Located in historic Gordonsville, the Annie Gould Gallery features local artists as well as those from throughout the country. Upon opening in July 2017, Annie Gould began with a group of artists that consisted of friends and family. This helps to explain the current combination of artists featured in the gallery, both familiar names and newcomers to the area. She has continued to expand her pool of artists ever since opening her doors.

Due to the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic last year, there have been a few changes in how the gallery operates. With the initial lockdown, Gould was able to maintain the gallery’s outside appearance and her windows as a showcase. Many people who drove or walked by enjoyed the windows as a point of interest. She recalls having several contactless sales in large part due to the ability to keep things looking fresh and inviting.

As Phase 1 of the Coronavirus lockdown began, Gould was hearing from a lot of steady customers that they were reluctant to go places with other people present. She began doing appointments only. This was very reassuring to many, and people signed up. The new model of appointments provided a safe place to be, not only for the visitor, but for Gould as well.

As for the gallery’s artists, many began to quickly adapt to the new COVID-19 reality.

As for the gallery’s artists, many began to quickly adapt to the new COVID-19 reality. Some began moving out of bigger studios or art centers and setting up creative spaces at home. Those who normally have very busy travel schedules due to art festivals also had to make amends. Gould has been very impressed with them and continues to promote and show their work.

Gould no longer has a new artist opening reception every two months. Nonetheless, she has been able to continue showing new artists and those who already do well at the gallery. Gould sees this as a constant work in progress and is up for the challenge.

The gallery’s website, www.AnnieGouldGallery.com, serves as a useful resource and is updated on a regular basis. Gould considers it a very useful introduction to the artists that she represents. That being said, Gould prides herself on focusing on real interactions with people.

These conversations can be done by phone or by setting up appointments to provide the safety everyone desires. Gould does allow walk-ins as space allows, with no more than five people at one time. She, along with her assistant, post daily Instagram and Facebook photos with unique messages as well. The feedback and responses to these posts have been incredibly positive. 

Having a storefront with two sizable windows provides window shopping of a wide array of art for the passerby. Those walking the street can get a good idea of the type of art the gallery sells before even entering the space. The interior building has a trademark brick wall where paintings and sculptures hang. The display furniture is a combination of shelves and vintage tables where displays have combined pottery, textiles, and jewelry.

Another significant change in many people’s lives has been a new focus on the home and office. Because of this, there has been an increased interest in items used to renovate one’s living space. Many want to update their abode with a new painting, sculpture, serving dish, or houseplant container. Additionally, special gifts have also been in demand between friends and family who live far away and haven’t seen each other over the past year.

Being a small business in a small town has a certain amount of appeal that now seems more important than ever. Gordonsville continues to grow, and Gould loves the community that includes a variety of safe, clean, and versatile small businesses. 

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