Last night was Midnight Madness in Downtown Annapolis. Everyone came out in their best holiday hats and festive costumes to shop the great deals the local shops and boutiques had to offer. I celebrated the evening by painting at a new local art store on Maryland Avenue called The Unknown Artist. The Unknown Artist is a hero to the local creative geniuses in the area. It gives people, such as myself, an opportunity to safely test the waters in any artistic adventure we may find ourselves in. Last night was my first night demonstrating acrylic painting and at the end selling it. This is the first time I have ever attempted to sell any of my paintings. Secretly in fear that it won't get sold. To my surprise it has barely been 24 hours since I put it up for sale and already I had 3 bites at it. One person is measuring their walls to see if it will fit. My hope is that is finds a good home and isn't collecting dust in the art store. Wish me luck! Below is the finish painting.
Saying Goodbye (Acrylic Painting) by Stephie Garcia
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Valentine's Day and "The Unknown Artist"
Valentine's Day is coming soon! These are some of the cards that will be in "The Unknown Artist" gallery in Annapolis later this week.
The Unknown Artist is a gallery in Annapolis about a block from West St. Chanel is the owner and she has gathered together the work of many artists in a cute little space. She is having art events for children once a month. Next time you are in the Annapolis area make sure to stop by and check it out.
I will adding more cards and gift items for valentine's day!
LIFESTYLEPublished 12/19/10
By Matthew Cole - For The CapitalChanel Melendez, 22, just opened a new art gallery in Annapolis. The Unknown Artist features a wide variety of work from 60 artists.
Chanel Melendez is truly living her dream.A few months after waking from an unusual dream about owning an art gallery, the 22-year-old Annapolis resident is running one. She's funding The Unknown Artist with her life savings and juggling full-time work behind the counter with college.
"I feel like being impulsive is actually not that bad a thing," she said. "It's a really cool feeling. I like being here and realizing this is my space. I did it."
She's not the only one venturing into the art business either, despite the sluggish economy.
A few new galleries have opened in the city even as some established venues, like the American Craftworks Collection, close. There's been so much movement that it often seems like a scorecard is necessary to figure out who's opening, who's closing and who's moving.
The net effect, though, is that the overall number of galleries has remained fairly consistent, said Cynthia McBride, who runs McBride Gallery and heads the Annapolis Gallery Association. The specific tally depends on what is classified as a gallery, but is usually in the 20s.
McBride also said business has picked up. "The galleries I've talked to are all pretty happy with what's happening this fall," she said.
This jibes with the response Melendez has gotten so far, and the interest at another new venue, Tyler Mitchell Galleries.
Katherine Burke, who runs The Annapolis Collection Gallery and opened a second location this year, chalks up the surge in business to sites like Facebook. "I think the days of waiting for people to walk in are over," she said. "Social networking is what I do a lot of."
Burke, who plans to consolidate into one gallery soon, said for one event alone - a 200th birthday celebration for Chopin - an ad on Facebook was seen by 577,000 people in just the first couple hours it was posted.
Melendez, who paints but doesn't have any of her own work in her gallery, used Facebook, Twitter and other sites to recruit artists. Mitchell also has an online presence.
"I think it's a huge mix of social networking and the persistence of the artists," said Melendez, who is finishing up studies at Anne Arundel Community College and intends to move on to four-year school in hopes of ultimately teaching elementary school art.
Most of the 60 artists in her Cathedral Street gallery are from Maryland and have never exhibited before. The eclectic selection of items ranges in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars and includes jewelry, paintings, clothing, sports memorabilia, books and photographs. "I want to help the ones struggling, but who are super-talented," she said.
Coming into focus
The way Tyler Mitchell sees it, getting laid off from his construction job in California was the best thing that ever happened to him.
The 31-year-old, who grew up in Davidsonville and attended art school, decided to move back to this area after losing his job this spring. He originally considered going back to school, but soon after relocating found out about a vacant storefront in Annapolis and decided to open a gallery featuring his photographs.
For the past couple years, he'd been selling his pictures online as a sideline business. He also had his work featured in six exhibitions this year.
"I feel like things have fallen into place," said Mitchell, which is a sentiment shared by Melendez. "Everyone I talked to said 'Go for it!' So, it's pretty exciting."
Tyler Mitchell Galleries opened 10 days ago in a State Circle space that used to feature Marion Warren's iconic pictures. His prints range from $30 to $200, with framed works priced higher. He also has calendars and other small items.
"It's been really exciting," said Mitchell. "It's a lot like going back to school in real-world experience. It seems like a good time to start something."
The art community in Annapolis has been receptive, and the response from the public has been good so far, he added.
Mitchell specializes in photographs of everyday objects, especially items noting urban decay, such a paint-flecked wall or the side of an old truck. They're captured at extreme close-ups so that the items appear to be more like abstract paintings.
"I'm hoping my stuff is a little different," he said.
Mitchell, who is self-taught as a photographer but trained as a painter, plans to use part of his gallery as a studio and eventually exhibit his paintings too.
"I'm going to be in here quite a bit," he said. "I feel like my work has a lot to offer."
Close call
It hasn't been as happy a holiday season for Kelly Richard at the American Craftworks Collection.
