Differing Paths for Art Galleries in Bristol and Newport - Inside Art with Michael Rose

Differing Paths for Art Galleries in Bristol and Newport - Inside Art with Michael Rose

The cultural landscape is constantly in flux. Artists and art spaces come onto the scene and depart with equal speed. In the East Bay at Bristol’s recently inaugurated space the Graham Gallery, a husband-and-wife creative team is sharing art with new visitors. In Newport, Coastal Contemporary Gallery just announced it will be leaving its physical location this month. The stories of these two art galleries illustrate the changing realities playing out in real-time for local art purveyors.

Founded in 2021, the Graham Gallery is located at 412 Thames Street in the heart of Bristol. It is the creative storefront for watercolors and mixed media work by Gary and Suzi Graham. A product of the pandemic, the gallery developed when space in the office for Gary Graham’s architecture practice became available as employees switched to remote work. Although moderate in size, the Graham Gallery is packed with art and every surface is adorned with something to see. The space is open on Saturdays from 12 - 5 pm, and also by appointment.

Currently, in addition to their own artworks, the Grahams are exhibiting intriguing mixed-media sculptures by local artist Timothy Hetland. In the future, the pair hope to partner with creators working in still other media like ceramics or photography. Generous and friendly hosts, Suzi and Gary aim to cultivate an inviting environment where their neighbors, visitors, and friends can discover artworks by fellow Rhode Islanders.

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When asked what he hopes for the space, Gary Graham replies, “We hope the Graham Gallery will become a platform to share with the community the talent and creativity of some established, and yet to be established artists in the region. We will be open to suggestions.”

Dealing art in Newport since 2018, Coastal Contemporary Gallery has been one of the state’s strongest bastions of contemporary art from area makers. Gallery owner Shari Weschler recently announced that the gallery’s current exhibition will be its last. Although Weschler also noted that CCG will continue to have an online presence through 2022, the loss of its physical showroom is a major blow for the art community.

Located in a beautifully renovated storefront at 491 Thames Street in Newport, CCG has hosted a range of artists during its run and brought a different point of view to the local scene. The gallery’s final exhibition, titled “Taking Flight”, will feature Weschler’s work alongside pieces by Deena Smith. The gallery will host closing receptions on April 22 and 23.

 

 

Asked to reflect on the most enjoyable aspect of running CCG, Weschler says, “My most favorite part of operating CCG would be curating – creating the narrative and ‘making art of other people’s art’. Sharing the exhibitions with so many people from all over the world was always the greatest prize. What I received in feedback, appreciation and uniquely random unexplainable gifts, was priceless. I am the wealthiest person on earth leaving this position.”

 

Weschler notes that her personal life has changed quite a bit since she began the gallery in 2018. Looking forward, she is excited to step into a new role. She will join a corporate coach as an executive assistant, a position she feels will allow her to continue working with artists in a variety of practical ways.

 

Speaking of the Rhode Island art scene, Weschler goes on to say, “I think Rhode Island does well for its arts communities. Running a gallery comes with much reward and great challenge, especially in a tourist-based city such as Newport. A key point would be to continue pushing the creative boundaries here, elevating the conversations and exploring innovative ways to bring attention from the global art market.”

 

While the conclusion of Coastal Contemporary Gallery’s run in Newport is a sad piece of news, the arrival of the Graham Gallery to Bristol is a bright spot for local artists. Shari Weschler can be justly proud of what she has achieved in her curatorial program, and Suzi and Gary Graham have a lot of excitement to look forward to as they deepen their creative journey in Bristol.

 

The business landscape is challenging for any entrepreneur, but for gallery owners it can be particularly difficult. If the citizens of Rhode Island really desire for their state to be a cultural destination, they must support galleries. While the most important form of support is through patronage, Rhode Islanders should also take an interest in acting as ambassadors for their neighborhood art businesses and organizations. It is only with broad and enthusiastic support that creative entrepreneurs can hope to thrive.

 

Learn more about Bristol’s Graham Gallery on Instagram at @grahamgalleryri, or visit their website at www.grahamstudiori.com.

 

Learn more about Newport’s Coastal Contemporary Gallery on Instagram at @coastalcontemporarygallery, or visit their website at www.coastalcontemporarygallery.com.