The Art Co-Op

Photo © Nadi Spencer
The Art Co-Op in Three Rivers boasts of a unique and varied collection of art and handmade gifts. It offers vibrant oil and water color landscapes by several artists. There are beautifully painted, nature-themed gourds by Noi Thomas. Lee Holland, an electrical engineer, offers solar powered music boxes that play ' You Are My Sunshine'. The front window is lit up by lovely light catchers, made with reclaimed antique glass. George Smith offers his pit-kiln and salt glazed pottery. Pam Lockhart shows her intricately carved mosaic-ed vases, tribal masks and furniture.
Also, featured in the shop are Ron Zanini's hand made wooden boxes, made out of locally gathered wood, including the fence posts. Ivanka Czekanska has intriguing Earth Goddess sculptures formed with manzanita and juniper wood, natural crystals, feathers, shells and stones. Gail Finn shows her whimsical folk paintings. Additionally, one can find Kim Elia's hand made books, one of a kind wind chimes and bird feeders, made from cast aways; and the shop also has a nice selection of art cards by many of the artists, including Michael Hansen's beautiful nature photography. Of course, there's the eye-popping jewelry by Tina St John, Clayton Porter, Lisa Noel and Christine Sell. Don't miss Zach Zachery's Tikis and the found object sculpture in the courtyard.
The Art Co-Op is centrally located in this longstanding Sierra Nevada artist colony. The Co-Op opened its doors in the summer of 2009. It started as a concept of Pam Lockhart and was brought to fruition by Tina St. John, who gathered together six local artists to show their work and to run the gallery. It has evolved into an exciting showcase for 25 plus area artists, many of whom draw their inspiration from their close connection with nature.
With the shop's scenic location on the Kaweah River, it's an ideal spot to enjoy an art demonstration or workshop. The popular Sierra Subs and Salads is right next door. Grab one of their delicious sandwiches and enjoy lunch at the table on the back patio of the Co-Op and listen to the river music.
The Art Co-Op, within walking distance of Colors and Nadi's Studio, participates monthly in the town wide Three Rivers 1st Saturday Arts Event, offering hors-d'oeuvres and wine, not to mention new works by the artists. During this event, artists may set up tents to do demos and offer additional items for sale. This is good fun for all. There's something new each month. Restroom available.
Seasons Open: All Year
Hours Open: Wednesday-Sunday 11-5
Fees: No entrance fee
Many of our artists use reclaimed materials to create their works.
We love pets, they are always welcome in the courtyard. Really well behaved pets are welcome to view the art.







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Pam Lockhart wrote on March 29, 2011: In addition to regionally inspired art pieces, the friendly artists at the Co-op artistically wrap your gift purchases in flowers, ribbon and tissue. An artistic experience from start to finish!
Shirley Keller wrote on March 28, 2011: For such a small gallery, there is a very large collection of artists that reflect the beauty all around Three Rivers and the forests up the road, in many art forms. Every time I go through I find inspiration.