|
 |
 |
||||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
August 16, 2002 "BEST OF THE BAY" GALLERY SPOTLIGHTS EMERGING ARTISTS SAN FRANCISCO - The CITY ART Gallery, recently named best art gallery in the Bay Area by the Bay Guardian newspaper, will highlight emerging, local artists at its upcoming exhibit in September. Take the opportunity to see the latest art work to hit the San Francisco scene by attending an opening night reception, Friday, Sept. 6, from 7 to 10 p.m. "We're so excited and proud to be named the best art gallery in the Bay Area by local media this past month," said CITY ART Core Member Katie Gilmartin. "It's our ability to offer exciting and cutting-edge artwork from local artists at affordable prices that has gained us the reputation of being the best at what we do." As a cooperative gallery, CITY ART is owned and operated by local artists with the goal of providing affordable art to local residents while promoting the creative awareness of its artist members. During the first half of 2002, CITY ART has seen unprecedented gallery sales, despite the downturn in the economy and crash of the local dot.com industry. "We attribute our tremendous growth in sales in 2002 - sales that are higher than in the past five years - to the great artwork we're able to provide and the price we're able to charge," Gilmartin said. "Our philosophy at CITY ART is to put the artwork of local artists in people's homes. We're able to do this by making it affordable to just about anyone who walks through our doors. Plus, when you buy art at CITY ART, you are really supporting local artists. Unlike most galleries, every cent we bring in over our costs goes to the artists." Another attribute of CITY ART is to provide a wide range of styles and mediums. "We're a cooperative gallery made up of artists with many different styles, using many different mediums," Gilmartin said. "During any given month, there are at least 25 different artists displaying their work. Most of these artists employ different mediums and techniques in applying their craft. "Unlike other galleries that like to display artists with similar styles in the same genre, CITY ART embrace the diversity of its artists," she said. "If you come to CITY ART, chances are that you'll find an artist with a style and medium you'll like. And you'll be amazed at the prices - you don't need a six-figure income to be able to buy fabulous art." Gilmartin said another attribute that differentiates CITY ART from other local galleries in that the artists who create the art - not sales representatives - operate and manage the gallery. "Our member artists not only hang and sell their art, they have the opportunity to help run a gallery by volunteering to work shifts throughout the month," she said. "Art buyers will not experience the pressure felt at other galleries. If you're a first-time art buyer, CITY ART is the place for you." The "Emerging Artist" exhibit will run through Sept. 30. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday from Noon to 9 p.m. CITY ART is located at 828 Valencia Street between 19th and 20th streets and easily accessible by the BART and MUNI. Public parking is available two blocks away on 21st Street between Valencia and Mission streets. CITY ART can be reached at 415-970-9900 or through its website at www.cityartgallery.org. |