SUMMER 2014
ROYO: Poemas
Gallery Art Scene MEET THE MASTERS
| Documenting Travel | THROUGH ART
Island Life: DISCOVERING O’AHU
FESTIVAL of ARTS
c a l i f o r n i a ’s p r e m i e r f i n e a r t s h o w
A RT HAPPENS HERE 140 fine artists live music workshops special events + more!
July 6-August 30 visit website for hours and events
LagunaFestivalofArts.com Artist Marcus Thesing / Photograph by Charley Akers Photo
F E S T I VA L
OF
ARTS
AND
PAGEANT
OF
THE
MASTERS
O N LY
IN
LAGUNA
BEACH
PAGEANT of the MASTERS
where art comes to life right before your eyes!
LIFE I M I TAT E S A RT A unique theatrical performance Shows nightly 8:30 p.m.
July 9-August 30
Advance Tickets $15- $220 For info call 800.487.3378
PageantTickets.com Detail of Madame X by John Singer Sargent © Metropolitan Museum of Art
CONTENTS
highlights
6 28 30
19TH ANNUAL ANNIVERSARY SHOW Join in the art of discovery with EC Gallery’s annual anniversary celebration. ISLAND LIFE: DISCOVERING O’AHU Whether you are looking for leisure or adventure, the popular island destination of O’ahu has something for everyone! DOCUMENTING TRAVEL THROUGH ART Find out how to combine your favorite passions of travel and art in one creative journey.
departments 6 Happenings 12 Artist Feature 15 Behind the Curtain 22 Collectors Profile 26 Perfect Palette 28 Travel 32 Collectors Profile 35 Gallery Scene
ON THE COVER Master Artist Royo draws inspiration for his impressionist oil paintings from the vivid colors of the Mediterranean.
Mantón Blanco Royo Original Oil on Canvas 24” x 15”
to our readers “Everything in our present existence is made up of energy.” For the artist, energy is harnessed in thought and manifested into the physical realm by creative mastery. This is what we as collectors come to appreciate as art. Because energy is constantly in motion, so the artist is evolving in their creation. This year, ECG celebrates 19 years bringing “the art of discovery” to the world. Celebrating along with us are artists Walfrido Garcia and Steve Barton. In August the energy shifts and translates into a sensual figurative collection by master artist Henry Asencio. Be sure to check out “What’s New” because there are amazing creations being unveiled in this feature. ECG offers many services to support your desire to surround yourself with art. Call on us for all your art needs from in-home consultation, art curation, installation, replacement value for insurance purposes, custom framing and many more! Make it an inspiring, energy-filled summer!
MAG AZ INE FO R T H E E XC LU SI V E C O L L E C TO R
1925 Euclid Avenue San Diego, CA 92105 619-858-3574 PUBLISHER EC Galleries www.ecgallery.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ruth-Ann Thorn EDITORIAL DIRECTOR & SENIOR WRITER Christine Nemeth CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rachel Legnitto Ellen Wright COPY EDITOR Bill Abrams PHOTO EDITOR Jens Rossen Feil ART DIRECTOR & GRAPHIC DESIGN Monica Preston
Editor-In-Chief SUBSCRIPTIONS Please send email request to offtheeaselmag@ecgallery.com to receive our next issue. LETTERS Send letters to Off the Easel Magazine, 1925 Euclid Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92105 (Attention: Ruth-Ann Thorn), or via email to: offtheeaselmag@ecgallery.com. Please include your name, mailing address, email address and phone number. Published letters may be edited for length and clarity and may be used in future Off the Easel issues.
The next big thing in travel arrives this summer‌
Introducing Travelboxe – the friend-to-friend recommendation network that makes it easy to get travel advice from the people you trust the most.
Sign up today at Travelboxe.com and be one of the first to receive exclusive access to our network.
Discover and share the best tips for galleries, resorts, restaurants and must dos for your favorite cities in the world.
H A P P E N I Annual NGS 19 Anniversary Show th
July 2014
EC Seaport Village Gallery • RSVP to pr@ecgallery.com • (800) 599-7111
6
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
E
xclusive Collections is proud to kick off summer with our 19th Annual Anniversary Show featuring two great artists, Walfrido Garcia and Steve Barton. This infamous duo has shared their common love for the sea and sky, the tranquil beauty of nature, and now they are going to share it with San Diego at Exclusive Collections Seaport Village Gallery with a show expected to be as alive as the nature around us. In the words of Marc Chagall, “Great art picks up where nature ends.” With Garcia and Barton showing off their talents and a Hawaiian theme including leis, food and traditional Hawaiian entertainment, this is a must-do event to put on your calendar. What better way to start the summer than with a show focusing on Garcia and Barton’s ocean and beach themes? Garcia, who is best known for his traditional seascapes, Koa wood collection and “fire and fantasy” series, has the ability to turn natural landscapes into what he calls “Romantic Realism.” He begins by painting the nature in front of him, layer by layer adding a breathtaking beauty that transports the viewer into the scene. You can almost feel the breeze in the texture of brushstrokes. Barton, too, instills his work with motion and a tranquil feeling. Known for its vibrant colors, long brushstrokes and unique wavy frames, Barton’s work has a three-dimensional quality developed by the artist and first displayed many years ago at Exclusive Collections. Often including a dwelling such as a cottage, cabin or villa, Barton’s coastal settings invite the viewer in to share in the tranquility. When these two powerhouse artists come together, great art is guaranteed, as is an amazing experience for all there to witness it. This year’s show may even feature some live collaboration, as the two men have been known to collaborate on paintings in the past. With four galleries in two states, Exclusive Collections has come a long way in its 19 years, but it has never wavered in its spirit of community and family closeness derived from its Hawaiian origins. Gallery owner, RuthAnn Thorn, discovered her calling with her first gallery
EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
“Black Diamonds”, Steve Barton Fine Art Limited Edition, 40” x 30”
position on O’ahu. “The Aloha spirit encompasses the beauty of the arts and humanity,” she explains. “My hope was to take this philosophy to the mainland and open a gallery filled with beauty and inspiration.” Thorn credits Exclusive Collections’ success to three major factors: the company culture, the artists and the collectors. EC works hard to ensure the art it curates appeals to its collectors’ refined tastes. Still, it is a labor of love, and with masters including Asencio, Michael Flohr, Daniel Ryan, Gloria Lee, Michael Summers, Royo, Daniel Merriam, Steven Quartly, Walfrido Garcia, Steve Barton and many more, the job becomes that much easier.
