Water Gallery is a Hidden Gem in Dresher Arcade

In the rear corner of Dresher Arcade, you'll find an oft overlooked art gallery. 

Though its location may be subtle, the artwork and stylings within the gallery are just the opposite. 

Welcome to the Water Gallery.

"Our goal is to introduce a certain kind of visual art and crafts to Lansdale," said Helen Mirkil, co-founder of the Water Gallery.

Helen, her husband Brian Peterson, and Aaron Weiner spoke to the borough about creating an arts district in Lansdale.  Last September, they took the first step as the doors of the Water Gallery first opened to the public.

The founding trio is joined by an additional 11 artists, all with their own distinct style.  For instance, Rick Gallagher is a professional glass blower, and has made some amazing pieces which are currently on display.

Another artist, Bette Conway, is a certified geologist by trade, and yet uses some of the more unique stones to create some of the most ingenious jewelry designs one can conjure up. 

Even Lansdale Mayor Andy Szekely is part of the co-op, displaying his hand-made furniture.

First Fridays are especially important to the gallery, which usually hosts a reception with food and music. 

On the April First Friday, guest artist Suzanne Halstead, of Pottstown, had many of her works on display.  Additionally, Emmy, from Boston, and Joel, from New York, entertained guests with a unplugged musical set.

As for the day-to-day operations, the gallery is open Thursday through Sunday, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., though on Fridays they stay open until 9 p.m.  Even if you've frequented the gallery before, the staf makes sure no two visits are the same.

"The featured artists rotate every month of so," said Gallagher.

"Every time we have a show, all the members are represented, as long as they want to be," added Mirkil.

The Water Gallery's commitment to the community goes far beyond simply showing off some nice artistic pieces.  In fact, community outreach is one of the founding principles of the gallery.

"One thing that that is really important with our vision for the gallery is to connect with the community," said Mirkil. "We did so well in December, we were able to say that now was the time to do something in the community.  Today we handed the galleries proceeds from January and February over to Manna on Main Street."

When reached by phone, co-founder Weiner said the amount donated "was around $1,100."

Looking forward, the Water Gallery is always looking for new artists to work with and feature.  Though it's preferred the artist has prior experience in galleries, they also welcome the less-seasoned artists, as is evident by their relationship with several young painters and photographers.

Submissions are welcome, through the Water Gallery website, which is http://www.watergallerylansdale.com.  From there, you can access the email portal, where you may send samples of your work over for review.