“Your Monday Muse” #17

“The Way Forward” (36”x48”) by Mya Louw

“Her Inner Light” features the art of ten talented women. Some have been best sellers in my past projects, while others are my most recent discoveries. Each artist is at a different stage in her career; all are extraordinary.

This week, I shine a spotlight on the vibrant landscapes of established artist Mya Louw.

Mya Louw, originally from the Netherlands, is known for her large landscapes, slightly abstracted, filled with vivid color and joy, executed in oil, pastel or acrylic either with palette knife or brush. The work portrays the essence of the vast and beautiful terrain of California that she now calls home these last 35 years.

If you haven’t already visited The Gallery at The Urban Hive this month, I invite you to schedule a free private tour of the current exhibit (including two spectacular works by Mya Louw), while it’s on view in Downtown Sacramento. To schedule, send me an email with your availability and I’ll meet you there.

“Your Monday Muse” #16

“Contrast in Bloom” acrylic and pastels on canvas (36”x36”) by Stef Rapoza. A mix of greens and blues dance and become one as lights leap from the water and transcend their environment. There is messiness and beauty. There is dark and light. I am surrounded and changed. Amidst the chaos, serene lilies emerge, their delicate petals floating upward and away. These lilies represent moments of tranquility and calmness, piercing through the turmoil like beacons of hope. They signify our ability to find peace amidst chaos, to embrace the beauty within the darkness. "Contrast in Bloom" invites viewers to confront the intricacies of their own existence—to ponder the juxtaposition of their messy and calm parts, the darkness and light within. It serves as a reminder that within every storm, there is stillness, and within every darkness, there is light.

Spring is blossoming and brings a whole new appreciation for vibrant colors and high-vibe energy. I invite you to enjoy these colorful abstract paintings (and more!) by a few of my favorite local artists, on-view now at The Gallery at The Urban Hive.

Message me to schedule your free gallery tour (with the Exhibit Curator onsite as your guide).

These and other works are also available to be viewed in your home or office; contact me for a free preview of pieces especially chosen for you!

Catherine@CreatrixArtConsulting.com

“Follow the Invisible” intuitive abstract stain painting (36”x36”) acrylic on canvas in bold and bright colors by Roxanne Brodeur Young

“Your Monday Muse” #15

Can I tell you a secret? Only a few people know this, but I have a BIG dream, a vision for the future… my legacy project.

My ultimate goal as an Art Consultant within this community is to create an outdoor sculpture garden where art is seamlessly featured within nature, ideally along the American River.

Inspired by my visits to Boboli Garden, The Chianti Sculpture Park, Palace of Versailles, Filoli, and di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art… I am on a mission to create a destination in my hometown (Sacramento, CA) where immersive art installations seem to rise from the core of Mama Earth inviting visitors to contemplate their own purpose and creativity amidst the flora and fauna of our region.

With this massive undertaking always in mind, I consistently seek new inspiration and collaborative partners who bring my vision to the next level. Recently I connected with two creatives I am excited to share:

The first is Susan Woodford, a metal sculptor whose artwork I am honored to feature in my current gallery exhibit “Her Inner Light” on view (by appointment only) at The Gallery at The Urban Hive through mid-May.

Her figurative sculpture “Vishuddha” depicts a moment when the figure has freed her voice by emotionally healing her throat chakra and releasing the energetic blockage that had kept her feeling unheard, unseen, and undeserving. Regaining voice is a form of regaining self-identity. The Vishuddhi Chakra unleashes an unlimited feeling of euphoria and freedom that allows ability and skill to blossom.

The second is Michael Glassman, an award-winning landscape designer whose work I am honored to feature during my next event at his home later this month.

Michael's work has been featured nationwide. His landscape designs were the subject of nearly fifty Sunset magazine articles and several HGTV specials. He was co-host and designer of Discovery Home Channel's series Garden Police and featured on CNN's Glenn Beck Show

YOU’RE INVITED: “Garden Art Tour” is an artful afternoon in the beautiful backyard of landscape designer Michael Glassman in Davis, CA at 4:15pm on Saturday, April 20th. Enjoy refreshments and a private tour of this inspiring outdoor living space featuring original art from around the world. Space is limited, so register today.