Please join the EC Galleries family for the 19th Anniversary Show in July and help celebrate how far EC Gallery and its artists have come! To RSVP please contact your fine art consultant or a gallery near you! 7
“Today, women live outside the outdated conceptions of a traditional “female sphere.” Asencio most often paints his figures with an abstract background. He does not define either an external or internal setting, allowing the viewer to interpret the figure from a purely emotional point of view rather than as someone restricted to a specific way of life or being.”
A
“Classic Beauty” Fine Art Limited Edition, 22” x 28”
8
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
HAsencio APPENINGS Classic Beauty
August 2014
EC Seaport Village Gallery • RSVP to pr@ecgallery.com • (800) 599-7111
S
ince the start of his career in 2000, art collectors have felt drawn to Henry Asencio’s masterful oil paintings. Their allure lies within the deep emotional well of the human spirit. Each complex likeness stirs unspoken feelings and awakens dormant hopes in the deceptively simple illusion of the human figure. Asencio’s abstract style translates the abstract ideas of intimacy, hope, desire and spirituality he sees represented in the women he paints. His understanding is strongly influenced by the expressionists and surrealists in their exploitation of accidents and manipulation of organic forms. Asencio molds the oil paint in impulsive swaths like a sculptor shaping clay. He uses various found tools to cut into his existing brushstrokes and agitate the smooth flow of the paintbrush. “I get to be aggressive with application, yet convey a tranquil moment,” Asencio explains. It is what he identifies as the “dichotomy of tenderness and aggression” and what later evolved into his philosophy of “Solace in the midst of Chaos.” In Asencio’s work, realism and impressionism interchange depending on the manner in which the viewer addresses the painting. Asencio adapts unnatural colors that actually adjust in the mind’s eye to convey a natural image. It can take years to fully appreciate and enjoy the subtleties of his technique and the aesthetic depths he reaches using color. The figures maintain realistic aspects, but the process is not meant to result in perfect visual likeness. Rather it is a reflection of feeling, as the artist often finds himself exploring pivotal moments of decisionmaking and self-discovery. Asencio’s new work, Classic Beauty, reaffirms the powerful artistic voice he has developed over the past 14 years. This fine art limited edition sepia painting relies on his foundational skills in drawing. For Asencio, drawing is an essential requirement for any artist, and he demonstrates this with crisp lines that create the central silhouette along the subject’s EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
arms and shoulders. From there, he manipulates the oil paint in varying thicknesses and textures, mimicking light and shadow. Employing only the necessary details, he allows the edges of the image to fade into abstraction. Today, women live outside the outdated conceptions of a traditional “female sphere.” Asencio most often paints his figures with an abstract background. He does not define either an external or internal setting, allowing the viewer to interpret the figure from a purely emotional point of view rather than as someone restricted to a specific way of life or being. Some artists have been criticized for only portraying women living in the home. In Asencio’s works, women are not depicted by occupation, class, or their relationship to men, but by who they decide they are. These compositions, which merge the traditional with the more avant garde, highlight contemporary sensuality. What does elegance and sensuality look like today? Much of Asencio’s paintings have to do with opposition and creating beauty rather than finding it. Men and women have the power to create beauty, just as they have the power to create peace, opportunity and happiness. The control and freedom brought forth in the act of creation is what sets Asencio’s masterpieces apart.
9
HAPPENINGS ROYO
Poemas September 2014 EC Laguna Beach Gallery • RSVP to pr@ecgallery.com • (855) 372-8213
S
heer beauty, gentle movement, and a soothing palette — Royo’s oil paintings unite exemplary passion with elegant portraiture. Reminiscent of the extravagance of the Rococo movement in France infused with intuitive impressionism, Royo’s work is comprised of exquisite detail and texture. Light bounces throughout his compositions, reflecting the stillness of the water, the gentle breeze in the air, and the natural glow of his subjects’ skin. With mere strokes of his paintbrush, Royo invites delight from all the senses, creating texture that makes the viewer want to reach out and touch each piece. Royo is among the few artists today who has found his own voice within his work. Collectors can instantly recognize a “Royo” with merely a glance, regardless of time or place. In this aspect, as well as having grown up in Valencia, Spain, Royo’s career parallels that of other renowned Spanish artists, including Goya, Velázquez, Sorolla and Murillo. It is a tradition in which Royo takes great pride, and his paintings
often show the influence of old masters. His lively impressionist brushstrokes resemble Monet, while his ability to depict detailed portraiture rivals that of Boucher. At the same time, his classic compositions infused with romance re-envision Watteau, while his subjects’ delicate hands and graceful gestures expel movement as if dancers in a Degas. The subtle glances and sweet demeanor of Royo’s female figures make the viewer want to get to know them, to understand them, and part of the warmth surrounding them — a difficult feeling to evoke in two dimensions, yet one at which Royo excels. For the first time ever, Royo’s incomparable works are now on display at Exclusive Collections Laguna Beach Gallery, where his beautiful Mediterranean settings and ambiance fit perfectly with the relaxed beach lifestyle. In addition, Exclusive Collections Galleries is both honored and thrilled to be hosting the master himself for an exhibition this September 19th and 20th. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to meet this beloved contemporary artist, who will be traveling all the way from his home in Valencia for the occasion.
