Artists Showcase Work in Library

Once a group that featured 150 members, the TriCounty Artists of Long Island has become a smaller, and they say exclusive, organization.

TCA brought it's exhibit to the downstairs meeting room of the where it will stay through September.

The group used to accept anyone who wanted to take part in exhibitions, but after the year 2000, the decision was made to considerably downsize.

"We cut all the way down to 22," TCA President Gil Kessler said. "Some people joined to just put out their work. They weren't interested in helping or coming to the meetings. That's different now."

Despite expecting a response when members were removed from the organization, Kessler heard nothing, and TCA moved forward without them. Now, to become a member, each prospective member goes through a probationary period and then has to be voted in. This helps prove the potential member's work ethic and commitment to the group.

"Now I can ask anyone to do anything, and I know that they will say yes," Kessler said.

As of now, TCA has been capped at 22 members, and the only way a new member can be added is to replace an existing member that leaves.

The non-profit organization, formerly known as "Malverne Artists," hosts exhibits at local community venues. Meetings are held monthly at the Baldwin Recreational Center in Baldwin Park.

Kessler has three acrylic pieces on display at the East Meadow exhibit. He has been involved with TCA for about 10 years, and is in his second presidency.

"We have pride in our work," Kessler said. "It shows our level of commitment."

A former school teacher and now second vice president of TCA, Ludy Perez has been an active member for about 18 years. The exhibit features three of her oil pieces. Perez handled a portion of the arrangements for this exhibit.

"We usually hold three to four exhibits a year at community centers such as libraries or sometimes churches," Perez said. "The East Meadow Library has done an amazing job for us."

For more information regarding TCA's featured artists or their works, visit their website.