Columbus Artists' Guild

Kay Barnett with her Best of Show

Our Heritage

The Columbus Artists' Guild was formed in 1950 from an idea by Mrs. Betty Fielder Mitchell, who had the foresight to see the need for area artists to have a common organization. She was aided in this endeavor by the Christian Fellowship Association. The group was originally called the Columbus Art League, and eventually became the Columbus Artists' Guild. The first president was Jim Minor. There have been many presidents since then, each contributing to the growth and development of the organization. The Artists' Guild of Columbus, Georgia, Inc. incorporated in 1983; applied for, and received the 501c3 non-profit status in March 1985. This corporation operates under the trade name of "The Columbus Artists' Guild," and can receive tax deductible donations as a non-profit organization.

The Guild Today

The Columbus Artist's Guild, CAG, is an organization for artists and art lovers in the greater Columbus, Georgia area, which has been operating continuously since 1960. Some of our over two hundred members are not artists but have a desire to support and share the arts in some way. In 1993 the Guild became a part of the Columbus Cultural Arts Alliance, which has given a common ground to all Chattahooche Valley area non-profit arts organizations.

The Columbus Artists' Guild meets once a month, except in the months of September and November. Our meetings are held at various places, the time and location of which may be found by calling 706-327-1344. Members receive postcards each month telling the location and the program of the month's meeting. Our meetings contain a short business portion, and then an excellent art related program. Our December meeting is a Christmas party. We hold several workshops each year at modest prices, and paint together in outdoor locations. Members receive 4 newsletters per year. We get together for fellowship, encouragement, and education in the arts.

Our Members' Show is held annually. It is open to all members, without jurying. Cash awards are given at the show's opening. The 2007 and 2008 shows were held at the Columbus Library, at 3000 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia.

The membership year for the Columbus Artists' Guild is from January to December. Dues are $30 per year, due in January. An application can be found on our Membership Page.

(The early history of the Columbus Artists' Guild was contributed by Mollie Mealing, a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. An author of numerous books, Mollie's contributions to the art community are widely recognized.)