ABSOLUTE | MUSE

TUTT STR EET GALLERY THERE WAS ALWAYS ART IN MY LIFE

In the Okanagan we are lucky enough to have roots that run deep into the art world. And, we are also lucky enough to have more than just artists here. There are dozen of specialized art galleries that are maintained and operated by delightful gallery owners. Now, people tend to be attracted to certain galleries that have certain kinds of art or a specific artist that is featured, or jewelry that they like or sculptures that make them go hmmm… As you can see there are all sorts of things that are encompassed in this broad term that we call “art”!

One of the most special galleries in the Okanagan is located in the heart of Pandosy Village in Kelowna. It is called Tutt Street Gallery and it is a wonderful place to get lost for a few minutes and really appreciate some amazing art.

Martina Kral had a grandfather that painted landscapes and still life pieces in the Czech Republic. Learning about art at such a young age really sparked her passion. She remembers staring at his work in complete wonderment. Although none of those painting skills were passed down to her, she still committed herself to a lifetime of art. Martina bought her first piece of original art when she was in her teens, and has continued to, to this very day. When asked if she was an artist, she responded with “No, I am not an artist. I cannot draw a stick man. I leave all that up to the professionals!” Becoming the owner of the gallery was just a matter of being in the right place at the right time and knowing the right people. She has been at the helm for ten years now and looks forward to another ten years to follow!

Martina confides in us that she enjoys the time that she spends at the gallery. “The gallery has a warm and homey feel to it. It is not pretentious, but welcoming.” For many people that walk through those doors they are excited to meet Lily the gallery dog, who is always there to greet you and offer up a toy to play with.

The art world is ever changing and new trends are always emerging. Every artist has their own unique style and is constantly trying to perfect their craft. Martina goes on to say that whether you like something more modern or something that tends to be more classic there really is something out there for everyone.

When discussing art lovers, art collectors and buying art, Martina lends her thoughts. “Very few people who have art collections created them overnight. Usually it is achieved over years or even decades. Most galleries, including mine, offer payment options. I want you to own the piece you fell in love with. I have a number of regular art lovers who make payments and buy a piece a year or every couple of years. The important thing to remember is that artists set their prices based on their renown, their experience and their breadth of exposure. There are some fabulous emerging artists that have very affordable price points. One of the things I tell my clients is that you will never regret the one you buy but you will always regret the one you left behind.”

It is no secret that the internet has changed the way that people buy everything, and that includes art. When it comes to galleries and pieces of art, nothing replaces seeing something with your eyes and holding it in your own hands. “You cannot capture the essence of a painting from a picture on your phone or computer…” As a result, Martina says that the internet has likely opened up a few doors for

Tutt Street Gallery. People research and pin-point specifically what they like and then come in to see what it actually looks like. Getting an idea of exactly how big something is can only be accomplished in real life.

There is an on-going discussion regarding whether or not the perfect artist exists. Of course art is subjective so perfection to one person is a train wreck to someone else. Martina has an interesting take on the topic when she was asked if she represents “the perfect artist”? “I like to think that all my artists are perfect! Every one of them are unique. From the way they paint or sculpt to their subject matter, to their personalities. I always assume my artists would not put work out into the world that isn’t perfect in their eyes!

Because there is only so much wall space at Tutt Street Gallery, they can’t represent and display everyone. It is almost a daily occurrence that an artist walks though the doors hoping to get their chance the hang up their art on these special walls. Martina says that she is always open to new works that she feels would “fit” with her current artists and be appreciated by her clients.

With such great artists as Aleksandra, Rod Charlesworth, Maya Eventov, David Graff, H.E. Kuckein, Min Ma, Claude Tremblay and a whole host of others are generously on display.

Even if you are not an art lover, Tutt Street Gallery will have something that catches your eye and makes you think or even makes you smile, takes you somewhere to another place in time, reminds you of a childhood memory or triggers your passion for art that maybe you didn’t know you even had. And of course, for the art lovers out there, come back to Tutt Street Gallery because it is likely that you have already been there!