Richard, a sculptor from Tracys Landing who has had a gallery in Annapolis for 15 years, will close the doors on her Main Street shop on Christmas Eve, and currently has all merchandise 25 to 40 percent off. She'll spend the week after Christmas cleaning out the 2,900 square-foot space. (A wine bar is going to be the next tenant).
"It breaks my heart," she said. "It's like losing your child."
Still, the decision to close was easy based solely on finances. Richard said she's been losing money for a long time, and this year's sales have been especially bad. "I really thought I'd be able to hold on, (but) it just didn't make sense," she explained.
Her gallery specializes in quirky and classic crafts from about 150 artists, and she said they're worried about their future.
"I think everybody is concerned where they're going to be going," she said. "We've all become a family and had a good relationship for many, many years."
Richard, for her part, plans to start sculpting again and selling her creations, like papier-mache birds, online. When told that some people are opening new galleries as she closes, Richard remarked:
"I don't know that I'd want invest in any retail right now... (But) thank goodness there are people that want to try."
---
For more information about The Unknown Artist, call 443-822-9342 or visit the websitehttp://www.the-unknownartist.com/. For more information about Tyler Mitchell Galleries, call 619-446-7124 or go to tylermitchellgalleries.com. For more information about the American Craftworks Collection, call 410-626-1583 or go tohttp://www.americancraftworkscollection.com/.
Copyright © Capital Gazette Communications, Inc., 2010.
Talk Back
The Unknown Artist Opens
On Thursday, December 2, just in time for Midnight Madness, The Unknown Artist opened its doors. The cozy store, brainchild of Annapolitan Chanel Melendez, is located at 99 Cathedral Street in Annapolis, and features work from local artists. Highlighted artists in December are James Pariseau, Alina McElroy, Victoria Robb, Kristy Hall, Beverly Bryant, and Ann Green. Upcoming events include Midnight Madness on December 9, with a visit from Santa and a Toys for Tots collection; extended hours on December 11 for the Navy game; and a sale December 12–14. For more information, see The Unknown Artist’s website.
More Articles
Midnight Madness I
Event Date: December 2, 2010 - 6:00pm - 11:59pm
Stores stay open until the witching hour on the first of Annapolis Business Association’s two Midnight Madness nights of sales, with discounts and holiday festivities along Main St., Maryland Ave., inner West Street, City Dock and State Circle. Most stores serve refreshments after 6pm as you journey on a long winter’s night of shopping in search of the perfect holiday gift. Tonight, The Unknown Artist holds a grand opening, where you’ll find free Wifi, Santa posing for complimentary photos taken by professional photographer Alina McElroy and holiday movie screenings (99 Cathedral St., Annapolis). Take a break from buying to stroll through lavishly decorated Historic Annapolis, where roaming carolers fill the night with songs of the season. Saint Nick visits to spread Christmas cheer. Sponsored by the Annapolis Business Association, with free evening parking on Main Street for two hours. Also Dec. 9. 6pm-midnight at downtown Annapolis. free, including parking at Hillman and Gott’s garage and shuttle from Navy-Marine Corps Stadium off Taylor Ave., Annapolis: 410-349-4745; http://www.annapolismidnightmadness.com/. from Bay Weekly
Alina Costabile-Mcelroy
Last night was Midnight Madness in Downtown Annapolis. Everyone came out in their best holiday hats and festive costumes to shop the great deals the local shops and boutiques had to offer. I celebrated the evening by painting at a new local art store on Maryland Avenue called The Unknown Artist. The Unknown Artist is a hero to the local creative geniuses in the area. It gives people, such as myself, an opportunity to safely test the waters in any artistic adventure we may find ourselves in. Last night was my first night demonstrating acrylic painting and at the end selling it. This is the first time I have ever attempted to sell any of my paintings. Secretly in fear that it won't get sold. To my surprise it has barely been 24 hours since I put it up for sale and already I had 3 bites at it. One person is measuring their walls to see if it will fit. My hope is that is finds a good home and isn't collecting dust in the art store. Wish me luck! Below is the finish painting.
Saying Goodbye (Acrylic Painting) by Stephie Garcia
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Valentine's Day and "The Unknown Artist"
Valentine's Day is coming soon! These are some of the cards that will be in "The Unknown Artist" gallery in Annapolis later this week.The Unknown Artist is a gallery in Annapolis about a block from West St. Chanel is the owner and she has gathered together the work of many artists in a cute little space. She is having art events for children once a month. Next time you are in the Annapolis area make sure to stop by and check it out.
I will adding more cards and gift items for valentine's day!
LIFESTYLEPublished 12/19/10By Matthew Cole - For The CapitalChanel Melendez, 22, just opened a new art gallery in Annapolis. The Unknown Artist features a wide variety of work from 60 artists.
Chanel Melendez is truly living her dream.A few months after waking from an unusual dream about owning an art gallery, the 22-year-old Annapolis resident is running one. She's funding The Unknown Artist with her life savings and juggling full-time work behind the counter with college.
"I feel like being impulsive is actually not that bad a thing," she said. "It's a really cool feeling. I like being here and realizing this is my space. I did it."
She's not the only one venturing into the art business either, despite the sluggish economy.