“Dorados” Original Oil on Canvas 15” x 22”
“Piños en la Costa” Original Oil on Canvas 16” x 8”
10
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
11
ARTIST
“In Flight”, Fine Art Limited Edition, 30” x 40”
12
FEATURE
M i c h a e L S u m m e r S
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
P
op Surrealist Michael Summers feeds his inner child through his artwork using mementos from the past. Inspired by imagery and experiences from his childhood, Summers captures the excitement and wonder of youth. “My entire color palette is pretty much based on inspiration from the past such as Pop Art and animated cartoons from the 60s and 70s,” he explains. Summers’ memories of laughing while watching his favorite cartoons give his work an uplifting aspect through his semiotic use of color. It is this whimsical style, juxtaposed with his love of robots, animals, antiques, steampunk, vintage animation and toys, comic books, pulp fiction novels and prized relics of all kinds that bring both Summers and his collectors a continuous sense of joy and adventure. Life becomes more difficult as one grows up. The weight of the world begins to affect even the strongest individuals. Through his bright and colorful paintings, Summers encourages all to nurture and bring out their inner child as he does. For research, he indulges his curiosity at the circus, the zoo, museums, and beaches — pretty much anywhere he can be carefree. In this way, Summers views life almost as a child would, an infinite journey waiting to be explored. He constantly EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
strives to awaken viewers to the world around them, reminding them that it is not one’s age that should determine how one lives life. Things that once brought joy can be rediscovered and bring joy again. Summers’ emphasis on nostalgia is one of the components of his success. He re-envisions the past, combining new and old to make the ordinary extraordinary. He constantly looks back and analyzes memories and significant steps in his career, extracting valuable insight about who he was and who he wants to be. Once a struggling artist, Summers is now a recognized master with collectors around the world. Going beyond what is expected, he recently shared his talent on a broader scale, creating a series of impressive original murals. Surrealism has enabled Summers to transpose his playful spirit seamlessly into his paintings. His compositions are deeply personal, at times reflecting his stance on life in general, instilling much-needed social messages along the way. His naturally upbeat personality is contagious, leaving all who meet him or view his work eager for more. Summers encourages all to live life to the fullest, everyday challenging himself to do the same. 13
W
BEHIND
THE CURTAIN
Meet
hitney Dossey
Working as a fine art framer for almost three years, Whitney Dossey was looking for a position to grow in responsibilities and expertise in her field when she found a home at EC Gallery. As the frame shop manager for EC Gallery, Whitney is in charge of workflow, ordering framing and shipping supplies, and “I frame, frame, frame….”
“My dream days at work are when all the other framers are on some other project, I can turn on Joni Mitchell, close the doors and see how many Gloria Lee paintings I can frame in one day. I like the calm and quiet of making something out of parts and knowing that something now exists that didn’t exist before.” Whitney graduated from San Diego State University with a bachelor’s degree in applied design with an emphasis in ceramics. During her time there she studied under professors Richard Burkett, Joanne Hyakawa and Richard Keely. Her art degree encompassed classes in woodworking, fibers and ceramics. Each of these skills apply directly to her expertise as a custom framer, which requires working with wood and fabrics in every design. “I have a degree in three-dimensional art,” Whitney explains, “and when I look at a blank canvas, nothing comes to me. I love being able to use my three dimensional skill to make two-dimensional art pop!” EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
Growing up, Whitney was the child of artists, surrounded by creative thinkers and doers who gave her the freedom to know that her opinion mattered. Today, the majority of her friends are artists. For her, collecting art is not just about acquiring a painting or a sculpture that has monetary value or fame; her most treasured works of art have been the gifts or commissions that developed over many years of getting to know her artist friends. Over time, her love for the artwork itself intermingles with her affiliation for the artist and his or her philosophy. “What I like most about EC culture would definitely be the family aspect. At the main office, we eat lunch together, family style. It’s a very warm and inviting place to work.” Being around art every day allows her to live in her element. “I’m really enjoying the pen and ink Daniel Ryan pieces that have been coming in lately,” says Dossey. “The clean lines and fabulous stippling work are somehow very calming; something about them just makes me stop and inhale.” These paintings and so many other significant works of art are under her care every day. She acknowledges the thrill of seeing these masterpieces at her fingertips — taking responsibility for them and making them look their very best. “I got to frame a Chagall today! My job is the best.” 15
ARTIST
FEATURE
RENZO A
s the father of “Lucid Realism”, Renzo has invented an artistic style that encourages the viewer to perceive the cohesion between the waking and dreaming states. Renzo’s painting style draws heavily on his experiences with the indigenous cultures of Australia, Costa Rica and Mexico, emulating the collective knowledge of each culture as represented through their clothing, art, tools and symbols. Imagery such as masks, rope, stone, trees and birds have been used throughout the ages to identify states of being and common human emotion. These tactile qualities appeal to the senses, allowing the viewer to feel themselves a part of the ongoing narrative. While Renzo pulls from ancient sources, his work remains in the present. In fact, Renzo’s style conveys the commonality of timeless human experience through his expressionism. Renzo’s paintings express and communicate his observations of what he believes to be the basic qualities that separate humanity from the inanimate objects that surround it while maintaining their interconnectivity. “All things, whether organic or not, animate or inanimate, are interconnected,” claims Renzo. The artist demonstrates this in each painting, showing how human beings use inanimate objects to tell their stories and illustrate abstract ideas. This “Lucid Realism” that he has created gives the viewer insight into the way reality is not only processed, but communicated with others. His practice of what has been described as “artistic alchemy” transforms mere physical image into a deeper artistic philosophy. What begins as painting technique and an abstract idea comes together to generate profound thought. Texture on canvas alludes to the ancient and fundamental roots of his inspiration. His use of brush strokes, 16
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
and habit of scratching at the surface of the canvas produce a primal nature to these imaginary vehicles. Renzo’s color palette recalls the elements of earth and nature, extracting metal and organic colors. Iron oxide pigments such as sanguine and sienna provide clay-like, earthy red and brown tones. Organic pigments like gamboge, a color used to dye Buddhist monks’ robes, provide an illuminating layer that allows for underpainted layers to show through. Colors reminiscent of copper pigments like viridian and paris green maintain neutral qualities but stand out in bright color against the others. Mixing the organic with the inorganic thus permeates the very substance of his
paintings and shows how the two are interconnected. Renzo’s painted images are opaque with transparent overlays to form composites, ranging from the figurative to abstract expressionism. He always uses highly fluid paints, because of his connection with their unique qualities on the canvas. Building layer upon layer in a process of construction and illustrated depth, Renzo depicts metaphors and variables on relationships, spirituality, intent, and even tribal similes. Unlike many artists of the day, Renzo’s art is created with a fully developed and distinct voice. His message and his execution speak together with a united intention, which truly make him the artist that he is today.