“Your Monday Muse” #14

“Sky Slice” acrylic on canvas (60”x40”) by Jaya King

Saturday’s event was wonderful! In case you didn’t attend, I’ll be sharing artworks from the exhibit over the next few weeks.

For starters, here are a couple of my favorites by artist Jaya King. I specifically chose these two for their expressive quality. “Sky Slice” is a semi-abstract blue and white sky over low horizon line textured ground. “Event Horizon” is a semi-abstract monochromatic sky with dramatic brushstrokes.

“Event Horizon” acrylic on canvas (40”x70”) by Jaya King

Both works are acrylic on canvas painted using palette knives, texture tools, and squeegees. The thick texture is achieved by incorporating heavy gloss gel medium into multiple layers of paint. The surface texture is explored by slicing into the paint, creating dramatic abstract linework. Within the Skyscape series, these two paintings are extraordinary achievements in creating dramatic texture and movement.

Currently, Jaya is continuing her Skyscape collection and building a body of work for her solo show at the Pence Gallery in 2024. She is a Gloria Burt Sacramento Region Art Fellow with artwork in the permanent collections at the Triton Museum of Art in Santa Clara, CA and the Museum of Encaustic Art in Santa Fe, NM.

If you would like to discover how these paintings look in your home or office (and, more importantly, how they feel), I invite you to schedule a time for me to bring them to you for a private viewing: Catherine@CreatrixArtConsulting.com

“Your Monday Muse” #13

“Vitalia” where energy pulsates through every brushstroke, inviting you to dance with life's rhythm; allowing it to ignite your spirit and infuse every moment with vitality; 30”x24” acrylic and alcohol ink on canvas by Liliana Rodriguez (one of ten artists with artwork on view at The Gallery at The Urban Hive).

You’re Invited! Join us for art, wine & appetizers from 6-9pm this Saturday at The Urban Hive on 7th & J Street.

PRESS RELEASE: The Gallery at The Urban Hive presents "Her Inner Light," a captivating group exhibit showcasing the dynamic expressions of women artists, curated by Catherine Harris. This inspiring exhibit will be on display from March 23rd through May 12th at The Urban Hive, 1007 7th Street Sacramento California.

In a world where every woman carries an indomitable spark within her, "Her Inner Light" pays tribute to the resilience, creativity, and vitality that define the female experience. This group show aims to illuminate the myriad expressions of feminine energy, symbolizing the unique journeys of women through the language of art.

"Every woman carries a spark within her. It may burn bright or may grow dim, but can never be extinguished," expresses guest curator Catherine Harris. "Creativity is like a woman’s thermometer, an indicator of her inner well-being. No matter the emotion felt—from fiery rage to joyful love—if it is expressed through creativity, she feels ALIVE! This world needs more women doing what brings them to life."

The exhibition explores the profound connection between women, nature, and creativity, recognizing these as essential elements in reigniting the spark within. From powerful abstract compositions to evocative sculptures, each artwork serves as a testament to the diverse ways women express themselves and find solace, strength, and joy.

"Connecting with nature, creating art, practicing self-love... these are ways women re-ignite their spark. These are the through lines of this exhibit," adds Harris. "Through 'Her Inner Light,' we aim to create a space where the community can celebrate the feminine spirit, foster connection, and support incredible women artists shaping our cultural landscape."

The opening reception on Saturday, March 23rd from 6-9 pm promises to be a unique and inspiring experience, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of feminine creativity. Guests will have the opportunity to engage with the women artists, gaining insights into their artistic processes and the stories that fuel their work.

Exhibition Details:

● Title: Her Inner Light

● Dates: March 23rd to May 12th

● Opening Reception: March 23rd, 6-9pm

● Venue: The Gallery at The Urban Hive, 1007 7th Street Sacramento CA

● Admission: Reception is Free and open to the public.

