An artist who has also dreamed of becoming a gallerist his whole life has made history for the city of Villa Rica by bringing it the Landen Prather Fine Arts Gallery–the first black-owned fine arts gallery in Villa Rica. Landen Prather, owner, contemporary artist, and his wife Dr. Marissa Prather, Director of Fine Arts and STEM in Douglas County, “wanted to create a unique space for artists, by artists.”
The gallery features contemporary and modern art collections with an emphasis on emerging and mid-career artists and is “committed to connecting, inspiring, and uplifting others through art.”
“There’s so much talent here,” he says, but “there was an art void,” and he wanted residents not to need to journey to Atlanta to be exposed to inspiring art. He continues, “We live in Villa Rica. So what better place to create something than in your own backyard [and] to actually watch it grow and cultivate it.”
Landen says, “We love our [Villa Rica] families and we love learning. So the inspiration was literally being able to teach and expose [the community] as well as having a permanent place to show our work.”
Landen is excited to bring local and international artists to the forefront and introduce them to Villa Rica. He adds, “We have a vision of trying to make sure that art is for all,” and “that everyone can enjoy, create, and live with real art made by real people. ”
“The cool thing is, art really is for everybody.”
The official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on January 12 with the city of Villa Rica’s elected officials, Douglas and Carroll County Chamber of Commerce officials, and other community members. “I’m really excited to see that there’s a fine art gallery here in Villa Rica. That’s probably something I wouldn’t have thought we’d have,” said Mayor Gil McDougal.
If you missed the ceremony, don’t fret. Through the end of February the gallery is hosting its debut exhibit called “Anchored,” showcasing 14 different artists ranging from local to global. All artworks are up for sale and can be purchased at the gallery or online. The gallery is open by appointment Monday through Friday and 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekends. Visit their website here.
