1821 Gallery

Local artist from Madera, MIchael Garcia, whose art pieces in the early 2,000's were influenced by his stay in Japan, is now showing his latest body of work at 1821 Gallery & Studios from January 4, 2018 though February 10, 2018. I have two of his earlier art work painted on recycled wooden grape drying trays to make raisins which is not only a cool way to recycle, but also using local materials that make direct connection to the environment surrounding the artist where he lives, thinks, breathes.Famous Japanese author, Mishima Yukio, is depicted in a series of portrait head images where each following image slowly progressively fades away. The second is a golden wash looking a lot like a Rothko color field. It's very Zen-like in creating a contemplative, nonexistential mood. Wishing Michael Garcia great success for this current showing. I tried to go Sunday afternoon only to find out it isn't open then. Look for opening time on my photos below.

What a beautiful gem downtown. I had the opportunity to check this lovely art gallery out during ArtHop and I'm exceptionally glad I did. 1821 is gorgeous, an ideal location for an event in their front entrance area. They have numerous rooms that are rented out as studios to individual artists, and a few rooms that simply showcase the owners' collection and favorites. The main room has one featured gallery for a season. Each room was filled with interesting, beautiful, quirky art that I wouldn't hesitate to buy and hang in my house (in the future... when I have a house...).Even though this gallery is slightly tucked away on a side street and easy to miss, it would be worth your while to come check them out on your own time, or at least during ArtHop (you might get a chance to get a delicious frozen treat from Donna at Ooh De Lolli too!). I would be happy to have an event with them in the future, and I wish them all the best in keeping this beautiful location alive and well Downtown.

This is a super cool, urban, downtown art space. Great vibe and amazing architectural details. This place has been beautifully restored and converted to studios and gallery. Great place to visit on ArtHop. I know people are afraid to come to downtown Fresno, but I've never had any issues or seen anything that would make feel unsafe. The art scene is happening down there and it's the place to go in Fresno.

I have stopped in here during ArtHop. It is a nice open style gallery with separate rooms for different artists. Love the big barn doors. They have a good variety of art from large paintings, to small prints, leather, and even gun powder pictures! The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that nobody really welcomes you there like some of the other galleries that the artists go out of their way to make you feel comfortable coming into their "home."