What we do as an Association
Happy April LRAA!
I hope all the recent winter reminders haven’t gotten you down. Life in NH, right?
What exactly does the LRAA do as an Association?
Our Mission Statement: “To enhance the ability of its members to create art and to further the appreciation of the arts in the greater Lakes Region area of New Hampshire by education, promotion, display, and sale of the visual fine arts.”
When our founders came together 86 years ago, their goal was simple: to encourage and support one another as artists. They met regularly and held an annual show in borrowed spaces. Over the years, even as names changed, that spirit stayed strong—and about 10 years ago, the Gallery became a central part of LRAA.
With the generous support of Tanger Outlets, we first opened a Gallery space, and in April 2021 moved into our current, larger and more visible location—helping us better fulfill our mission.
So what do we do with this space?
• Monthly meetings (now “Art Talks”) with LRAA updates and guest speakers
• Art classes led by members, including a free monthly kids’ paint-along
• Four exhibits each year (including a Kids’ Exhibit and our August Juried Show)
• Opportunities to show and sell work at multiple offsite locations
• Month-long exhibits at Laconia Library, Gilford Library, and the Belknap Mill
• Community engagement through events at Tanger (like Halloween and
• Christmas)
• Partnership with Castle in the Clouds, decorating a room each year at Christmas
• And of course, our Gallery hanging space—the heart of it all
And who can take part in all of this? All of you—our LRAA members.
If you haven’t gotten involved yet, I encourage you to explore something that interests you. We
have so much to offer, and I’d truly love to meet more of you. Our next Art Talk is Monday, April
20—I hope to see you there!
Gail Brunt
Vice President
LRAA
TABLE OF CONTENT
Monthly Art Drawing
A heartfelt thank you to LRAA member artist Pam Gramm for generously donating this delightful artwork for our April 2026 Free Drawing. Our members truly appreciate her kindness and support of this important marketing effort. This charming image, featuring an adorable young orangutan with a drowsy smile, closed eyes, and wispy hair, is sure to capture attention and warm hearts.
Donations like Pam’s help us create fun, welcoming ways to engage visitors and encourage return traffic to the gallery. We hope other artists will also consider donating artwork for future drawings. Gallery sitters and members can easily support this effort by warmly inviting visitors to enter the drawing, pointing out the featured artwork, and reminding them that participating is a simple and enjoyable way to stay connected with the gallery.
Join the team helping guide the next chapter of our creative community.
Be part of the team that helps guide and strengthen our creative community. We’re looking for enthusiastic members who would enjoy sharing ideas, supporting our mission, and helping our organization continue to grow.
We currently have openings for a full-time Secretary, backup Secretary and Treasurer, and additional Board members. Whether your strengths are in organization, planning, collaboration, or fresh thinking, your involvement can make a real impact.
And if you know a talented artist who would enjoy being part of our creative community, please invite them to join us.
Reminder
Monthly Members Meeting
Stay connected and be part of the conversation at our Monthly Members Meeting!
Held on the 3rd Monday of each month, this evening is a great way to stay informed, share your voice, and connect with fellow artists.
🕔 5:00 PM – Arrive early for our Artist of the Month, a fun and friendly competition
🕠 5:30 PM – Meeting: Gallery updates & news so you’re always in the know
🕕 6:00 PM – Settle in for an engaging Art Talk with open discussion and shared ideas
Come for one part—or stay for the whole evening. All members are encouraged to join!
April 20th Member Speaker
Michelle Palys
Light & Composition
I’m Not Worthy!
Far too many artists quietly tell themselves their work is not good enough, not polished enough, or not worthy of a solo show. In truth, that feeling is often less about the art and more about insecurity, self-doubt, and the fear of rejection. Many artists are far more ready than they believe.
A solo show is not about claiming perfection. It is about stepping forward, being seen, and allowing others to connect with your creative voice. If you have been waiting until you feel completely confident, this may be the very moment to set those fears aside. Take the leap, trust your work, and give your art career the opportunity to grow.
