The second Friday of each month, Cleveland's Tremont neighborhood hosts a free Art Walk. The event is especially appealing during the summer months when artists and craft vendors set up along the sidewalks as well as the more permanent offering at the neighborhood stores and galleries. Parking can sometimes be a challenge during the summer, so arrive early and wear comfortable shoes. The compact area lends itself to exploring on foot. Although, virtually all of the stops on the Art Walk are interesting, some stand out. Below are my favorites:
Visible Voice Books and Music
(© 2008 S. Mitchell)
This independently-owned bookstore, located just off of Lincoln Park on Kenilworth, is the antithesis of the big corporate stores. Not only can the staff intelligently discuss new and not-so-new books, but the shelves in this wood-accented bungalow-style store are laden with new, gently used, and collectors editions in a huge range of subjects. On Art Walk nights, they offer complimentary wine and cheese. You can also order a bottle or a glass from their wine list and enjoy it on their outdoor patio. Visible Voice Books and Music, 1023 Kenilworth, 216 961-0084.
Brandt Gallery
Located across the street from Visible Voice, the Brandt Gallery is one of the most interesting and popular stops along the Art Walk. Each month's offerings are different and range from visual art in a number of media to poetry readings. Brandt, established in 1990, is the longest existing gallery in Tremont and specializes in the work on artists living and working in Northeast Ohio. Brandt Gallery, 1028 Kenilworth, 216 621-1610.Atmosphere Gallery
Located on Professor, in the heart of the action, this small storefront showcases some of the city's best artists, with working ranging from oil paintings and glasswork to sculpture, jewelry and photography. Art lovers are sure to find something to inspire and provoke thought. They even offer a lay-away plan to facilitate large, impulse buys. Atmosphere Gallery, 2418 Professor Avenue, 216 685-9627.Asterisk
(© arabella/cc license)
Arguably, the edgiest gallery in Tremont, Asterisk features a new exhibit each month, with the opening coinciding with the Tremont Art Walk. This gallery specializes in up-and-coming local artists, in a variety of media, most with a modern and sometimes political emphasis. Asterisk, 2393 Professor Street.
Pinky's Daily Planner
(© 2008 S. Mitchell)
Located next door to Fahrenheit restaurant, Pinky's just relocated from downtown. Their new gallery showcases the work of Stephanie Fralick, a local clothes designer as well as other area jewelry, clothing, and accessory designers. Her colorful wares range from full outfits to hand-painted silk scarves to unique accent pillows. Pinky's Daily Planner, 2403 Professor Street, 216 402-2536.
