Ampersand Guild

Location: 382b Cherry St, Macon, Ga

Date: 2017 - 2020

Discover Community

Ampersand Guild, was a vibrant open-membership artist-run space nestled in downtown Macon, it served as a thriving creative hub until its closure in 2020 amid the global pandemic. Featuring an eclectic mix of an art gallery, blackbox theater, private artist studios, and collaborative workspaces, Ampersand Guild was a cornerstone for Macon's artistic community. Prior to closure, it boasted a diverse membership of around 200 artists, including models, visual artists, musicians, poets, playwrights, writers, and more. It provided a supportive environment where artists could exhibit, perform, and collaborate, fostering a rich tapestry of artistic expression and community engagement.

German Enamorado painting a small mural at the Ampersand Guild in Macon, GA. The image showcases his artistic process and creative expression within the collaborative artist space.

Creating a space that welcomes artists from diverse disciplines and various stages of their careers is crucial for fostering innovation, collaboration, and community within the artistic landscape. When painters, musicians, writers, actors, and creators of all kinds converge in a shared environment, they bring with them unique perspectives, skills, and experiences. This diversity not only enriches the creative atmosphere but also cultivates a fertile ground for interdisciplinary collaboration and the cross-pollination of ideas. Artists at different career stages benefit from exposure to new techniques, approaches, and insights that can inspire and elevate their own work. Moreover, mingling with peers from different disciplines encourages artists to step outside their comfort zones, explore new mediums, and embrace unconventional methods, thus pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Ultimately, such spaces not only nurture individual growth but also spark collective creativity, forging new connections and fostering a dynamic ecosystem where innovation thrives.

-Daniel M.

Daniel Montoute being interviewed by a news reporter in front of one of his paintings at the Ampersand Guild in Macon, GA. This moment highlights his role as both an artist and community advocate, sharing his creative vision.