Far Left, Top: “7 Ravens” Original Mixed Media on Canvas 28” x 36” Far Left, Bottom: “Governing” Original Mixed Media on Canvas 40” x 32”
“I saw what I Dreamed and the Pigment Ran.” — Renzo “Similar Direction” Original Mixed Media on Canvas 24” x 20”
EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
17
WHAT’S N “The Strategist” Daniel Merriam Fine Art Limited Edition Size: 24” x 36” Price: $2800 unframed
“Roses” Jacarte Optic Crystal Vase Size: 4.5” x 10” Price: $385
“Spring Water Color, Small” David Wight Glass Sculpture Size: 9” x 8” x 9” Price: $1380
18
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
EW
We have new artwork coming into our galleries on a weekly basis. Please verify all prices with your art consultant. If you would like more information on these works, visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ecgalleries
“Orchid Splendor” Joseph Quillan Bronze Sculpture Size: 4” x 2.25” x 2.25” Price: $190
“Romance in the Rain” Michael Flohr Fine Art Limited Edition Size: 40” x 30” Price: $1600 unframed
“Life Creation” Ira Reines Bronze Sculpture Size: 38” x 24 x 14” Price: $12,800
EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
19
SEAPORT DISTRICT San Diego history is steeped in military and naval tradition so it’s no surprise that one of its newest shopping destinations is as well. The Headquarters, which opened last November, served as the San Diego Police Department’s headquarters for close to 50 years. The upscale shopping destination is now home to 13 stores and nine restaurants within walking distance of its sister property, Seaport Village.
O
riginally built in 1939 by architects Alberto Treganza and Edward and Charles Quayle, the building employs a Spanish mission style that promotes circulation and social interaction. Coronado residents were granted some input in the design since they had views of the old Headquarters from across the bay. The Headquarters, which has been added to the National Register of Historic Places, was the first police facility in the world to incorporate all police operations under one roof, including a jail, five courthouses, an indoor shooting range and a maintenance garage. At one point, there was also a bowling alley on the ground floor of the building’s three-story gym. During World War II, the tower on Harbor Drive was a post where San Diego police officers watched for enemy aircraft. It also served as an espionage command center during that same time period. The building’s heritage is honored throughout, but it is most apparent at The San Diego Police Department Exhibit located in the rear of the courtyard. The old jail cells are showcased near the restrooms, where visitors can see the last remnants of cells that once housed 274 inmates. It is difficult to imagine how such a beautiful place was once a home for San Diego felons.
20
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
The San Diego Police Department left the building in 1987 because the force had outgrown the location and raised the funds to move to a city block downtown. In its place, nine eateries now cater to the eclectic mix of San Diegan taste buds. Many offer views of the harbor, as well as outdoor seating, where visitors can enjoy San Diego’s eternal summer weather. The restaurants include Eddie V’s, Puesto, Season’s 52, and Pizzeria Mozza. The Headquarters is also planning summer events “to accommodate the influx of visitors,” says Megan Madrigal, Marketing Director for both the Headquarters and Seaport Village. Cook for a Cause on July 19 will showcase eight top San Diego chefs competing for the title of best chef. “We will be a destination you won’t want to miss,” says Madrigal of the event, the proceeds of which will benefit Promise2Kids. The Headquarters is located just a stone’s throw from beautiful Seaport Village. With more than 50 shops and 17 eateries, Seaport Village’s unique waterfront location makes it one of the most beautiful shopping destinations in all of San Diego, offering fun and entertainment for the whole family. Try the carousel, which is only $2.00 per ride and features 54 animal figures hand-carved in 1895. Next to the carousel is where balloon artist, David Gonsalves, practices his art, creating more than 75 different balloon figures. Face painters and caricature artists can also be found throughout the grounds. Exclusive Collections Seaport Village Gallery faces the bay, offering tranquil views while allowing the sunlight to pour through, showcasing the paintings, sculptures and glasswork within. Indeed, possibly because of the location, the artists themselves make every opportunity to visit, hosting monthly exhibitions open to the public. These shows give collectors and aficionados the opportunity to meet with the artists in person and learn more about their techniques and process. During the summer, Seaport Village is also home to a wide array of live music. Jazz, flamenco, and other Latin American music can be heard daily in the food court from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. The property also includes four fine dining options right on the waterfront, making it a prime choice for either a romantic getaway or special celebration. Seaport Village is a car-free environment, where four miles of winding paths make their way through the scenery and shops. The cobblestone paths are excellent for dog walking, biking, or just strolling, while the lush foliage, fountains, and ponds make a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown. The combined history and beauty of destinations like Seaport Village and the Headquarters is transforming San Diego’s waterfront into a lively retreat for both residents and visitors alike. This summer, be sure to take some time to explore this beautiful and vibrant area.
EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
21
COLLECTOR PROFILE
Meet
V
anessa Bruer
I am originally from Kirkwood, Missouri, and I had a fairly typical American upbringing. Like any other kid in the Midwest, I participated in dance and theater and all the other things kids and young adults typically get themselves into. Being from the Midwest, I was never really exposed to cultural experiences involving art. I moved to Las Vegas as a young adult about 13 years ago and my world began to change as I became more accustomed to some of the finer things in life — fine wine and dining among them. In 2005 I married the love of my life. He was the owner of a prestigious five-star/five-diamond restaurant and his knowledge of and passion for the culinary arts was inspiring. We often found ourselves in the company of great chefs and winemakers in beautifully appointed settings. We took picturesque trips to Napa Valley and many times got to experience a behind-the-scenes look into the craft of winemaking. Life was beautiful and then tragically, last spring, my husband of 8 years unexpectedly and suddenly passed. For several months I dealt with uncontrollable grief. No matter what I tried, nothing seemed to bring relief from losing my best friend and partner. No amount of counseling, going out with friends, or good wine could take away the pain...until one day, the day I walked into Exclusive Collections. I remember looking around and I was immediately drawn in by the subject matter of Christopher M., specifically The Perfect Pairing. In an instant, something shifted. As I stared at the work, it reminded me of my husband and this overwhelming sense of peace and understanding came over me. Needless to say, I bought it, and there has not been a day since that I have not taken a few minutes to admire and reflect on what it means for me. 22
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
COLLECTOR PROFILE Whenever I acquire a new work, it is always an exciting process. I mainly look for a special feeling it produces within me. Beyond its physical aesthetics, I consider whether it evokes an emotion that connects me to some memory or story. Since August of last year, I have collected Michael Summers, Merriam, Asencio and now Royo. Each one holds special significance for me and I collect them for different reasons — although I have to admit, with regard to my favorite artist, Michael Summers, beyond the playful antics of the tigers in Color Play that remind me of my cats, it is his colors that really draw me. They are simply fun to look at.
Above: “Changing Spots”, Michael Summers Fine Art Open Edition, 10” x 10” Left, Bottom: “The Perfect Pairing”, Christopher M. Fine Art Limited Edition, 14” x 18”
“Art collecting has truly transformed my reality. I can’t believe it took all these years to discover the importance and meaning it could have. I wish I had known earlier the joys of collecting art.” As you can imagine, I was shocked that something as simple as work of art could produce such a powerful connection, transformation and healing. As I continued to visit the gallery, I began spending more and more time taking in the works of the other artists. Slowly, I began to understand that I see art more through my heart than through my eyes. There is so much there to unveil. I realize the art understands me and where I am. For example, when I first saw my most recent Asencio, Goddess, I gasped. She immediately told me just to breathe. Finding this work of art was pivotal for me as I discovered it on the eve of my husband’s death. EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
Art collecting has truly transformed my reality. I can’t believe it took all these years to discover the importance and meaning it could have. I wish I had known earlier the joys of collecting art. One of the most interesting things I enjoy about collecting is the experience of meeting and spending time with the artists. Whenever I watch Summers paint, I realize that each stroke becomes a chord in a symphony and I am privileged not only to witness its creation, I have the opportunity to take it home and make it part of my legacy. One of the other things I enjoy about collecting is giving artwork as a gift. When Michael Summers’ Changing Spots came out, I thought of my friend Holly. She was so instrumental in providing support after the initial wave of condolences at the time of my husband’s death. Intuitively, she was the one who seemed to understand where I was. She didn’t overextend herself or push herself on me. She simply let me know “she was right there, only a phone call away.” It was that little voice — represented by the baby leopard in the painting — that I had in the back of my mind. Then when the time came for me to seek additional support from friends, Holly was again there for me in a big way. Now she was the bigger leopard, sheltering me with unconditional love as I was “changing my spots,” going through a particularly difficult phase in the grieving process. As I look around my home and see the works I have acquired so far, it makes me feel I have paved my walls with my own yellow brick road. My memories and stories have become immortalized through the talent of master artists I am privileged to support. I truly feel I have been perfectly paired with a new lifestyle that celebrates the memories I have, the creation of new ones, and all the people and things I love so much about life. 23
& beyond
Subscribe Today www.ranchandcoast.com/subscribe
ARTIST E N AN
E Y N
FEATURE
A
nne Nye’s art is made up of pieces—pieces of glass, pieces of foil and, in a way, pieces of herself. Nye layers finely-crushed transparent and opaque glass, blending them together in the kiln to produce an ethereal portrait of nature. “As I create, I find myself reopening an old awareness deeply rooted in childhood but nearly buried by our busy technological world. My hope is that this work might cause the observer to see nature and glass in a new way,” Nye says, speaking of her pieces, which invite viewers to experience them not only through sight, but touch as well. Nye grew up in the Pacific Northwest and in addition to her travels as an adult, she takes great inspiration from her memories of nature as a child. “Each visual memory formed a wonderful backdrop for my childhood and my art,” she says, fondly recalling the tall cottonwoods near her grandparents’ home in southern Idaho and the aspens of Sun Valley. At first glance, her glass fusions appear to be paintings. It is only on closer inspection the layers reveal themselves, something that can be attributed to Nye’s background as a painter. Nye writes on her blog that in art school she was taught to shy away from beauty and to paint ugliness. She remembers a professor calling one of her early works “utesy cutesy” and, as a result, she immediately conformed to the curriculum. After earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts in California, Nye began her career as a full-time painter in a tourist town in Idaho. She painted as she was taught and found neither success nor happiness. Later she embarked on a graphic design career and admits she overcame some obstacles along the way. Growing and altering her process, however, taught Nye to develop a distinct artistic voice. After many years, she committed to the fused glass medium, and now decades after finishing school she is a much soughtEXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
