some of the local artists’ work and a fun way to see Bloomington,” she said. \nWith nine galleries to choose from, people had the ability to indulge in several different artistic styles and themes.\nAlthough Whisler was pleased with her experience, she said she thinks more students should share in the excitement.\n“I feel like there are so many events like this going on in Bloomington that people just don’t know about,” she said. “I think more people should come enjoy them.”\nThe fourth and final Downtown GalleryWalk of the year will be Dec. 7.