Cover Artist: Anna Curnes (medium: glass)
Walking up to the ALG Collective building on Dragon Street in Dallas, TX, I was instantly awe-struck by the fabulous contemporary building and its open-air rooftop with art lovers mingling about. Forever the daughter of a renowned architect, I would’ve gladly spent more time just admiring the physical structure of the building, but it was a rather warm evening, so the burst of cool air upon entering this incredible, modern compound was welcomed.
I was greeted by smiling staff, and told that in addition to the art opening, there was also a raffle going on, the proceeds of which would benefit the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center. I mean, how wonderful is that? I was also told to not forget to grab my goodie bag on my way out. Me, forget a goodie bag? Never!
I make my way up the steps and I’m thoroughly overwhelmed, not only by the packed house of gorgeous people, but also by the live DJ that was pumping trendy music through the building. It was like being at a hot new art opening in Chelsea, New York, but this was better (believe it or not)! There were two bars that served delicious beverages, including a Texas favorite, frozen margaritas. I hadn’t even seen any art yet and already, I’m in heaven.
The ALG Collective is comprised of four fantastic ladies: Annie Griffeth, Christi Meril, Melissa Ellis and the owner, Anna Curnes. Supporting ‘women in the arts’ is my jam, and I definitely hit the motherlode here! I first met Anna Curnes pre-COVID, and was introduced to her incredible glass art at a show outside of ALG. Anna was all smiles this night, and when she saw me, she gave me the biggest bear hug (with a full drink in hand!) while rockin’ a yellow neon necklace & some very cool kicks. Anna was having the best time and invited me to take a picture with a group of ladies, which I felt was very kind of her. Anna bounced around the venue chatting and enjoying the moment. The vibe was electric.
I wandered over to view Annie Griffeth’s work, and when we made eye contact, she also came over and gave me a big hug and talked to me about how much she loves working in this space. I mean, what’s not to love? Annie tells me that working with the other ladies on a daily basis makes her happy because she can mingle and be productive in shifts. She says that they have really formed a sisterhood.
I didn’t get a chance to speak with Christi Meril or Melissa Ellis, but their work is striking. I’ve seen both of these artists before and think they are fabulous! Christi’s work often includes neon accents on her artwork and colorful hearts. Her “Modern Love & Nest Series” is comprised of acrylic, pastel, ink, paper, nails and resin on custom canvas. I mean… amazing!
Melissa Ellis’ work is composed of sculpted oil paint that is meticulously placed on the canvas. Tonight, she’s also featuring a collaboration she did with photographer Costa Christ which I’m personally obsessed with! Costa’s 58” x 58” framed photograph is of a vibrant cafe in Greece, and Melissa has added her signature smears of paint on top if it. The overall effect is incredible and there wasn’t one moment throughout the evening that someone wasn’t standing in front of it, transfixed.
I was curious about that trendy rooftop scene I had spied earlier from the street, so I ascended the staircase to the next level, discovering that Anna Curnes’ beautiful hand-cut glass work adorned the walls along the way. I open the door to the deck and was welcomed by a handful of vivacious people; all were smiling, drinking, taking selfies and enjoying the view.
I can’t even begin to describe it! ALG has a 360° view that includes downtown Dallas. I sat down on the cozy couch and took it all in. Naturally, this was a party environment, so the music was blasting out here too. I only wish I could come back at night with a glass of something fabulous and just relax and enjoy the lights of the downtown Dallas skyline… I may have to make that happen sometime soon!
On my way out, I see a swank little lounge-y nook that I hadn’t noticed before. There’s a beautiful rug, two luxurious couches and of course, some perfectly placed artwork. I take a seat and notice a stack of books under a lamp, many of which I happen to own myself. I next pick up an official Scout Guide (Dallas Edition) and see that ALG is featured in the exclusive book, which doesn’t surprise me one bit. In this wonderful (not so little) space, I feel like I’m at home and welcome here, even with so many people milling about.
As they all mingle though the densely packed room of attendees, I look at the ladies that make up the ALG Collective, and think to myself how lucky they are to not only have this space, but to have each other. Afterall, ALG’s tag line is, “We’re called together to create together.” Hey ladies, “Need a fifth?” Ummm…sign me up! 🤪
Article & Photos by: Mouty Shackelford
note: all images are cropped square & may be a partial representation of the art.