A few new galleries have opened in the city even as some established venues, like the American Craftworks Collection, close. There's been so much movement that it often seems like a scorecard is necessary to figure out who's opening, who's closing and who's moving.
The net effect, though, is that the overall number of galleries has remained fairly consistent, said Cynthia McBride, who runs McBride Gallery and heads the Annapolis Gallery Association. The specific tally depends on what is classified as a gallery, but is usually in the 20s.
McBride also said business has picked up. "The galleries I've talked to are all pretty happy with what's happening this fall," she said.
This jibes with the response Melendez has gotten so far, and the interest at another new venue, Tyler Mitchell Galleries.
Katherine Burke, who runs The Annapolis Collection Gallery and opened a second location this year, chalks up the surge in business to sites like Facebook. "I think the days of waiting for people to walk in are over," she said. "Social networking is what I do a lot of."
Burke, who plans to consolidate into one gallery soon, said for one event alone - a 200th birthday celebration for Chopin - an ad on Facebook was seen by 577,000 people in just the first couple hours it was posted.
Melendez, who paints but doesn't have any of her own work in her gallery, used Facebook, Twitter and other sites to recruit artists. Mitchell also has an online presence.
"I think it's a huge mix of social networking and the persistence of the artists," said Melendez, who is finishing up studies at Anne Arundel Community College and intends to move on to four-year school in hopes of ultimately teaching elementary school art.
Most of the 60 artists in her Cathedral Street gallery are from Maryland and have never exhibited before. The eclectic selection of items ranges in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars and includes jewelry, paintings, clothing, sports memorabilia, books and photographs. "I want to help the ones struggling, but who are super-talented," she said.
Coming into focus
The way Tyler Mitchell sees it, getting laid off from his construction job in California was the best thing that ever happened to him.
The 31-year-old, who grew up in Davidsonville and attended art school, decided to move back to this area after losing his job this spring. He originally considered going back to school, but soon after relocating found out about a vacant storefront in Annapolis and decided to open a gallery featuring his photographs.
For the past couple years, he'd been selling his pictures online as a sideline business. He also had his work featured in six exhibitions this year.
"I feel like things have fallen into place," said Mitchell, which is a sentiment shared by Melendez. "Everyone I talked to said 'Go for it!' So, it's pretty exciting."
Tyler Mitchell Galleries opened 10 days ago in a State Circle space that used to feature Marion Warren's iconic pictures. His prints range from $30 to $200, with framed works priced higher. He also has calendars and other small items.
"It's been really exciting," said Mitchell. "It's a lot like going back to school in real-world experience. It seems like a good time to start something."
The art community in Annapolis has been receptive, and the response from the public has been good so far, he added.
Mitchell specializes in photographs of everyday objects, especially items noting urban decay, such a paint-flecked wall or the side of an old truck. They're captured at extreme close-ups so that the items appear to be more like abstract paintings.
"I'm hoping my stuff is a little different," he said.
Mitchell, who is self-taught as a photographer but trained as a painter, plans to use part of his gallery as a studio and eventually exhibit his paintings too.
"I'm going to be in here quite a bit," he said. "I feel like my work has a lot to offer."
Close call
It hasn't been as happy a holiday season for Kelly Richard at the American Craftworks Collection.
Richard, a sculptor from Tracys Landing who has had a gallery in Annapolis for 15 years, will close the doors on her Main Street shop on Christmas Eve, and currently has all merchandise 25 to 40 percent off. She'll spend the week after Christmas cleaning out the 2,900 square-foot space. (A wine bar is going to be the next tenant).
"It breaks my heart," she said. "It's like losing your child."
Still, the decision to close was easy based solely on finances. Richard said she's been losing money for a long time, and this year's sales have been especially bad. "I really thought I'd be able to hold on, (but) it just didn't make sense," she explained.
Her gallery specializes in quirky and classic crafts from about 150 artists, and she said they're worried about their future.
"I think everybody is concerned where they're going to be going," she said. "We've all become a family and had a good relationship for many, many years."
Richard, for her part, plans to start sculpting again and selling her creations, like papier-mache birds, online. When told that some people are opening new galleries as she closes, Richard remarked:
"I don't know that I'd want invest in any retail right now... (But) thank goodness there are people that want to try."
---
For more information about The Unknown Artist, call 443-822-9342 or visit the websitehttp://www.the-unknownartist.com/. For more information about Tyler Mitchell Galleries, call 619-446-7124 or go to tylermitchellgalleries.com. For more information about the American Craftworks Collection, call 410-626-1583 or go tohttp://www.americancraftworkscollection.com/.
Copyright © Capital Gazette Communications, Inc., 2010.
Talk Back
The Unknown Artist Opens
On Thursday, December 2, just in time for Midnight Madness, The Unknown Artist opened its doors. The cozy store, brainchild of Annapolitan Chanel Melendez, is located at 99 Cathedral Street in Annapolis, and features work from local artists. Highlighted artists in December are James Pariseau, Alina McElroy, Victoria Robb, Kristy Hall, Beverly Bryant, and Ann Green. Upcoming events include Midnight Madness on December 9, with a visit from Santa and a Toys for Tots collection; extended hours on December 11 for the Navy game; and a sale December 12–14. For more information, see The Unknown Artist’s website.
