A particular building in the city of Norcross has a very interesting history that few know or remember. In its past it has been a library, a baseball museum, and a dark, less than inspiring space for artists, until, in a cooperative effort of the city of Norcross and an emerging group of artists, it became Kudzu Gallery and Studios. It has evolved into its present function as a light, bright, appealing gallery and artists’ studios.
Located at 116 Carlyle Street in downtown Norcross, the building is owned by the city and for 14 years has operated as an art center originally called Kudzu Art Zone and now known by its more descriptive Kudzu Gallery and Studios. The name Kudzu was chosen for its rapid growth, tenacity and omnipresence in the southeast. A group of alert artists, the Berkley Lake Artists, needed a gallery and studio space and together with the city of Norcross, renovated the building and made it into the cheerful, pleasant space it now is.
As its name implies, Kudzu continues to grow, becoming an arts destination for art lovers and offers classes, workshops, and open gallery sessions with plenty of space, lighting, camaraderie and help and critiques from fellow artists. There are exhibits of original works about every six weeks with opening receptions for the public with food, wine and an opportunity to meet the artists and enjoy festive social evenings with friends. Also, it is a way to keep up with the local art scene and purchase art for one’s home that will have special appeal, being created by an artist you have met.
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Kudzu Gallery and Studios is very grateful to Norcross for granting an opportunity to have this beautiful space and together with the city, add to the city’s already enormous attraction as a favorite place for entertainment, dining and culture. Kudzu is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose goal is to support local artists while serving art buyers and the community while shining as a cultural hub for the area.
Kudzu Gallery and Studios’ vision is to be a multi-disciplinary place of creativity and growth, regionally recognized as a leader in the presentation and support of artists and emerging visual art forms. In doing so, we encourage exploration and involvement across the diverse cultures of our communities. It is open Monday through Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm and is located in downtown Historic Norcross at 116 Carlyle Street. The website is kudzuartzone.org.
