PROVINCETOWN – The Provincetown Licensing Board heard from the public recently on a proposal to only allow the sale of art in art gallery settings.
Ray Wiggs, the owner of an art gallery with his namesake, said he is worried that the continued sale of art in shops and restaurants could jeopardize the future of art in Provincetown and the town’s reputation as a destination spot for art.
“The reality is that the galleries are the heartbeat of the art scene in town, and they continue to be the major attraction which pulls in thousands of visitors annually,” Wiggs said.
The proposal was met with criticism from members of the public who attended the hearing. Opponents of more regulation said that gallery and non-gallery sales could both thrive in a town where the window to sell art is not open year-round.
Shirl Roccapriore, owner of Oils by the Sea Gallery, said many artists in the area got their start by having their artwork displayed and sold in non-gallery settings.
“I think artists having an opportunity to show artwork on a wall is imperative,” Roccapriore said.
The Provincetown Licensing Board did not come to a decision on the issue. The topic will likely be brought up again after the turn of the new year.
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