More Articles
Midnight Madness I
Event Date: December 2, 2010 - 6:00pm - 11:59pm
Stores stay open until the witching hour on the first of Annapolis Business Association’s two Midnight Madness nights of sales, with discounts and holiday festivities along Main St., Maryland Ave., inner West Street, City Dock and State Circle. Most stores serve refreshments after 6pm as you journey on a long winter’s night of shopping in search of the perfect holiday gift. Tonight, The Unknown Artist holds a grand opening, where you’ll find free Wifi, Santa posing for complimentary photos taken by professional photographer Alina McElroy and holiday movie screenings (99 Cathedral St., Annapolis). Take a break from buying to stroll through lavishly decorated Historic Annapolis, where roaming carolers fill the night with songs of the season. Saint Nick visits to spread Christmas cheer. Sponsored by the Annapolis Business Association, with free evening parking on Main Street for two hours. Also Dec. 9. 6pm-midnight at downtown Annapolis. free, including parking at Hillman and Gott’s garage and shuttle from Navy-Marine Corps Stadium off Taylor Ave., Annapolis: 410-349-4745; http://www.annapolismidnightmadness.com/. from Bay Weekly
Alina Costabile-Mcelroy
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Valentine's Day and "The Unknown Artist"
Valentine's Day is coming soon! These are some of the cards that will be in "The Unknown Artist" gallery in Annapolis later this week.The Unknown Artist is a gallery in Annapolis about a block from West St. Chanel is the owner and she has gathered together the work of many artists in a cute little space. She is having art events for children once a month. Next time you are in the Annapolis area make sure to stop by and check it out.
I will adding more cards and gift items for valentine's day!
LIFESTYLEPublished 12/19/10By Matthew Cole - For The CapitalChanel Melendez, 22, just opened a new art gallery in Annapolis. The Unknown Artist features a wide variety of work from 60 artists.
Chanel Melendez is truly living her dream.A few months after waking from an unusual dream about owning an art gallery, the 22-year-old Annapolis resident is running one. She's funding The Unknown Artist with her life savings and juggling full-time work behind the counter with college.
"I feel like being impulsive is actually not that bad a thing," she said. "It's a really cool feeling. I like being here and realizing this is my space. I did it."
She's not the only one venturing into the art business either, despite the sluggish economy.
A few new galleries have opened in the city even as some established venues, like the American Craftworks Collection, close. There's been so much movement that it often seems like a scorecard is necessary to figure out who's opening, who's closing and who's moving.
The net effect, though, is that the overall number of galleries has remained fairly consistent, said Cynthia McBride, who runs McBride Gallery and heads the Annapolis Gallery Association. The specific tally depends on what is classified as a gallery, but is usually in the 20s.
McBride also said business has picked up. "The galleries I've talked to are all pretty happy with what's happening this fall," she said.
This jibes with the response Melendez has gotten so far, and the interest at another new venue, Tyler Mitchell Galleries.
Katherine Burke, who runs The Annapolis Collection Gallery and opened a second location this year, chalks up the surge in business to sites like Facebook. "I think the days of waiting for people to walk in are over," she said. "Social networking is what I do a lot of."
Burke, who plans to consolidate into one gallery soon, said for one event alone - a 200th birthday celebration for Chopin - an ad on Facebook was seen by 577,000 people in just the first couple hours it was posted.
Melendez, who paints but doesn't have any of her own work in her gallery, used Facebook, Twitter and other sites to recruit artists. Mitchell also has an online presence.
"I think it's a huge mix of social networking and the persistence of the artists," said Melendez, who is finishing up studies at Anne Arundel Community College and intends to move on to four-year school in hopes of ultimately teaching elementary school art.
Most of the 60 artists in her Cathedral Street gallery are from Maryland and have never exhibited before. The eclectic selection of items ranges in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars and includes jewelry, paintings, clothing, sports memorabilia, books and photographs. "I want to help the ones struggling, but who are super-talented," she said.
Coming into focus
The way Tyler Mitchell sees it, getting laid off from his construction job in California was the best thing that ever happened to him.
The 31-year-old, who grew up in Davidsonville and attended art school, decided to move back to this area after losing his job this spring. He originally considered going back to school, but soon after relocating found out about a vacant storefront in Annapolis and decided to open a gallery featuring his photographs.
For the past couple years, he'd been selling his pictures online as a sideline business. He also had his work featured in six exhibitions this year.
"I feel like things have fallen into place," said Mitchell, which is a sentiment shared by Melendez. "Everyone I talked to said 'Go for it!' So, it's pretty exciting."
Tyler Mitchell Galleries opened 10 days ago in a State Circle space that used to feature Marion Warren's iconic pictures. His prints range from $30 to $200, with framed works priced higher. He also has calendars and other small items.
"It's been really exciting," said Mitchell. "It's a lot like going back to school in real-world experience. It seems like a good time to start something."
The art community in Annapolis has been receptive, and the response from the public has been good so far, he added.
Mitchell specializes in photographs of everyday objects, especially items noting urban decay, such a paint-flecked wall or the side of an old truck. They're captured at extreme close-ups so that the items appear to be more like abstract paintings.
