Detail of “Nature’s Weaving,” a watercolor by Fifth Avenue Art Gallery member and director, Nancy Crawford.

By PAM HARBAUGH

One of the area’s most venerable and long lasting art institutions — the Fifth Avenue Art Gallery — turns 40 this year. Members will celebrate this milestone this evening (Feb. 6, 2015) with quite the soiree.

The event will be held during the Feb. 6 First Friday along Highland Avenue in the Eau Gallie Arts District. That runs 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Participating in the anniversary recognition will be Melbourne Mayor Kathy Meehan, past and current gallery members, and a 7 p.m. champagne toast.

There will be a video presentation with paintings and photos of when the gallery first opened in 1975. More than 100 artists have been members during that time. That membership roll includes some of the area’s best fine artists. By the way, in case you’re wondering why a gallery on Highland Avenue is called the Fifth Avenue Art Gallery — it used to be on Fifth Avenue in Indialantic. When the gallery moved across the river to the mainland, the name was kept.

During the years, the gallery has maintained high standards, both in membership and in gallery appeal to the general public. In addition to showing works by its members who “work” the gallery, the organization also brings in shows on a regular basis. It’s always a nice stop when visiting the EGAD.

The Fifth Avenue Art Gallery is at 1470 Highland Ave., Melbourne (across the street from the Foosaner Art Museum). Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays. Call 321-259-8261 or visit www.FifthAvenueArtGallery.com.