MCE to open gallery with reception for teen artist

It is an evolving idea. The promotion of atypical art in the community is behind the launch of an exhibition series at the Maricopa Center for Entrepreneurship.
 
Thursday is the opening reception for the works of Devin Gregg at the new MCE gallery.
 
"Artists have always been entrepreneurs," said Dan Beach, executive director of MCE. "There are a lot of artists in Maricopa, and we want to bring awareness to the community."
 
MCE added Art & Entrepreuneur to its programs after Beach learned several high-level universities like Duke had courses on art and entrepreneurship. Eventually, the new program could lead to workshops for artists on promotion and sales.
 
For now, MCE is opening its walls as an art space, a Maricopa gallery that does not currently exist. The hunt is on for a different kind of artist.
 
Devin Gregg produces the kind of unusual wall art that Beach was looking for. A 15-year-old Maricopa resident, Devin produces works that have "a Nightmare Before Christmas look," according to Beach.
 
Her pieces can be widely interpreted, provoking and perhaps controversial. Definitely "not typical," Beach said.
 
He found her the way he is finding other artists for the gallery, by talking to his clients and asking about unique artists who would fit what MCE is seeking. One suggested the teenager.
 
The opening reception for her art will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the center, 20800 N. John Wayne Parkway, suite 108. It's all about a relaxing evening.
 
"People can just come in and see her art, have a glass of local wine and some appetizers," Beach said.
 
The plan is to seek out other artists for future exhibits. The MCE gallery will show eight to 12 pieces for four to six weeks each.