"I'm hoping my stuff is a little different," he said.
Mitchell, who is self-taught as a photographer but trained as a painter, plans to use part of his gallery as a studio and eventually exhibit his paintings too.
"I'm going to be in here quite a bit," he said. "I feel like my work has a lot to offer."
Close call
It hasn't been as happy a holiday season for Kelly Richard at the American Craftworks Collection.
Richard, a sculptor from Tracys Landing who has had a gallery in Annapolis for 15 years, will close the doors on her Main Street shop on Christmas Eve, and currently has all merchandise 25 to 40 percent off. She'll spend the week after Christmas cleaning out the 2,900 square-foot space. (A wine bar is going to be the next tenant).
"It breaks my heart," she said. "It's like losing your child."
Still, the decision to close was easy based solely on finances. Richard said she's been losing money for a long time, and this year's sales have been especially bad. "I really thought I'd be able to hold on, (but) it just didn't make sense," she explained.
Her gallery specializes in quirky and classic crafts from about 150 artists, and she said they're worried about their future.
"I think everybody is concerned where they're going to be going," she said. "We've all become a family and had a good relationship for many, many years."
Richard, for her part, plans to start sculpting again and selling her creations, like papier-mache birds, online. When told that some people are opening new galleries as she closes, Richard remarked:
"I don't know that I'd want invest in any retail right now... (But) thank goodness there are people that want to try."
---
For more information about The Unknown Artist, call 443-822-9342 or visit the websitehttp://www.the-unknownartist.com/. For more information about Tyler Mitchell Galleries, call 619-446-7124 or go to tylermitchellgalleries.com. For more information about the American Craftworks Collection, call 410-626-1583 or go tohttp://www.americancraftworkscollection.com/.
Copyright © Capital Gazette Communications, Inc., 2010.
Talk Back
The Unknown Artist Opens
On Thursday, December 2, just in time for Midnight Madness, The Unknown Artist opened its doors. The cozy store, brainchild of Annapolitan Chanel Melendez, is located at 99 Cathedral Street in Annapolis, and features work from local artists. Highlighted artists in December are James Pariseau, Alina McElroy, Victoria Robb, Kristy Hall, Beverly Bryant, and Ann Green. Upcoming events include Midnight Madness on December 9, with a visit from Santa and a Toys for Tots collection; extended hours on December 11 for the Navy game; and a sale December 12–14. For more information, see The Unknown Artist’s website.
More Articles
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Valentine's Day and "The Unknown Artist"
Valentine's Day is coming soon! These are some of the cards that will be in "The Unknown Artist" gallery in Annapolis later this week.The Unknown Artist is a gallery in Annapolis about a block from West St. Chanel is the owner and she has gathered together the work of many artists in a cute little space. She is having art events for children once a month. Next time you are in the Annapolis area make sure to stop by and check it out.
I will adding more cards and gift items for valentine's day!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Valentine's Day and "The Unknown Artist"
Valentine's Day is coming soon! These are some of the cards that will be in "The Unknown Artist" gallery in Annapolis later this week.The Unknown Artist is a gallery in Annapolis about a block from West St. Chanel is the owner and she has gathered together the work of many artists in a cute little space. She is having art events for children once a month. Next time you are in the Annapolis area make sure to stop by and check it out.
The Unknown Artist is a gallery in Annapolis about a block from West St. Chanel is the owner and she has gathered together the work of many artists in a cute little space. She is having art events for children once a month. Next time you are in the Annapolis area make sure to stop by and check it out. 
LIFESTYLEPublished 12/19/10By Matthew Cole - For The CapitalChanel Melendez, 22, just opened a new art gallery in Annapolis. The Unknown Artist features a wide variety of work from 60 artists.
Chanel Melendez is truly living her dream.A few months after waking from an unusual dream about owning an art gallery, the 22-year-old Annapolis resident is running one. She's funding The Unknown Artist with her life savings and juggling full-time work behind the counter with college.
"I feel like being impulsive is actually not that bad a thing," she said. "It's a really cool feeling. I like being here and realizing this is my space. I did it."
She's not the only one venturing into the art business either, despite the sluggish economy.
A few new galleries have opened in the city even as some established venues, like the American Craftworks Collection, close. There's been so much movement that it often seems like a scorecard is necessary to figure out who's opening, who's closing and who's moving.
The net effect, though, is that the overall number of galleries has remained fairly consistent, said Cynthia McBride, who runs McBride Gallery and heads the Annapolis Gallery Association. The specific tally depends on what is classified as a gallery, but is usually in the 20s.
McBride also said business has picked up. "The galleries I've talked to are all pretty happy with what's happening this fall," she said.
This jibes with the response Melendez has gotten so far, and the interest at another new venue, Tyler Mitchell Galleries.
Katherine Burke, who runs The Annapolis Collection Gallery and opened a second location this year, chalks up the surge in business to sites like Facebook. "I think the days of waiting for people to walk in are over," she said. "Social networking is what I do a lot of."
Burke, who plans to consolidate into one gallery soon, said for one event alone - a 200th birthday celebration for Chopin - an ad on Facebook was seen by 577,000 people in just the first couple hours it was posted.