“Four Seasons Stix” Fused Glass 20” x 5” each
after artist and instructor. Nye teaches glass technique throughout the country and also continues her own learning process, having recently studied under Narcissus Quagliata and Ted Sawyer. “People need beauty and artists must find a way to present beauty that is good art. It must come from a rich inner life that is nourished with beautiful art, music and words,” Nye writes on her blog. “That is one of my main goals...to create with my heart.” Nye works out of her studio in Omaha, Nebraska, alongside her husband Richard, who helps engineer the wall mountings. Her most recent work, Four Seasons Wall Stix, is a polyptych composed of four distinct landscapes depicting the changing seasons. Each is available for individual sale. 25
P E R F E C T PA L E T T E
Wine
Hours of Operation: Tasting Room Open Daily: 11:00 am – 6:00pm Reservations recommended www.francisfordcoppolawinery.com
Francis Ford Coppola Winery 300 Via Archimedes Geyserville, CA 95441 (707) 857-1400
Francis Ford Coppola Winery The Coppola family’s vision for a winery in Sonoma began in 2006 when together they purchased the historic Château Souverain property. Francis Coppola’s dream of transforming the Francis Ford Coppola Winery into “a wine wonderland” was realized in 2010 with the help of longtime friend and Academy Award-winning production designer Dean Tavoularis. Tavoularis redesigned the property into a family-style resort with two wine tasting bars, two restaurants, a full bar, a swimming pool, a movie gallery, a performing arts pavilion, and a park area with game tables and bocce courts. “[It’s] a place to celebrate the love of life,” explains Coppola. Still, while the winery is designed with the entire family in mind, the main focus remains the production of its top-quality wines. Director of Winemaking and General Manager Corey Beck leads the on-site production of more than 40 wines, all of which are available for tasting and purchase. Beck has his own family legacy in viticulture, learning his craft from his grandfather who was the vineyard manager for Napa Valley’s renowned Chateau Montelena. Beck’s contributions have revitalized the property and improved the bottling line and winemaking facility, expanding the winery’s portfolio to what it is today. Francis Ford Coppola Winery currently offers
26
eleven distinct brands: Francis Coppola Reserve, Archimedes, Eleanor, Director’s Cut, Director’s, Diamond Collection, Votre Santé, Rosso & Bianco, Sofia, Su Yuen and the new addition of the Gia by Gia Coppola line. Family and tradition are important to the Coppolas, something reflected not only in the design of the winery but their wines themselves. A favorite among collectors, Archimedes, named for Coppola’s “Uncle Archie,” is a complex and rich Cabernet Sauvignon with an alluring spice quality and overtones of black cherries and ripe red plums. Delicately designed, Votre Santé honors Coppola’s paternal grandmother who always toasted “À votre santé” (“To your health”) at family gatherings. Offering Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and the Chateau Red, Votre Santé wines are crafted in the French tradition using Dijon clones and Burgundian winemaking techniques, making them light and delectable on the palate. Rosso & Bianco wines are crafted with the philosophy of wine for everyday life. The Coppolas believe wine is a fundamental component of family gatherings, and treating all who visit as family, it was Francis Coppola’s personal request that this particular brand always be offered complimentary to guests of the winery.
OFF THEFord EASELCoppola MAGAZINEWinery – SPRING 2014 Photo Credits: Francis
& Dine Todd English’s OLIVES Bellagio Las Vegas 3600 S. Las Vegas Boulevard Las Vegas, NV 89109 (702) 693-7223
P E R F E C T PA L E T T E
Hours of Operation: Lunch: 11:00am – 2:45 p.m. Bar Menu: 3:00pm – 5:00pm Dinner: 5:00pm – 10:30pm www.bellagio.com/restaurants/olives.aspx
Todd English’s OLIVES Olives, the first restaurant of respected restaurateur and American chef Todd English, originally opened in Charlestown, Mass., in 1989 and was the foundation on which he built his impressive career. Serving an innovative menu of interpretive Mediterranean, Olives has received numerous accolades and been continuously praised by publications including Boston Magazine, Gourmet Magazine, Nation’s Restaurant News and many others. Today, Olives is recognized as one of the nation’s prestigious dining experiences, having expanded to Las Vegas, New York, Washington D.C., and Aspen. English’s passion for cooking began at the young age of 15 when he first entered a professional kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, English refined his skills, first under Jean Jacques Rachou at New York’s La Cote Basque, then under prominent chefs at Dal Pescatore in Canneto sull’Oglio and Paraccuchi in Locando D’Angello, both in Italy. At 25, English was asked to be executive chef of the awardwinning Northern Italian restaurant Michela’s in Cambridge, Mass, where he stayed for three years, earning credibility from culinary peers, the press and the public. In 2001, English was awarded Bon Appetit’s Restaurateur of the Year, and through his talent, ambition and hard work, he now owns and operates 17 award-winning restaurants across the country. English’s Olives at the Bellagio in Las Vegas is an experience all its own. Designed by Jeffrey Beers, the restaurant’s rich dark woods, distressed leather and warm golden hues create an intimate setting, adding a new dimension to the exuberant lifestyle of The Strip. Guests enjoy impeccable Mediterranean-inspired cuisine spearheaded by executive chef Brad Skougard. The menu encompasses high-quality seafood, house-made pastas, steaks, rotisserie dishes and brick oven pizzas, as well as a list of fine wines from around the world. The restaurant’s outdoor patio is set against the backdrop of the hotel’s well-known Lake Bellagio, providing the unique opportunity to satisfy one’s cravings while simultaneously enjoying front row seats to the fountain show. There, visitors can indulge their curiosity with a favored dish of grilled squid and octopus over a vinaigrette of chickpeas, tomatoes, toasted garlic and parsley or try the flavorsome flatbreads for which Olives is renowned. EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
Photo Credits: Todd English’s OLIVES
27
. O ahu TRAVEL
Island Life:
O ahu Yearning for paradise? Consider O’ahu, the heart of the Hawaiian islands, where you can immerse yourself in clear blue waters, history, culture and breathtaking views!
