A Successful Pairing of Art & Food

February ended on a delicious high note for EC Gallery and lovers of the culinary arts. Christopher M., "The Painter of Chefs", unveiled several brand new originals—it was a smashing success!

Having had the chance to speak with Christopher and get his personal perspective on how he feels about his most recent body of work, it’s quite clear that he is not an artist consumed with himself. In fact, Christopher explained that he does not consider any of his paintings truly complete until they are framed and in someone's home. This is all part of his plan to accomplish "synchronicity."

He draws a parallel between wine pairing with an exquisite meal and art that compliments and enriches a person's home. He explains, "Sometimes 2+2=5. This happens when the culmination of individual parts is greater than the whole. The painting should pair with a collector's life and home just the same way that a wine would pair with a meal."

Mr. Douglas Hill, Founder and Owner of Hill Family Estates Vineyards, was also in attendance. Christopher recently embarked on a 3-day tour of the Napa Valley, meeting some of the most talented and celebrated winemaking legends of our time, including Douglas. At the show, Christopher completed a special drawing just for him and presented it as a surprise.

In early April, Christopher will be jetting off to Atlanta to work with Chef Kevin Gillespie of Woodfire Grill (who also recently came in third on BRAVO TV’s acclaimed "Top Chef")! Keep your eyes open for more of Christopher's work to come!

It's difficult to view Christoper's work and not feel the flurry of emotions that is presented in each dramatic scene. When viewing Christopher's pieces, one is often reminded of the joyful feelings that are experienced when sitting down to a lovely meal with close friends and family. EC Gallery is thrilled to have wrapped up yet another exceptional presentation of beautiful, original works from this talented artist. Come see us again soon! We are located at Fashion Valley, the Historic Gaslamp Quarter on 5th and Market, and Seaport Village!

Group Sculpture Show at EC Seaport Village!

During the last weekend in January, EC Gallery hosted the Group Sculpture Show! David Bruce was a major highlight displaying several of his incredible frog sculptures. Having had the chance to speak with David personally about the inspiration behind his animated and enduring frog collection, he explained that he chose frogs because they represent a healthy and stable environment. All of the frogs’ poses were inspired by friends or family. He has frogs that read, dance and even meditate. Bruce practices yoga every morning, and feels it is a powerful contribution to his happiness and peace in life.

David's frogs certainly were not lonely at the show, as they were accompanied by many other beautiful sculptures as well! EC provided a garden of breathtaking Tuan sculptures, which truly must be seen in person to fully appreciate. Each one of Tuan's bronze creations is a celebration of the human spirit and life. We are at once filled with a feeling of tranquility and peace when viewing the graceful curves and impeccable composition of each of Tuan's creations. Most recently, Tuan just finished a 15-foot Vietnam War Memorial for the city of Westminister, California. His work has been exhibited throughout Southern California including the Bowers Museum, Pasadena Museum of Art, and the MOCA Museum. Additionally, Tuan’s sculptures have been slated for the permanent collection at the White House in Washington, D.C.

Staying with the sculpture theme, Loet Vanderveen had an entire table of his sleek, enchanting cats on display. A native of Holland, Vanderveen grew up very close to a zoo where he spent much of his free time and where he fell in love with the animals. It was not until much later into his adult life that he was able to attain private training in ceramics for several years, which led to his creations he makes today. His unique style is appreciated by collectors worldwide.

2010 Started out Right!

"Happy New Year!" - words we all know and have heard repeatedly. However at EC's Seaport Village Gallery this saying has proved itself so far! The Year started out for us with Hawaaiian Seascape Realist, Walfrido Garcia, setting up his easel and canvas to demonstrate for his fans and collectors that there are no gimmicks behind his moonlit seascapes - it's all skill and talent he's perfected and mastered over the last 20 years. We at EC were honored to have Walfrido in the Gallery on January 2nd (most people would take the Holiday off, but Walfrido preferred to spend the day with his collectors). He struck up great conversations with us - it's amazing to listen to him speak and paint the most amazing waves at the same time! By days end Walfrido had produced a gorgeous painting, and true to form left a packed Gallery speechless. Make sure you come by Seaport Village and see the current display of Walfrido Garcia originals and Hand-Embellished Fine Art Limited Editions. Aloha!