Melendez, who paints but doesn't have any of her own work in her gallery, used Facebook, Twitter and other sites to recruit artists. Mitchell also has an online presence.
"I think it's a huge mix of social networking and the persistence of the artists," said Melendez, who is finishing up studies at Anne Arundel Community College and intends to move on to four-year school in hopes of ultimately teaching elementary school art.
Most of the 60 artists in her Cathedral Street gallery are from Maryland and have never exhibited before. The eclectic selection of items ranges in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars and includes jewelry, paintings, clothing, sports memorabilia, books and photographs. "I want to help the ones struggling, but who are super-talented," she said.
Coming into focus
The way Tyler Mitchell sees it, getting laid off from his construction job in California was the best thing that ever happened to him.
The 31-year-old, who grew up in Davidsonville and attended art school, decided to move back to this area after losing his job this spring. He originally considered going back to school, but soon after relocating found out about a vacant storefront in Annapolis and decided to open a gallery featuring his photographs.
For the past couple years, he'd been selling his pictures online as a sideline business. He also had his work featured in six exhibitions this year.
"I feel like things have fallen into place," said Mitchell, which is a sentiment shared by Melendez. "Everyone I talked to said 'Go for it!' So, it's pretty exciting."
Tyler Mitchell Galleries opened 10 days ago in a State Circle space that used to feature Marion Warren's iconic pictures. His prints range from $30 to $200, with framed works priced higher. He also has calendars and other small items.
"It's been really exciting," said Mitchell. "It's a lot like going back to school in real-world experience. It seems like a good time to start something."
The art community in Annapolis has been receptive, and the response from the public has been good so far, he added.
Mitchell specializes in photographs of everyday objects, especially items noting urban decay, such a paint-flecked wall or the side of an old truck. They're captured at extreme close-ups so that the items appear to be more like abstract paintings.
"I'm hoping my stuff is a little different," he said.
Mitchell, who is self-taught as a photographer but trained as a painter, plans to use part of his gallery as a studio and eventually exhibit his paintings too.
"I'm going to be in here quite a bit," he said. "I feel like my work has a lot to offer."
Close call
It hasn't been as happy a holiday season for Kelly Richard at the American Craftworks Collection.
Richard, a sculptor from Tracys Landing who has had a gallery in Annapolis for 15 years, will close the doors on her Main Street shop on Christmas Eve, and currently has all merchandise 25 to 40 percent off. She'll spend the week after Christmas cleaning out the 2,900 square-foot space. (A wine bar is going to be the next tenant).
"It breaks my heart," she said. "It's like losing your child."
Still, the decision to close was easy based solely on finances. Richard said she's been losing money for a long time, and this year's sales have been especially bad. "I really thought I'd be able to hold on, (but) it just didn't make sense," she explained.
Her gallery specializes in quirky and classic crafts from about 150 artists, and she said they're worried about their future.
"I think everybody is concerned where they're going to be going," she said. "We've all become a family and had a good relationship for many, many years."
Richard, for her part, plans to start sculpting again and selling her creations, like papier-mache birds, online. When told that some people are opening new galleries as she closes, Richard remarked:
"I don't know that I'd want invest in any retail right now... (But) thank goodness there are people that want to try."
---
For more information about The Unknown Artist, call 443-822-9342 or visit the websitehttp://www.the-unknownartist.com/. For more information about Tyler Mitchell Galleries, call 619-446-7124 or go to tylermitchellgalleries.com. For more information about the American Craftworks Collection, call 410-626-1583 or go tohttp://www.americancraftworkscollection.com/.
Copyright © Capital Gazette Communications, Inc., 2010.
LIFESTYLE Published 12/19/10 By Matthew Cole - For The CapitalChanel Melendez, 22, just opened a new art gallery in Annapolis. The Unknown Artist features a wide variety of work from 60 artists.Chanel Melendez is truly living her dream. A few months after waking from an unusual dream about owning an art gallery, the 22-year-old Annapolis resident is running one. She's funding The Unknown Artist with her life savings and juggling full-time work behind the counter with college. "I feel like being impulsive is actually not that bad a thing," she said. "It's a really cool feeling. I like being here and realizing this is my space. I did it." She's not the only one venturing into the art business either, despite the sluggish economy. A few new galleries have opened in the city even as some established venues, like the American Craftworks Collection, close. There's been so much movement that it often seems like a scorecard is necessary to figure out who's opening, who's closing and who's moving. The net effect, though, is that the overall number of galleries has remained fairly consistent, said Cynthia McBride, who runs McBride Gallery and heads the Annapolis Gallery Association. The specific tally depends on what is classified as a gallery, but is usually in the 20s. McBride also said business has picked up. "The galleries I've talked to are all pretty happy with what's happening this fall," she said. This jibes with the response Melendez has gotten so far, and the interest at another new venue, Tyler Mitchell Galleries. Katherine Burke, who runs The Annapolis Collection Gallery and opened a second location this year, chalks up the surge in business to sites like Facebook. "I think the days of waiting for people to walk in are over," she said. "Social networking is what I do a lot of." Burke, who plans to consolidate into one gallery soon, said for one event alone - a 200th birthday celebration for Chopin - an ad on Facebook was seen