Ala Moana Center As the world’s largest open-air shopping center, the Ala Moana Center is truly a shopper’s paradise in paradise. Conveniently located in Honolulu, only a few short minutes from Waikiki, the Center features the widest array of merchandise in Hawaii with more than 290 shops and restaurants. Louis Vuitton, Harry Winston, Dior and Bvlgari are just a few of the high fashion luxury brands that make the Center a premier shopping destination for both international guests and locals alike. The Center also features a collection of Hawaiibased stores with authentic merchandise where you can pick up a little something to remind you of your time in paradise! Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve resides east of Waikiki on the southern tip of O’ahu. The
28
remnants of a volcanic crater that likely flooded from erosion, this shallow cove with its calm waters and abundance of coral and marine life is the perfect spot for snorkeling. Open daily except for Tuesday to allow the fish a day undisturbed, Hanauma Bay stresses preservation above all else. Visitors are required to watch a short film about the restoration of the cove, the sea creatures that inhabit it, and the regulations all who enter must follow. Guests are limited daily based on ticket sales and parking lot capacity, encouraging many to get there early. Iolani Palace Built in 1882 by the last Hawaiian king, King David Kalakaua, the Iolani Palace is the only royal palace on U.S. soil. It was constructed with the most modern amenities of the time, including indoor plumbing, electricity and a telephone. The Palace not only served as the residence for King Kalakaua
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
TRAVEL
and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, but also as a center of social life for the Hawaiian kingdom. After the monarchy was overthrown, the palace was used and abused for many years before it underwent extensive renovations, reopening as a museum in 1978. Today, the Palace still fosters culture and the arts and remains an important part of Hawaiian history. Docent-guided tours are available with advanced reservations and a self-led audio tour is also offered. Diamond Head Just beyond Waikiki to the southeast stands the magnificent Diamond Head, the most famous volcanic crater in the world. It once served as a strategic military lookout — the edge of the crater providing both concealment and protection. Remnants of Fort Ruger still remain, including a tunnel that passes through the crater wall, offering easier access. The steep trail to the summit rewards
EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
hikers with unparalleled views of the shoreline all the way from Koko Head to Wai’anae. Pearl Harbor Pay homage to a pivotal moment in America’s history, remembering Japan’s devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941. The largest natural harbor in Hawaii, Pearl Harbor is the only naval base in the United States designated as a National Historical Landmark. Tour battleships and submarines that played an integral role in the event, including the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, the Pacific Aviation Museum, and the USS Oklahoma Memorial. Learn about this important part of American history and remember the more than 2,000 serviceman who gave their lives that terrible day.
29
EXPERTS
MEET THE
Sandi Cottrell How and when did you get your start in the art business? What is your position today? Can you give us a brief overview of how you got there? I’ve been an event producer since the age of 19 (let’s just say that was quite a while ago). I created events mainly for corporate clients, transforming hotel ballrooms into elaborate environments and producing food and beverage, entertainment/lighting and effects to deliver a theatrical production to the audience. Having always been an artist at heart, this work provided a tremendously creative outlet. I sold my interests in the event planning firm to my partners in the late 90s.
30
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
In the early 2000s, the team that had been managing ArtWalk was looking for someone to take over management of what was then a 20-year-old festival. I had been looking for my next big project and jumped at the opportunity. I always loved this event and I had always had the desire to manage a large public event — a new and inviting challenge after all the years of corporate planning. As Managing Director of ArtWalk San Diego, I oversee a small team that produces large events. Our April festival attracts more than 100,000 attendees to San Diego’s Little Italy each year. Our August festival has also become a premier showcase for artists from all over the United States and Mexico. Our staff works closely with artists, event suppliers, the city and our PR team who help market the events. These events take enormous planning. This year, we deployed 250 people for the April event alone. Why do you think that art is an essential part of our lives? Why is it important to you personally? Art is what makes us human. It elevates our existence to something more meaningful. It’s self-expression, it’s an emotional connection with the artist and subject matter. I fall in love with pieces of art every day…and I’ve collected some pieces that I treasure. One of the most wonderful aspects of owning original artwork is learning about the artist and what inspired them to create the piece, and having that personal connection each time I look at the piece. Making art has been important to me since childhood. My sister, Judy Berman Silbert, and I co-founded an art education program, ArtReach, that brings visual art education to schools with limited resources. The process of creative exploration in childhood is so important and so frequently left out of the elementary curriculum.
“Art is what makes us human. It elevates our existence to something more meaningful. It’s self-expression, it’s an emotional connection with the artist and subject matter.”
