10/23/2024
Note from Jose Zelaya:
I’m a known art dealer of Haitian paintings and sculpture. My first Philly visit was in 1998. Through a special exhibition of over 900 works, collaborating with a local auction house, I sold art in Philly for (Oscar-winning director) Jonathan Demme (JD). I spent considerable time here for JD's 2014 auction. I’ve always been drawn to the strong sense of place that Philly has. It is that same feeling I enjoyed growing up on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
Opening this gallery has been a labor of love. Everything in it has been designed to create a welcoming space. We are deliberately different than a white cube gallery. We don’t have a reception desk that produces what seems to be a wall between the public and the exhibitions. Our vibe is welcoming and casual. We even have seating and a hosting counter for a day event or an evening reception. Yes, you can sit down and have a conversation about the art.
We hope the video translates the joy and pride of place we feel for Fishtown and our great city of Philadelphia
We’re gonna have great shows highlighting culture, ideas and experiences, identity, histories….spiritual visions or visions of what our future may be. At their best, artists thru their art fill and invigorate that something in our lives we can’t afford to be without. Art as an essential vehicle for knowledge, awareness…and growth.
We hope you enjoy our video!