by 577,000 people in just the first couple hours it was posted. Melendez, who paints but doesn't have any of her own work in her gallery, used Facebook, Twitter and other sites to recruit artists. Mitchell also has an online presence. "I think it's a huge mix of social networking and the persistence of the artists," said Melendez, who is finishing up studies at Anne Arundel Community College and intends to move on to four-year school in hopes of ultimately teaching elementary school art. Most of the 60 artists in her Cathedral Street gallery are from Maryland and have never exhibited before. The eclectic selection of items ranges in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars and includes jewelry, paintings, clothing, sports memorabilia, books and photographs. "I want to help the ones struggling, but who are super-talented," she said. Coming into focusThe way Tyler Mitchell sees it, getting laid off from his construction job in California was the best thing that ever happened to him.The 31-year-old, who grew up in Davidsonville and attended art school, decided to move back to this area after losing his job this spring. He originally considered going back to school, but soon after relocating found out about a vacant storefront in Annapolis and decided to open a gallery featuring his photographs. For the past couple years, he'd been selling his pictures online as a sideline business. He also had his work featured in six exhibitions this year. "I feel like things have fallen into place," said Mitchell, which is a sentiment shared by Melendez. "Everyone I talked to said 'Go for it!' So, it's pretty exciting." Tyler Mitchell Galleries opened 10 days ago in a State Circle space that used to feature Marion Warren's iconic pictures. His prints range from $30 to $200, with framed works priced higher. He also has calendars and other small items. "It's been really exciting," said Mitchell. "It's a lot like going back to school in real-world experience. It seems like a good time to start something." The art community in Annapolis has been receptive, and the response from the public has been good so far, he added. Mitchell specializes in photographs of everyday objects, especially items noting urban decay, such a paint-flecked wall or the side of an old truck. They're captured at extreme close-ups so that the items appear to be more like abstract paintings. "I'm hoping my stuff is a little different," he said. Mitchell, who is self-taught as a photographer but trained as a painter, plans to use part of his gallery as a studio and eventually exhibit his paintings too. "I'm going to be in here quite a bit," he said. "I feel like my work has a lot to offer." Close callIt hasn't been as happy a holiday season for Kelly Richard at the American Craftworks Collection.Richard, a sculptor from Tracys Landing who has had a gallery in Annapolis for 15 years, will close the doors on her Main Street shop on Christmas Eve, and currently has all merchandise 25 to 40 percent off. She'll spend the week after Christmas cleaning out the 2,900 square-foot space. (A wine bar is going to be the next tenant). "It breaks my heart," she said. "It's like losing your child." Still, the decision to close was easy based solely on finances. Richard said she's been losing money for a long time, and this year's sales have been especially bad. "I really thought I'd be able to hold on, (but) it just didn't make sense," she explained. Her gallery specializes in quirky and classic crafts from about 150 artists, and she said they're worried about their future. "I think everybody is concerned where they're going to be going," she said. "We've all become a family and had a good relationship for many, many years." Richard, for her part, plans to start sculpting again and selling her creations, like papier-mache birds, online. When told that some people are opening new galleries as she closes, Richard remarked: "I don't know that I'd want invest in any retail right now... (But) thank goodness there are people that want to try." --- For more information about The Unknown Artist, call 443-822-9342 or visit the websitehttp://www.the-unknownartist.com/. For more information about Tyler Mitchell Galleries, call 619-446-7124 or go to tylermitchellgalleries.com. For more information about the American Craftworks Collection, call 410-626-1583 or go tohttp://www.americancraftworkscollection.com/. Copyright © Capital Gazette Communications, Inc., 2010. |
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The Unknown Artist Opens
On Thursday, December 2, just in time for Midnight Madness, The Unknown Artist opened its doors. The cozy store, brainchild of Annapolitan Chanel Melendez, is located at 99 Cathedral Street in Annapolis, and features work from local artists. Highlighted artists in December are James Pariseau, Alina McElroy, Victoria Robb, Kristy Hall, Beverly Bryant, and Ann Green. Upcoming events include Midnight Madness on December 9, with a visit from Santa and a Toys for Tots collection; extended hours on December 11 for the Navy game; and a sale December 12–14. For more information, see The Unknown Artist’s website.More Articles
Midnight Madness I
Event Date:
December 2, 2010 - 6:00pm - 11:59pm
Stores stay open until the witching hour on the first of Annapolis Business Association’s two Midnight Madness nights of sales, with discounts and holiday festivities along Main St., Maryland Ave., inner West Street, City Dock and State Circle. Most stores serve refreshments after 6pm as you journey on a long winter’s night of shopping in search of the perfect holiday gift. Tonight, The Unknown Artist holds a grand opening, where you’ll find free Wifi, Santa posing for complimentary photos taken by professional photographer Alina McElroy and holiday movie screenings (99 Cathedral St., Annapolis). Take a break from buying to stroll through lavishly decorated Historic Annapolis, where roaming carolers fill the night with songs of the season. Saint Nick visits to spread Christmas cheer. Sponsored by the Annapolis Business Association, with free evening parking on Main Street for two hours. Also Dec. 9. 6pm-midnight at downtown Annapolis. free, including parking at Hillman and Gott’s garage and shuttle from Navy-Marine Corps Stadium off Taylor Ave., Annapolis: 410-349-4745; http://www.annapolismidnightmadness.com/.
