When it comes to being creative, the Ampersand Guild shines like a dark and starry night. It’s an eclectic composition, a canvas that connects the stars into eye-catching constellations; much so like the Guild’s resident artists. Everything about this place exudes art. The Guild’s location is in Macon’s downtown district an area most Maconites today would consider to be off the beaten path.

Downtown Macon is full off history, from the railroad to the old mills it’s a place that leaves you in awe. The Guild calls home to an abandoned warehouse near Macon’s Terminal Station. The building is a historic landmark and aside from the dated facade, once you step inside you get a feeling of tranquility. It’s fascinating; the ambience has a sort of je ne sais quoi. Yet another aspect that’s quite crafty is the name itself, Ampersand which if stylized is the “&” character and “Guild” which is defined as an organized group of people who have joined together because they share the same interest.

Ampersand Guild member Nik Nerburn introducing his documentary "In the Shadow of Paul Bunyan" Photo by Donja M. Harper.
Ampersand Guild member Nik Nerburn introducing his documentary “In the Shadow of Paul Bunyan” Photo by Donja M. Harper.

The Ampersand Guild Hall is created by artists for artists, and I had the pleasure of speaking with a few. Daniel Montoule who is an artist and curator of the guild gave me insight on the Guild’s mission and how the artwork is organized. He said, “It is home to over 100 members, ranging from painters, musicians, actors, and photographers.” I also had the pleasure of speaking with Nik Nerburn, who is a budding videographer from Bemidji, Minnesota. He has been living in Georgia for about 3-years now and is in the process of filming a documentary focusing on East Macon’s Mill Hill area. I found the idea quite interesting being that when I first came to Macon. I resided in one of the homes on Schell Ave.

Nerburn premiered a short documentary titled, “In the Shadow of Paul Bunyan” which happen to expound upon the tall tale that encapsulates his hometown of Bemidji, Minn. Nerburn hopes to have one of his films featured during Macon’s annual Film Festival. It’s no secret that Macon is deeply rooted in artistry with its musical background and various authors. Nerburn said, “If you come to Macon with a preconception of what it is, you will find something to confirm that.” I found the statement very suitable from an artist standpoint.

Ampersand Guild features artwork from resident artists. Photo by Donja M. Harper.
Ampersand Guild features artwork from resident artists. Photo by Donja M. Harper.

The Ampersand Guild Hall is an artsy environment that caters to the creative enthusiast and those who seek refuge from the hustle and bustle or everyday life. Be sure to take time out and visit if you are in downtown Macon, Ga. It is open from 9am-9pm Tuesday-Saturday and 1pm-9pm Sunday and closed Monday.

www.ampersandguild.com / facebook.com/ampersandguild

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Published by Don Harper

Don Harper's passion for writing came at an early age. As a second grader, he wrote his first short story, one about his father, a fireman. His teacher typed and edited it, and made the story into a hardbound book. This cherished memory inspired this now 35 year from Milledgeville to create. He is also fascinated by the culture of hip-hop. He began to write poetry and lyrics, and by the time I was in high school had joined a music group who performed live shows and even opened up for some major artists. His current endeavors include working on a trilogy of short stories and finishing his studies at Middle Georgia State University. He is completing his Bachelor of Arts, majoring in New Media and Communication. He hopes to one day acquire a position as a writer for a major network and to also have penned a best-selling novel.