Op-ed by Dana Nollsch
The Reno-Sparks Convention Center will host the first Reno Tahoe International Art Show on September 8-11, 2022. This event promises to be a game-changer for Reno and Reno’s art community.
The artworld is about to sit up and take notice of Reno.
Last year I had a meeting with Kevin O’Keefe and his daughter Briana Dolan; they are the founders of the Reno Tahoe International Art Show or, as it is better known, the RITA Show. The two of them talked about their plans for an international art show in Reno. I could tell that they have a passion for making this show something special. I was very impressed with their plans, and I was very impressed with them.
After that, Kevin and Briana started the Reno Fine Arts Collective, gathering local artists to show their work and build momentum for the upcoming show that they were planning. From what I saw, Kevin and Briana were very successful with that. As I talked to the artist that Kevin and Briana gathered for their gallery, I felt the artist’s excitement.
Now, the show is scheduled, the venue is set, and the artists are getting their work ready.
A few days ago, I received an email announcing that tickets are now on sale for the RITA Show.
The RITA Show’s website has an awe-inspiring list of local artists and local arts organizations. Some of the local organizations listed are Sierra Arts Foundation, Latimer Art Club, The Generator, Sierra Watercolor Society, John and Geraldine Lilley Museum of Art, Truckee Meadows Community College, UNR School of the Arts, and many more. There are also many individual local artists, such as Rossitza Todorova, Holly Gardner, Stephanie Hogen, Maria Partridge, Lynn Starnes, Kathryn Dudley, Eileen Fuller, Bryce Chisholm, Bunny Carnahan, Asa Kennedy, and so many more.
Galleries from outside the area will also be at the show, perhaps even international galleries?
The RITA Show is focused on attracting designers and architects from all over the world; this is a fantastic opportunity for our local artists. Imagine that Reno could become the center of international art and design. I believe that would be an excellent step for the future of Reno and, indeed, the arts in our area.
We want to hear from you.
What do you think?
Do you think Reno is ready to make such a significant change in direction?
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