Alina Costabile-Mcelroy
Paula Pariseau
Backfin Studio You can now find "Backfin Studio" art at "The Unknown Artist" in downtown Annapolis! Located at 99 Cathedral Street, Opening December 2, 2010 just in time for Midnight Madness. Open from 6pm till Midnight, there is a lot of great Artists on Display. Definitely a must see!!
Tiara Dorsey
Heather Lynn Ingram This is awesome Chanel. Congrats. Maybe I'll ship stuff out and sell my stuff there. :) hehe
Chanel Michelle thanksbaby! ahhhh!!!
Frustrations of doing business in Annapolis
Posted on 24. Nov, 2010 at 4:00 pm by John Frenaye in Businesses, LIFE IN THE AREA, Local News, NEWS
When Chris Fox was running for Mayor, part of his platform was making Annapolis a better place for business. He recalled the hassles involved with getting permission to install an awning over the front door of the Sly Fox Pub to prevent sliding ice (from the roof in winter) from decapitating his customers. Tiara Dorsey
Heather Lynn Ingram This is awesome Chanel. Congrats. Maybe I'll ship stuff out and sell my stuff there. :) hehe
Chanel Michelle thanksbaby! ahhhh!!!
Frustrations of doing business in Annapolis
Posted on 24. Nov, 2010 at 4:00 pm by John Frenaye in Businesses, LIFE IN THE AREA, Local News, NEWS
When Mayor Josh Cohen took office, one of his goals was to make it easier to do business with the City. Judging from this recent rant on Facebook, it doesn’t seem there has been much change. The Unknown Artist was hoping to open on December 2nd, the eve of Midnight Madness, but it seems as if they may have to do so without any signage.
Granted, we do not know any of the details of this denial, but clearly someone dropped the ball. How does a business succeed without being able to hang a shingle in front of their business? Who dropped the ball? Maybe the Realtor facilitating the deal should have said something. Maybe the tenant should have investigated a little more. Regardless, someone dropped the ball and once again, the City is put in a position of being business unfriendly.
1 Votes
Grand Opening: The Unknown Artist
Posted on 01. Dec, 2010 at 3:57 pm by John Frenaye in Businesses, Events, LIFE IN THE AREA
The Unknown Artist will be celebrating their Grand Opening on December 2nd during Midnight Madness and the celebrations will continue through th rest of the weekend.
The Unknown Artist is a new gallery in Annapolis which will feature the work of local artists in Maryland. Located at 99 Cathedral Street, they will offer free Wifi to guests as they relax, mingle and admire the local craftsmanship.
During the Grand Opening, professional photographer Alina McElroy, will be on hand to take complimentary photos with Santa. Guests can enjoy some home made baked goods, holiday movies and music as well. And, be sure to bring an unwrapped toy as The Unknown Artist is also supporting the Toys For Tots campaign!
You can read about The Unknown Artist in the recent column in the Historic Annapolis Patch.
“The Unknown Artist” – A New Venue for My Art: Grand Opening 12/2 & Private Artist Event 12/4!
November 28, 2010
The Unknown Artist is a boutique/gallery located in the heart of the historic district of Annapolis, Maryland. This unique off the path store was created by Chanel Melendez a local artist. This store is bursting with creativity! You’ll find everything from paintings to photography to ceramics to clothing to one a kind designs to t-shirts to novelty to jewelry to accessories to glass blown creations!
Check out some of the recent press that The Unknown Artist has already received below:
New Gallery Showcases Local Artists’ Talents, Historic Annapolis Patch, November 20, 2010.
AACC Student Paves the Way for Emerging Local Artists, Broadneck Patch, November 18, 2010.
The Grand Opening of The Unknown Artist
Thursday, December 2, 2010
6:00 p.m. until Midnight
99 Cathedral Street
Annapolis, Maryland
TOYS FOR TOTS EVENT!! Marines in attendance!
Santa Claus photo ops! All items 10% off!
Grab some complimentary hot chocolate and baked goods too!
Come meet the local artists/designers!
For more information visit:
Family & Friends Private Party
Saturday, December 4 · 7:00pm – 11:30pm
(please disregard typo on the date on flyer above)
99 Cathedral Street
Annapolis, Maryland
This event is for the Artist’s/Designer’s friends & family to come see their work, meet the other Artist’s and have a fun evening all together! I personally invite all my collectors, friends, etc. to come and celebrate this new venue!Admission is FREE but we request you bring a unwrapped/unopened toy for the TOYS FOR TOTS drive.
For more information visit:
LightUn2MyPath's Website - featuring our Grand Opening
New Gallery Showcases Local Artists' Talents
Celebrate and Shop for Gifts on Thursday, Dec. 2.
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Macaroni Kid - Annapolis - Kent Island
And To:
Shannon McClanahan
The Melendez Family
The Pariseau Family
Katie Jank
Rob McClaren
Cody Coldiron
Alina McElroy
Cat Reinheimer
Sean Dackermann
Tracy Faulkner
Cody Coldiron
Zack Tribull
Connie Flores
