About Us

Local artists, in search of information, an opportunity to share their interest in painting, and the chance to exhibit their work, formed the Wabash Valley Watercolor Society in 1989. Many of the founding members were students of Barbara Gresham's at the Greater Lafayette Museum of Art (now the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette). The inspiration and challenges of her teaching were the catalyst that sparked the society's formation.

In the summer of 1988 Barbara's students exhibited their work at the Hiatt Administration Center of the Lafayette School Corporation. The success of this show encouraged the group to seek a means of effectively presenting future exhibits. With that in mind, twenty people met in January 1989 to organize the watercolor society. At succeeding meetings goals were defined, bylaws were adopted, and the society became incorporated. The first two presidents, Ben Rifner and Paul Crane, provided direction and early leadership.

Today there are approximately 60 members including watercolor artists, beginners and professionals alike, from a wide radius surrounding Lafayette. Paintings by society members have been accepted in state, regional and national shows. Locally, the society presents two exhibits each year at Tippecanoe Arts Federations in the Wells Community Cultural Center. The fall show is open to members only while the spring exhibit is juried and open to all area watercolor artists. Other exhibits throughout the year are shown at public buildings and area restaurants.

Monthly meetings are held at TAF on the third Tuesday of the month (August through May) and are open to the community. Presentations, critiques, demonstrations, and group activities are featured. In addition, two watercolor workshops are scheduled each year, one in the fall and one in the spring.