What is the most important thing that an art venue needs to be prosperous for its artists? The ability to attract an audience that connects with the type of art being showcased. Marketing to specific demographics is something we focus on. In what ways does the art industry differ from other industries? How does this change your approach to your career? Our festivals address more than just the visual arts. We provide a showcase for dance groups, theatre troupes and art education organizations. The goal is to produce a celebration of art of all kinds and to bring the community together under one umbrella. It’s a very unique way to make a living and a very rewarding one. How has the art industry evolved during the years you have been involved? More people seem to understand the value of owning original artwork, as opposed to buying a poster print at the mall. The proliferation of live art events such as ArtWalk surely has helped facilitate this change in attitude. What advice do you have for professionals in the art industry who want to achieve a bountiful career such as yours? Listen to the artists. Listen to the collectors. Continually strive to improve and recreate your business. Where do you see the future of the art business in the next decade? There seems to be a proliferation of art fairs worldwide. I think we’ll see even more of this. What would be your advice to art enthusiasts who are looking to collect new works at this time? Collect art you love. When a piece of artwork calls to you long after you’ve seen it, heed the call so you don’t regret letting that special piece go home with someone else. EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
31
ART COLLECTING:
Documenting Tr avels Do you consider yourself an art collector? Take a little time to reflect on the works of art you own. Think about where you found them, what struck you about the art, and what made it so important that you brought it home.
P
eople collect art they love. Whether it’s value, nostalgia, experience, intellectual fulfillment, or simply a curiosity for life, art fulfills a need. Art can also reflect other interests, such as travel, allowing you to share your experiences with friends and loved ones. Being a collector is not about having a lot of money to spend on art or having years of art education. It’s about finding a priority for the beauty and talent that art communicates. Collecting art is part of that sense of exploration and discovery we find on our travels. It makes a momentary feeling permanent, available to be relived over and over again. Art mirrors both personal experience and our collective knowledge as a group. Works of art not only reflect beauty; they have something to teach. There is so much to see and do in a new city. It is important to think carefully about what to bring
32
home. Authenticity is a central concept. A work of art from one’s travels becomes that much more significant when it speaks for the craftsmen and artists of that locale. Seek regional treasures whether original paintings, fine art prints, textiles, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, digital media, or photography. Find out the kind of art the city is known—Venetian masks worn during Carnival in Italy, hand-painted tiles in Morocco, Persian rugs, watercolors in Paris. These finds lead to a collection that is eclectic, authentic, and one-of-a-kind. Most collections benefit when the art is drawn from a variety of regions. Annual art fairs are gaining in popularity and have become cultural destinations in themselves — from Art Basel in Switzerland to the European Fine Art Fair in the Netherlands. Go to local galleries to discover what the artists in that area hold most dear. Local art galleries can only
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
afford to represent the most talented, hardworking artists, and are a great resource when it comes to what to see and buy in their vicinity. It can also be helpful to plan out the day and call ahead to make appointments at specific galleries of interest. Look for original and limited edition paintings by local artists. Many artists set up on the street or have their own studio, and though unknown, the affordable works of these artists enable you to bring meaningful memories home with you. If you have the opportunity, meet with the artist in person and spend some time learning about their work. The people you meet in other cities and countries give you new perspective and insight. Their worldview can transform yours, and buying their art is a powerful way to show your appreciation for the exchange of ideas. At first, it may not be obvious where a particular
EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
work will fit in with your collection at home, but unity can be achieved. Having a combination of two- and three-dimensional art provides interest and allows you to collect a wider variety of pieces. Don’t be too concerned about the cohesiveness of the collection as a whole. When you collect something you truly love, your instincts will guide you. Look for ways to present the works together to give your collection greater unity. Use similar framing or group several pieces together by color or size. Collecting is not about finding something to match the sofa or curtains. It’s about telling a story and making life richer through experience, education, and memory. The bottom line is, if you love it, don’t leave it behind. More than likely, you will never find it again. Your travel experiences are one of a kind, and so is the art you find along the way.
33
You Are Invited! SAVE THE DATE
EC Galleries Calendar of Events Call the gallery to RSVP
JULY 19th Annual Anniversary Show with Walfrido and Steve Barton July 11 – 13 EC Seaport Village Gallery (800) 599-7111 19th Annual Anniversary Show with Daniel Merriam July 12 – 13 EC Laguna Beach Gallery (855) 372-8213
AUGUST Asencio Show August 22 – 24 EC Seaport Village Gallery (800) 599-7111
SEPTEMBER Royo Show September 19 – 20 EC Laguna Beach Gallery (855) 372-8213
34
OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – SUMMER 2014
GALLERY
SCENE
Above: Gloria Lee paints live at EC Laguna Beach Gallery for her show, “Eternal Spring”. Right: Daniel Ryan discusses a new work of art with a collector in Laguna Beach for the group show, “Color Blind: A Black and White Collection”.
Above: Artist Michael Summers amazes bystanders at San Diego ArtWalk with a new original painting. Below: Fine art professional Greg Bloch imparts his vast knowledge at the Masters Show in San Diego’s Seaport Village.
EC Gallery’s art collectors enjoyed an elegant evening of food, wine and art for “The Best of the Best” at the Marine Room in La Jolla, CA.
EC Gallery sponsors “Off the Wall”, San Diego’s first graffiti art show featuring artists Codak, Chor Boogie, APEX and Mike “Bam” Tyau. EXCLUSIVE COLLECTIONS GALLERIES
35
Exclusive Collections Gallery 1925 Euclid Avenue San Diego, CA 92105 (619) 858-3574
Enjoy this Issue? Join our mailing list! Please send email request to offtheeaselmag@ecgallery.com to receive future issues. offtheeaselmagazine.com
facebook.com/offtheeaselmag
twitter.com/offtheeaselmag
Gallery and Artist Information Historic Gaslamp Gallery 568 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 (800) 204-0062 (619) 232-1930 Seaport Village Gallery 835 West Harbor Drive, Suite AB San Diego, CA 92101 (800) 599-7111 (619) 238-0320 Laguna Beach Gallery 417 South Coast Highway Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (855) 372-8213 (949) 715-8747 Forum Shops Gallery 3500 South Las Vegas Boulevard Las Vegas, NV 89109 (Under Renovation, Reopening 2015) Beverly Hills Gallery 229 South Beverly Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90212 (New Location)
www.ecgallery.com www.facebook.com/ecgalleries