About Us:
Arctic Rose Gallery & Art Center (ARAC) opened on May 16th. 2012 in its new 5th Avenue location between Ginger and Club Paris. ARAC is a collaborative effort between Jana Latham, owner of the former Artie Rose Gallery on L Street, Jon and Jona Van Zyle, and a dedicated group of artists assembled by Latham to serve as Directing Members. The Arctic Rose Gallery & Art Center is a group effort that combines the experience of established artists, creative professionals, and up and coming talent.
There is nothing like this in Anchorage, with the force of 10 creative people who are devoting their time, energy and input into the center - nothing that combines retail gallery space, a historical art museum, classes, workshops, events, community service, and even a modified cafe/sitting area to relax in. The new location on 5th Avenue is much larger than the previous Artie Rose L Street location and places ARAC in the heart of the Downtown art scene, which means better exposure for the artists Latham and ARAC represents.
There is nothing like this in Anchorage, with the force of 10 creative people who are devoting their time, energy and input into the center - nothing that combines retail gallery space, a historical art museum, classes, workshops, events, community service, and even a modified cafe/sitting area to relax in. The new location on 5th Avenue is much larger than the previous Artie Rose L Street location and places ARAC in the heart of the Downtown art scene, which means better exposure for the artists Latham and ARAC represents.
ARAC features the work of Jon and Jona Van Zyle as well as the Jon Van Zyle Retrospective Museum - an installation that showcases Van Zyle's works spanning the last 40 years. There is also a unique Virtual Sled Dog ride for great photo ops.
The goal of the Arctic Rose Gallery & Art Center is not only to support Alaska artists, but to engage the community in the arts. "My hope for the future of art in Anchorage is the resurgence of its importance," says Latham. "The downturn in the economy has forced many galleries and art centers to close. Anchorage is an art loving town, but if we aren't called to participate, stay involved, and support art in the community and in our daily lives, our "Art Scene" will slip away. My goal for the Arctic Rose Gallery & Art Center is to bring our community back to art, and art back to our community."
