ORANGE PARK — The artwork was bright and so was the spirit on Jan. 22, as the Art Guild of Orange Park officially welcomed members of the community inside its new home.

With the help of the Clay County Chamber of Commerce, the nonprofit cut the ribbon on its new Guild Gallery and Art Museum at 440 McIntosh Ave. — the county's only public art gallery and museum currently in operation.

"I think it's going to help even the artists grow and be even better than we are," said Art Guild President Phyllis Renninger.

The ceremony was attended by members of the local community, as well as various elected officials, including Orange Park Vice Mayor Winnette Sandlin, District 3 Commissioner Jim Renninger, County Manager Howard Wanamaker and Clerk of Court Tara Green.

It was a moment years in the making. The 501 (c) (3) organization was originally founded in 1973 by eight local artists as a support network. Phyllis said talks about having an official building began 20 years ago. However, they never did find the right connection.

Five years ago, she received a grant to restore the T.C. Miller Community Center, what was the town's only Black schoolhouse in the late 1930s. The grant paid for the restoration of the building's track lighting, ceiling, paint, floor and railing. That was when she approached the town council about leasing out the auditorium portion.

Following a long process to obtain the space, as well as much research to craft the ideal concept, Phyllis was proud to finally open the doors to the public. She addressed the crowd with excitement on Thursday.

"This community has embraced us. They have been wonderful to us," she said. "And the Garden Club of Orange Park even came over here and freshened up the flower beds."

After photo ops, a plethora of community members then crowded inside.

Within the gallery, art from Guild members line the walls and shelves. The building's main floor houses pieces available for purchase, many by artists who have won prestigious awards. Walking upstairs, a museum features works of historical figures and information on Guild projects.

"Now they have a place to express it that's local. So, it makes it homey, historical, all those things," said Art Guild Consultant Sarah Sawyer.

"Even for the artists ourselves, we're always trying to improve our skills and to find more people," Phyllis added.

The gallery specializes in a large variety of visual art pieces, including pottery, glass, paintings jewelry and photography. Displays will rotate on a set schedule.

Volunteers will run the gallery and museum, which is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.