09/18/2019
I knew this day would come. It is the ephemeral nature of pop-up galleries that they come to an end. It is a sad moment for me to have to announce that the Cheeky Monkey Pop-up Art Gallery will be closing at this location. We are currently looking for a new home and will inform everyone when we find one.
In the meantime, I would like to thank everyone who made this possible in the first place. My sincerest thanks to the following:
- Rick Dickson, and Rob Golden of the Dickson Co.'s . for providing the entree and support, both moral and financial to make this gallery possible in the first place.
- 9917 Joint venture - Mr. Giussepe Riccardi, and Michael, and Jo Anne DeMarco for graciously allowing us to use their space, and putting up with our presence during their renovation of this great space
- Terry Downs - Not only a great contributing artist but the logistical backbone of this operation. Terry provided a build-out and facilities so that we could be there with other people in the first place. Thanks also to Huber Frescas, NJ and crew for providing the logistical support to our endeavor.
- Kierk Ashmore Sorensen and Larry Ringgold for providing outstanding art which they both had to transport from a considerable distance to display in our beautiful city.
- Ms. Maddy May and Ms. Kelly Robinson. Our Docent interns. Not only did they provide us with their precious time, but their great attitudes and personal grace made the space pop. We NEVER could have been open when we were without them.
- Estela Velez de Paredez, Daniel Paredez, and Juan L. Romero of Furia Flamenca for their most outstanding performance last Saturday evening. Their professional and passionate performance of their beautiful art made the entire enterprise rise to its potential.
- To Mayre Downs. Thank you for making the connection which made this all happen, and Thank you for putting up with Terry & I during this grueling session.
- To My loving wife & life's partner Ann. She has been an art widow since May. During that time, she was President of our fabrication business (OEC Engineering Corp.). She was sole caregiver to our home, and her parents and who's father passed 3 weeks ago. A stronger person, I have never met. I am blessed to have Ann by my side. She is the love of my life and at least part of the reason that I do what I do.
- Last but certainly not least, to all the people who came and participated with us in our art. art is a subjective thing, and not always appreciated. I gave (Still Gives) me great satisfaction to see the enthusiasm, and belief that art makes a difference. It would have been an exercise in futility without all of you!
My heartfelt thank to you all. I am in your debt.
Until the next location, I wish you all the best - Peace, Love, and Happiness. May your road always be paved with these.♥️🐾
