Fifty area artisans display their myriad works on all floors. Twinkling from behind display cases sit a beautiful array of hand-crafted necklaces and bracelets, surrounded by fuzzy, funky knit wearables. Walls are covered in photographs, watercolor and oil paintings, some whimsical, others more ornate and structured. Walking through the main entrance brings both a sense of peace and immediate sensory engagement.
About Fra Angelica Gallery and Studio:
For Linda Damiani, part-owner and working fiber artist, Fra Angelica is clearly a labor of love. "We're (she and partner Nancy Kearns) at a point now, after a few years of gathering some of the best regional artists, of where it's finally all coming together," Damiani explained. "Our first year goal was really to get the gallery up and running, then get the website going along with classes, parties and e-commerce."They collaborated to create Fra Angelica after struggling to find the right venue to display and market their own artwork. They met at another local gallery where both housed their respective offerings. Adler Kearns works with etched glass; her large, finely-detailed pieces and smaller designs located throughout "Fra Angelica" are simply breathtaking.Promoting Local Artists:
"We wanted to offer artists a place where they could not only display their work, but also where we could promote them, give them some space to meet with clients," Damiani stated.Located in an historic building next to the railroad tracks on the Avon/Avon Lake border, Fra Angelica is truly a one-of-a-kind find for individuals seeking special pieces with a regional connection.
The gallery features, among the aforementioned media, ceramics, hand-forged metals, woodworking and even traditional rug hooking by Sibyl Osicka, who dyes her own fiber to create intricate tapestries from unique color palettes.Fra Angelica's roster of artists grew from twenty to fifty through the owners visiting art shows and sometimes through sheer serendipity. David Di Zimo, resident woodworking artist was found two summers ago at a craft show in New York. Impressed by his work, a friend of Damiani felt compelled to ask him where he called home. It turned out to be Wellington, and now his designs are prominently displayed in the Avon gallery."Our artists are some of the most amazing local talents," she stated, pointing to the work of artists Susan Lyden, Martha Rini, and Jen Rynbrandt.
Special Events at Fra Angelica:
Artists rent general space each month, not designated in square footage, where their work can be featured. They also pay a low commission on their work. Both owners are keenly aware that galleries charge exorbitant, often prohibitive fees; they strive to keep commissions and rent reasonably affordable in a competitive market.Right now, they're considering opening the upstairs space for artists studios, yoga instruction or a business that would blend well with the gallery's feel.
For Kids:
In the back of the main floor, a special area featuring various child-friendly crafts, a warm, welcoming look and gathering space is the setting for classes and birthday parties. Kids from preschool age on up can choose a special project, including glass etching, working with clay or creating jewelry, as a feature of their birthday party. Art supplies and instruction are included.Classes:
Classes are available to everyone in a number of different art forms, including beginning clay and beading, watercolor and silk painting. Special knitting clinics are held for established knitters and Friday is "Open Studio" day where patrons are encouraged to bring a project of their choice on which to work. They also do a number of fund-raising projects.Hours and Contact Information:
Fra Angelica Gallery and Studio is open Wednesday, Friday, Saturday from 11am to 6pm, Sunday from noon to 4pm, and Thursday from 11am to 8pm.Fra Angelica Gallery and Studio
812 Center Rd. (Route 83)
Avon, OH
440 937-3040.
(updated 2-23-08)
