Bella Vista - Contemporary Fine Art Gallery

Welcome to Bella Vista’s November 2009 Newsletter

Delicious smells of food coming from the kitchen. Colors of red, brown, gold, and orange splattered throughout my parents home. Sitting at the dining room table on Thanksgiving Day each year we would individually say out loud what we were thankful for. How different those answers were every year depending on our moods and ages. This year, I am thankful for everyone in my life and everything.

It is hard not to notice the holidays are fast approaching. We are busy preparing the gallery by bringing in lots of treasures. For those shiney sparkley people we have blown glass ornaments by local artist Judson Guerard and this year we will also be featuring hand leafed blown glass ornaments by Lea de Wit. Who says you need a tree to display your ornaments.........they look great hanging in a sunny window. Also, the gallery showcases both of these artists blown glass vessels and sculptures all year round!

Another place to find local treasures is during the River Arts District Studio Stroll. Artists of all mediums will have their studio doors open for an entire weekend. It is a lot of fun. I especially enjoy speaking to the artists about their work. They offer insight into their work; which I find fascinating.

Last year Glenn and I splurged and purchased two sake cups by our artists Becky & Steve Lloyd. These are truly some of my personal favorite treasures. Each piece is hand-carved by Becky and the porcelain is wheel- thrown by Steve. I love that the sake cups are functional art pieces and it makes drinking Vanilla Almond tea that much more enjoyable. Although, I think Glenn prefers drinking a shot of bourbon to tea with his sake cup. Oh well.

Speaking of drinks, there is a hidden jewel of a wine store called Appalachian Vitner. They are located near the gallery; which is very convenient for us. The environment is very relaxed and Charlie is great. Also, they have original artwork hanging for sale too. Another one of my favorite wine stores is Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar. This bookstore has very cool vignettes with comfortable leather sofas, large coffee tables, and of course tons of books. First thing first, put your wine and cheese order in and then claim your spot. Our favorite spot is in the art section. I love to gather a stack of books and as I sip my wine/champagne I carefully go through and figure out the books I want to purchase. This is secondary to the laughter and conversation had by my friends and me. That is what I love about this place, it is not a library or a typical bookstore. Laughter is permitted. Oh, about the books, there are new books, used hard back books and collectable books. The most difficult part of the evening for me is narrowing down my choices, for I would love all the books. At any rate, this place is a classical jewel.

If I don't see you..........................Happy Turkey Day!

…Christin

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