'Memories' at Gallery 529

Through the month of October, Gallery 529 in Littleton will host “Memories,” a juried art show and exhibit of unique works of art. The event will benefit the research and programs of the Alzheimer’s Association®, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter. The public is invited to a free and open reception on Sunday, October 4, 4-6 pm at Gallery 529, 529 King Street, Littleton.

“What are your most clear and vibrant memories?” is the question that has inspired the show.

“Since memory loss is a symptom of the fatal disease, it became a way for the artists to connect with this cause that affects so many people,” said gallery executive director Virginia Wood. The works will include painting, collage and photography. “Memories” is being juried by David Wilson, an artist and gallery owner from North Haven, Maine.

“My dad was just one of the millions who have been afflicted with Alzheimer’s or its symptoms,” said Wood. “With our exhibit, we hope to raise awareness for this disease, while supporting the efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH.”

Gallery 529 will donate the artists’ entry fees as well as 10% of its sales on the day of the opening, and 50% of the sale of the unique “Memory Boxes” being created by Gallery 529 member artists. In addition, some of the artists participating in the juried show are donating an added percentage of their sales.

Exhibiting Littleton artist Ed Franzek, who spent time on his family farm in Groton as a boy, is donating all of the proceeds from the sale of his photo “The Old Chevy.”

“We are inspired by the generous and creative spirit behind this project,” said Betsy Fitzgerald-Campbell, vice president of Communications and Public Affairs at the Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter. “More than 5 million people in the U.S. have Alzheimer’s, and about 120,000 of them live here in Massachusetts. They are our neighbors and family and friends. Gallery 529 is giving the public a new way to understand this challenging disease, and to contribute to the cause.”

Gallery 529 is an artists’ cooperative gallery showing and selling the work of more than 30 artists. The gallery shares an old rambling farmhouse with Act III Restaurant. On Sundays, Act III has a weekly jazz jam, so the building will be filled with music during the opening reception. Information about the gallery is at gallery529.com

“We hope that people will stop by for the great exhibit and stay to enjoy the food and music at ACT III. What can be more fun than live music, good food, original art, and a great cause?” Wood said.

A representative from the Alzheimer’s Association will be at the Gallery on the day of opening to share information and resources helpful to those living with the disease. For information about the Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH visit alz.org/MANH.