● Private tours by appointment with guest curator Catherine Harris

catherine@creatrixartconsulting.com

“Your Monday Muse” #12

Calling all my art lovers, art makers and art collectors...

I invite you to join our upcoming online Speaker Series (Feb 26 - Mar 1) featuring prominent women in the art world including a museum director, gallery director, arts organization director, artists, and art consultant.

As an Art Consultant, I am on a mission to help more women invest in art while supporting more women artists, because the world needs more women who unapologetically express their unique truth. When a woman feels empowered to trust her own taste and invest in art, she is expressing her truth. When she invests in a woman artist, she is supporting another woman who is also expressing her truth. By supporting this ongoing cycle of creativity-investment-inspiration, we give more women permission to share their unique gifts in all areas.

A brief introduction to the five guest speakers we’ll hear from this week.

Register now to receive access to all five days (Feb 26 - Mar 1) of incredible LIVE interviews where you'll learn from incredible women in the art world and have an opportunity to ask questions.

Register here: www.CreatrixArtConsulting.com/events

Your Monday Muse #11

Museum-quality limited edition silkscreen prints created by Elizabeth Corkery in collaboration with artists such as Alyson Fox, and even using designs and ideas from ceramic sculptures by invited artists (2024, Print Club ltd.)

One of my greatest strengths as an Art Consultant is having a visual memory, and putting my visual knowledge bank to work for my clients.

I actually entered college with the intention of studying Biology. However, when I took Art History as an elective, I discovered it was easy for me to view a slide during class while listening to the teacher talk about an artwork, then regurgitate that same information while viewing the slide again a few weeks later during an exam. When my Art History professor said I could complete most of the credits toward an Art History degree in one year of studying abroad, I declared Art History as my major and chose to live in Italy for my junior year of college (best decision ever!).

Now, I spend my days visiting artist studios, galleries, museums, art fairs, and private collections (largely for my own enjoyment, but also) to absorb the knowledge I share with my clients. Then, when I learn about a client’s goals for how they want to feel when they view their art, or how they want the art to impact those who enter their space, I have a visual database of art options to reference and recommend.

Most recently, my art excursions have introduced me to art mavens here in Sacramento including Elizabeth Corkery (Founder/Creative Director at Print Club ltd.), Judy “JJ” Jacobs (Painter/Glass Artist), and emerging artist Roxanne Broader Young (Abstract Artist).

If you’d like to join me on my future art excursions, reply to this email to let me know your preferences (i.e. landscapes vs. abstracts; museums vs. studios; Sacramento vs. Napa; weekday vs. weekend; same-day vs. overnight; etc.), or simply to say “Yes, I’m in!”

I am currently scheduling VIP art tours for 2024 and want to ensure there is one designed especially for you!

Your Monday Muse #10

“Saurien” (meaning “large reptile” in French; 1975) is one of many monumental sculptures known as “stabiles” by American artist Alexander Calder.

“Who is your favorite artist?”

As an Art Consultant, I often receive this question. So, to ring in the new year (and commemorate this being the tenth blog entry), I thought I’d share my answer.

The truth is “I can’t choose only one!”

(Sidenote: if you’ve read Barbara Sher’s “Refuse to Choose!: Use All of Your Interests, Passions, and Hobbies to Create the Life and Career of your Dreams”, you’ll recognize I am definitely what she calls a “scanner” and consider it one of my best qualities).

As a Sotheby’s grad student (when I received this question almost daily), my typical answer was “Alexander Calder”, which still holds true. At the time, my preference was largely informed by the fact his big red sculpture “Saurien” was highly visible outside the entrance to my best friend’s workplace on Madison Avenue, which somehow made me feel a sense of personal connection to the Big Apple, her big-girl job, and my big ambitions as an art maven. My familiarity and appreciation of his artwork continued to grow each time I was pleasantly surprised to find one included in the myriad of museums and private collections we visited for school.

