Valley Arts Council Sets Foot in Derby

The art gallery at 37 Elizabeth Street in Derby is up and running and in full swing.  Artists flocked to the scene to be part of the first gallery operated by the Valley Arts Council.  Kent Pierce of News Channel 8 reported live from the gallery on Wednesday March 26th, giving much needed exposure for all artists of the valley.  On hand for interviews were Council President Rich DiCarlo, Secretary Treasurer Leslie Adams, and boardmember Anthony Stachelczyk.  The gallery will be open on Thursdays and Fridays from 4-8pm, Saturdays from 4-10pm, and Sundays from 2-6pm through the end of May.  For months, the arts council has been searching for a way to gain access to the community of art enthusiasts in the valley and have hit it big with this venue.  With Archie Moore's at one end, Connie's just up the street, and the ballroom dance studio close by, the location in Derby couldn't be better.  Diners to area restaurants who use the municipal garage can't help but see the bright green gallery sign above the window and the streets are lined with Valley Arts Council banners, making the gallery visible from Route 8.  They say art can transform a community and this gallery proves it.