I happened upon this place by complete chance, a mere passing glance of some marvelous, arresting use of watercolors. I had to get a closer look. And thus, I discovered Venture Gallery, a gem on the main boulevard of downtown Monterey. The painting that seized my complete attention and that I fell in love with is by Lou Roman, a local artist whose use of color is simply exquisite. Entitled "Dragonfly," her pairing of gray with pinot-hued red is striking and elegant, and reminds me of a delicate pattern of florals befitting a silk kimono.
The work of other local artists graces the medium-size gallery. Most of their depictions are of the breathtaking Central Coast, especially absolutely stunning Monterey. Serene landscapes and worshipful vistas, indigenous birds and sea animals, dramatic cliffsides and mountains, glorious foliage and trees, it is no wonder that local artists need not look too far when it comes to inspirational beauty. However, some artists look to the people for source material, capturing in diverse forms of media jazz musicians, fishermen, and writers, including John Steinbeck who famously made the Central Coast his home, and wrote a book about Monterey, "Cannery Row."
Rather than having an art director preside, the person at the desk is one of the local artists of this cooperative gallery. Wonderful idea. I will definitely return to this gorgeous find and hopefully my "Dragonfly" will be waiting for me. read more