Alexander Calder was an American born in the late 19th century. As is true for many creatives (then and now), his parents didn’t want him to become an artist. So, he pursued mechanical engineering. However, artistry was in his blood and by the age of thirty-three he earned his first gallery exhibit in Paris. While he was the first to be recognized for “drawing in space” with figurative wire sculptures, he is best known for his kinetic sculptures, which were a significant departure from the traditional notion of art as a static object.

I’ve had the pleasure of seeing his work in private collections and in the Whitney, Guggenheim, and MoMA in NY, National Gallery of Art in DC, and SF MoMA here in California. His hanging sculptures bring me joy. Their simplicity and playful shapes, colors and composition belie their sophisticated influences and elegant construction. With thoughtful placement, a Calder mobile can elevate the energy of any environment.

“Lone Yellow” (1961) kinetic sculpture by Alexander Calder, in SFMOMA collection.

“Your Monday Muse” #9

“Astral” by Shaun Burner (acrylic and spray paint)

I couldn’t stop staring… captivated by this painting.

Last Thursday, I had the pleasure of attending the opening reception of “Pareidolia” now on view at University Union until December 14th.

While each piece is a spectacular artistic accomplishment and genuine expression of raw emotion and universal truths, this particular painting had me mesmerized. It’s not a style or palette I typically prefer, yet the imagery felt familiar to my soul, as if from memory of my deeper knowing. It achieves exactly what I believe is the highest purpose of art: to evoke a deeper connection to oneself and each other.

Shaun Burner has outdone himself here, and that’s saying something. Do yourself a favor and visit the CSUS art gallery in early December while “Pareidolia” is still on view and consider purchasing a piece that captivates you.

Pareidolia: Seeing Faces in Abstract Places. A collection of works from Shaun Burner

ARTIST STATEMENT:

par· ei· do· lia ˌper-ˌī-ˈdō-lē-ə -ˈdōl-yə : the tendency to perceive a specific, often meaningful image in a random or ambiguous visual pattern.

Ever since I can remember, I have been haunted by the entities that present themselves in my waking and subconscious mind. Beings that would show up in a pile of clothes across a dark room, or in a tree’s foliage drifting in the wind. As a child they frighted me, as they always seemed to want to communicate something with me, but the ominous feeling overwhelmed me. As I’ve gotten older, I have learned to fully embraced these moments, when I’m blessed to catch a glimpse of such company. As I feel like they are my ancestors, or other dimensional forces speaking to me.

This body of work is a culmination of a few styles I have explored over the last couple of decades. There was a time within my practice that I would start with an idea of a finished piece. This approach is very much the opposite. I start these works without knowing the figures that decide to show up. First, laying down abstract line and pattern work, or organic fluid strokes. it is very much about being present, executing each line with the best intent, but continuing even if it’s not perfect. At a certain point, I step back, and I study the composition, and let it tell me the narrative. Many times, this results in a deep subconscious descend, which is both cathartic and revealing inward. I then proceed with fully elaborating the narrative and entities that present themselves.

“Pareidolia” exhibit on view at The University Union (6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819) until December 14, 2023.

“Your Monday Muse #8”

Me taking a painting class on my path toward self-discovery in my twenties.

Upon completing a work of art, the artist is no longer the same person she was when she started. The process is an evolution of self-discovery, decisions made, and serendipity. To create art an artist must visualize, follow her heart, and take risks. Creating a well-lived life is similar, it is an art.

In January 2024, I will host my sixth annual Vision Board Party. It will be a ten-day experience (January 1-10) with daily meditation/motivation sessions and two group gatherings for developing your personal vision, plus a bonus Q&A session especially for artists to ask me anything about working with art consultants, galleries, printers, clients, etc. to help increase art sales in 2024, so artists can experience more freedom to enjoy life!

*All are welcome. Even if you don't consider yourself an Artist, life is an art. Let's make yours a masterpiece!

If this sounds exciting, message me for event details.

“Your Monday Muse” #7

*photo by Jonathan Furlong

Like cold salted butter melting on hot breakfast toast, the voice of Johnny Cash was familiar and comforting as it bellowed through my radio on our way to preschool drop-off this morning.

