The Springfield Art Guild (SAG) celebrated 45 years at the Richard Byrd Library in Springfield.
The reception room of the Richard Byrd Library in Springfield hosted a festive anniversary on March 12: The Springfield Art Guild (SAG) celebrated 45 years as an organization of artists in Fairfax County by honoring one of their founders and longest standing member, Judy Wengrovitz. Judy and her husband Sy spoke about life in Springfield 45 years ago and Judy's role in the founding of the Springfield Art Guild. Judy shared the story of the handful of artists who decided they needed to organize into a group. From their determination and vision, Springfield Art Guild was conceived and grown to over 100 members. It continues to add new artists to its rolls as a non-profit group.
SAG serves the community's interest in fine arts, crafts and photography. It sponsors education programs, art exhibits, juried shows, classes for adults and children. SAG also provides art scholarships for high school students and local art events.
The event was attended by current SAG members and artists interested in SAG and its relationship to the history and growth of the community. Taylor Holland, Chief of Staff to Supervisor Jeffrey McKay and Christina Ritter, Supervisor Mc Kay's aide, were in attendance.
Everyone enjoyed the birthday cake, punch and refreshments. It was noted by Sy Wengrovitz that Springfield Art Guild has returned to the location where it all started, the Richard Byrd Library. Prior to the library, SAG's location for its monthly meeting place and gallery was situated in the Springfield Mall. With the closure of a large portion of the mall, it was necessary to relocate to a temporary site.
Monthly meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month September through June at the Richard Byrd Library, 7250 Commerce Street, Springfield. Doors open at 6 p.m. for a meet and greet with an art-laden agenda that includes a featured speaker at 8 p.m. The meetings are open to all interested artists.