T-R PHOTOS BY LANA BRADSTREAM - Surrounded by the Chamber ambassadors and Arts+Culture Alliance supporters, Alliance Board of Directors President Michele Buzbee and Executive Director Amber Danielson cut the ribbon in front of the new facility at 126 W. Main St. on Friday.

A grand opening was held both inside and outside of the new home of the Arts+Culture Alliance, located at 126 W. Main St. in Marshalltown, on Friday evening.

The two-hour event featured pieces from 39 Marshall County artists, ranging in age from 17 to 80, who created a variety of artwork, from interactive to pottery and mixed media to photography.

Visitors at the Arts+Culture Alliance grand opening on Friday peruse pieces on the wall from Marshall County artists. The grand opening ran from 5 to 7 p.m.

“Marshall County artists were invited to submit 2D or 3D pieces that meant the most to them,” said Alliance Executive Director Amber Danielson. “Some pieces are for sale. We see this as an opportunity to include as many artists as possible. We celebrate all disciplines of art.”

One of the displayed artists was Marshalltown’s own Austin Chadderdon.

“I think this is an incredible opportunity for this organization,” he said. “Having a portrait here, it’s the first time I’ve ever displayed work in a setting. For the portrait to be seen as a piece of art and not just a product to give to a client . . . it’s cool.”

A wide variety of local art was on display for visitors to observe during the Arts+Culture Alliance’s grand opening event at the new 126 W. Main St. office on Friday evening.

Danielson said they are excited to be part of Main Street and downtown Marshalltown.

“We’re really excited to have an opportunity to have a space to activate the creative community,” she said. “We’re here to celebrate Marshalltown and all its vibrancy.”

By moving into the new space, Danielson said the organization will be able to offer more programs, services and gatherings. They are also preparing grant opportunities.

“This is beach front property,” she said. “With all the windows, people are popping in with ideas or ways to activate this space. We say, ‘The sky’s the limit.’ We have some plans, but the space is for the community to utilize however they see fit to further the Arts & Culture Master Plan.”

A showcase of pottery and wall art debuted during the grand opening. Some of the pieces were for sale.

Alliance Board of Directors President Michele Buzbee was also in attendance and helped Danielson cut the ribbon.

“I’m super excited,” she said. “This space is incredible. I can’t wait to see what it’s going to bring for art in our community.”

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Contact Lana Bradstream at 641-753-6611 ext. 210 or lbradstream@timesrepublican.com.