Born and raised in Sacramento, I still consider myself a country-gal-at-heart and country music is the soundtrack to my life. That’s why I was over-the-moon proud when my hometown commissioned Shepard Fairey (one of the best known and influential street artists) to create a 15-story mural of Johnny Cash in the heart of Downtown Sacramento as part of Wide Open Walls 2018 (among several amazingly-talented local muralists also commissioned each year).

If you haven’t seen this towering homage to the man in black, I highly recommend ordering a craft cocktail from the rooftop bar at M!X Downtown and look up! While you’re Downtown, be sure to view Raphael Delgado’s mural of the California bear above Jalapeno’s restaurant and Maren Conrad’s mural of koi fish on the back of the MARRS building, two of my favorites by Sacramento-based artists.

I am honored to live and work in a city that showcases its flourishing art scene in such a way that is accessible to everyone. Enjoy!

Your Monday Muse #6

“Villa San Michele, Fiesole” by Catherine Harris (2005) … proof that I occasionally dabble in the creation of art, only to better appreciate what others do so well.

Art pairs well with wine; both are an acquired taste.

The fact that most people don’t like wine the first time they try it, yet some develop a taste for it and continue to evolve their preferences, creates an increasingly narrowed market for any given region, winery, varietal or year. The finite supply available to satisfy particular preferences creates demand, which increases the perceived value of certain wines. Sometimes that demand is the result of grapes being grown in the right place at the right time, sometimes it’s that they were picked at peak ripeness, or produced with perfect skill, or bottled in an attractive way, or marketed well, or simply offered in the right way by the right person who created a notable experience around its consumption. All this to say, some wine is in high demand because it is truly a masterpiece, while some simply got lucky.  Whatever the reason, high demand for a limited supply creates a sense of membership among those who have it and want it. 

The art market is similar. Sometimes demand is the result of an artist being in the right place at the right time, sometimes it’s that their work was discovered at peak ripeness (a.k.a. artistic maturity or cultural relevance), or their artwork is created with perfect skill, or finished in an attractive way, or marketed well, or simply offered in the right way by the right person who created a notable experience around its acquisition. Art acquisition creates a sense of membership among those who participate, which can make the art world feel exclusive (or even snooty). However, there is an artist, artwork, or market to satisfy any given preference.

Taste is subjective.

As an Art Consultant, it is my job to offer points of reference for how you naturally respond to art, to recognize your unique preferences and empower you to trust your taste enough to invest in what you love. The process is a journey, an education, an experience… and a cause for celebration, which pairs well with wine.

Your Monday Muse #5

“Rousing the Night” by Miriam Davis (2001)

The thrill of buying art is addictive and exhilarating! It brings you into the present moment and makes you feel alive. Since many don’t consider art a necessity, it feels both luxurious and indulgent. Investing in art defies logic, yet can be meticulously rationalized when desired. Supporting an artist and their creative pursuit triggers a philanthropic high. Personally, I love the feeling of finding and connecting with something greater than myself, a glimpse of our universal truth as depicted by an individual artist. 

My first time (buying art) was many years ago during Crocker Art Museum’s “Big Names Small Art” auction when it was held at Cal Expo (before the museum expansion; before I had a Masters degree in Art). I was the Community Arts Liaison for the alt weekly newspaper Sacramento News & Review, and Crocker was our advertising client. Free media access to events was my favorite job perk. I went to enjoy the wine and appetizers, with no intention of buying art. Investing in art was something the proverbial “they” did, not me. 

After touring the silent auction tables, an elder gentleman asked me which piece I liked best. I directed his attention to a tiny frame with an even smaller work of art inside. It was an abstract painting. I didn’t recognize the artist’s name but loved the depth of shadow and contrast achieved on such a small scale (less than four inches). He encouraged me to write in a bid. I was hesitant, but his confidence was contagious, so I did! By simply writing my name on that paper, I suddenly felt the same rush of anticipation as if I’d entered a high-stakes lottery. I was invested. I hovered to see if anyone out-bid me and crowded access to the bidsheet when last-call was announced. I won! All the winners from the same table were celebrating in unison. In that moment, the proverbial “they” became “we” — accessible, relatable and tangible. I was in. Maybe not yet an art collector, but I was now the proud owner of a beautiful original. I still feel that same exhilarating rush every time I view it on my livingroom wall and smile. 

Your Monday Muse #4

100 untitled works in mill aluminum (1982-1986) by Donald Judd, permanent collection of the Chinati Foundation

“Prada Marfa” was only an amuse-bouche to whet my appetite for the unexpected dichotomy that is Marfa, Texas: simultaneously rural yet sophisticated; elitist yet unpretentious; bland yet vibrant; boring yet memorable. 

The town of Marfa is in the middle of nowhere. From what I remember of our professor’s introduction, it started as a few army bunkers converted into an artist commune in the 1970s and now receives the art savvy elite by private jet. Upon our arrival downtown, it seemed to be one street with an historic hotel, post-office, restaurant, and food truck, plus galleries and art sites scattered around. 

We visited several galleries with quirky art and minimalist installations by acclaimed artists (emerging and established), but none of it moved me. Not until we drove to The Chinati Foundation (the site of the former bunkers-turned-commune). 

As I remember, we drove up the gravel road toward a small welcome center where we parked, got out, and were greeted by interns in matching t-shirts. I don’t remember them or most of my classmates being nearby the rest of my visit. I simply remember the art, the place, and how moved I felt by the experience. 

I didn’t know it at the time, but Donald Judd is kind of a big deal, and this place could be considered his masterpiece. The bunkers and surrounding fields are now preserved by his foundation. The bunkers are long, narrow, brick buildings grouped together in the middle of an open field that stretches as far as the eye can see in all directions. 

Upon walking into the first bunker, I was captivated by an arrangement of shiny silver boxes thoughtfully installed around the room. The exterior of each is nearly identical and large enough to contain the viewer, yet the interior of each contains varying angles of positive and negative space. 

Their reflective quality struck me as significant. Not only could I see myself, but  also the brick walls of the surrounding bunker and the expansive view of golden fields beyond the bunker windows were all reflected as part of the art. I became part of the art. My existence in the world (in that place, at that moment, having that experience) was part of the art. I felt seen. I felt moved by an artwork created decades prior. Its reflective beauty continues to exist without me, but for that moment I was part of it and that felt meaningful. 

The remaining bunkers were filled with more shiny boxes of varying colors, sizes, and configurations by Donald Judd, and equally-captivating installations (and paintings) by his contemporaries. I especially enjoyed Dan Flavin’s arrangements of old-school fluorescent light tubes and John Chamberlain’s crumpled metal (now seen with a whole new appreciation compared to my first gallery visit). 

Even with the artists being long gone, the energy of their creativity is palpable on-site. My experience of being there ignited a deep appreciation for site-specific art installations that cannot be replicated in an urban gallery, and for art tourism. 

***Are you subscribed to receive invitations to my upcoming art events? If not, subscribe below. If so, let me know where you’re most interested in touring: Sacramento, San Francisco, Napa, New York, or Italy?

Your Monday Muse #3

“Prada Marfa” art installation by artists Elmgreen & Dragset (2005)

*photo credit: Jeanelly Concepcion

Studying Renaissance Art as an undergrad versus Contemporary Art as a grad student required a big shift in my definition of what qualifies as “art”.

Renaissance Art demonstrates the artists’ skill at achieving formal beauty. Each painting or sculpture tells a story through its imagery and symbolism.

In contrast, Contemporary Art demonstrates the artists’ skill at achieving cultural meaning. Each piece reveals a truth about humanity through its creation as art.

To be honest, I didn’t get it at first. How could a pre-manufactured item such as a urinal be deemed as art?! How did painting a soup can count? And some even look like toddler doodles; seriously? I kept thinking it’s all a big joke, a big F-you to the museums, galleries and collectors paying big bucks for their nonsense. And there I was in New York devoting my college education to studying their antics.

But then, we took a class field trip to Marfa, Texas.

If you’ve never been, imagine flying into a major airport, then taking a charter bus down an open road toward nothingness for hours, until the bus finally stops and you get out. A tumbleweed rolls by as you look out toward the dry horizon line of nothingness in all directions, except for one small Prada boutique at the side of the road. It’s so out of place, it’s brilliant! “Prada Marfa” by artists Elmgreen & Dragset was the first contemporary art installation where I felt like I “got it”; like I was finally in on the joke.

As a self-proclaimed country gal at heart (with family still living on a middle-of-nowhere Colorado cattle ranch) now living in high-fashion New York, the irony of “Prada Marfa” spoke to me.

And THAT is the power and purpose of Contemporary Art: to break down the facade of society to reveal a truth about our humanity. Contemporary Art is “good art” when it successfully moves its viewer to discover more of themself.

As an Art Consultant, I enjoy being the matchmaker who gets to offer art that truly moves my clients; so, every time they view it in their space, they are reminded of their truth and know themself that much better.

Your Monday Muse #2

“Supine Woman” by Wayne Thiebaud (1964)

I was so embarrassed! It was the first day of grad school and I totally bombed our first assignment.

     We were expected to visit any gallery in New York and share our thoughts with the class. Since I’d been staying in an apartment close to Central Park on the Upper East Side, I walked to the nearest gallery listed at 980 Madison Avenue. Upon arrival, I wasn’t sure I was in the right place, because it was an opulent marble lobby with security desk and elevator (no art). Upon inquiry, the security guard vaguely waved me toward the elevator. As it arrived on the next floor, I felt almost too intimidated to step out, but did. The gallerista barely acknowledged my existence as I crossed the hardwood floor and looked past her podium. The lighting was dim. I still wasn’t sure I was in the right place, until I noticed a crushed ball of metal on the floor in the next room was spotlighted, with a gallery tag hung on the nearby wall. Despite there being a couple viewing rooms, there were only a handful of artworks on display: a few balls of crushed metal, a painting of a woman laying down, and a few other images on paper. I took some notes and quickly left.

     On our first day of class, our initial introduction to our grad school professor and Sotheby’s cohort was to state our name and share our recent experience visiting a local gallery of our choice. We were enrolled to study Contemporary Art (my previous degree was in Art History with a focus on Italian Renaissance art, so this was all new to me). When it was my turn, I mispronounced the name of the gallery I had visited, as well as the name of the artists. When I was done, my professor looked incredulous as she announced to the class that I had “a lot to learn.”

     Turns out, Gagosian is arguably the world’s largest and most prominent gallery with nineteen exhibition spaces (including the one I visited at 980 Madison Avenue). What’s even worse though, is one of the artists whose name I also mispronounced is actually a very big deal – get this – from my hometown! The painting I’d seen of a woman laying down was “Supine Woman” by Wayne Theibaud (not pronounced Tee-bod). Needless to say, my classmates and professor were not impressed, but my curiosity was piqued.  

^^^ THAT was the rocky start of my lovership with Contemporary Art. By the time I graduated from Sotheby’s Institute of Art (New York), I had visited several of the world’s most prestigious public and private art collections, enjoyed behind-the-scenes access to extraordinary works of art, gained my understanding of art as a business, and developed my ongoing passion for the creative muse only a few are bold enough to channel into art. 

Your Monday Muse #1

“The Birth of Venus” by Italian artist Sandro Botticelli (c.1484)

I remember sitting alone on the floor of the Botticelli room at Uffizzi Gallery in Florence, Italy while the museum was essentially closed (one of the many perks of studying abroad). Nearly 600 years after its creation, the newborn goddess still breezes in from the sea in her full glory of maidenhood as a lady-in-waiting rushes to cover her nudity. Venus is a representation of divine love.

    Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" is the first artwork chosen as Your Monday Muse, because this is the birth of our weekly art inspiration email, and because Renaissance art was my entry into art appreciation, AND because today happens to be my birthday! 

     I am delighted to celebrate virtually with all of you today and look forward to seeing you in-person at our first exclusive art party (details coming soon). To be sure you receive the invitation, subscribe to our newsletter.