Mercury 20 Gallery

A collectively-owned art gallery near downtown Oakland with inspiring work by local artists? Yes. That's what this is. I've been to 4 openings here and am impressed by what I see. The gallery is adaptable, and really has a variety of artists exhibiting their work here. It is a digestible size, meaning you can stop by for a short visit to be inspired without feeling worn out afterwards. This place is a gem.

Very nice gallery. Welcoming and has a cozy feel to it. My youngest son and I stopped in after a day at Lake Merritt. I thought it would be a nice change for him to see art in person. I chose a good time to go in as a lot of folks were either walking off turkey and pie, at work , or at home. So I was able to ask questions and enjoy the art without a crowd. The ladies sitting in the gallery offered up information about the artist and their work the moment we walked in the rooms. They were interested in my interest about the work. I'm glad I chose to go and this was I believe my second time in this gallery. The first at this location.

I loved this gallery, the pieces all felt so personal and unique. I loved the exhibit facing the window - it was "circumference" by marie curtis ratcliff, and with the sun shining against her hung pieces, the reflections against the smooth white wall ere beautiful.The person gallery sitting the space was kind and patient, she was ready to answer any and all questions I had. The gallery is so nicely run, and the pieces selected were breathtaking

3rd gallery we saw on Fri 9/4/09 for Oakland First Fri of the Month Art Murmur: Mercury 20.It was the opening reception from 6-9pm w/ lots of artists. I didn't catch all the names of them.Julie Alvarado-"Heads & Tails" I saw lots of pics of cats.Jo Ann Blagini "New Work" - had apes, parrots, etc. I don't remember much sorry.I remember one artist was pouring drinks and his artwork had mice skulls in glass jars. Cool artwork though, I recommend the gallery.Hrs:Fri 4-7; Sat 12-3Website:http://www.mercurytwenty.com/

I attended a gallery exhibit and artist talk this afternoon. It was inspirational. The art was so dynamic, diverse and inspirational.

Update: they have moved into a beautiful new space at 475 25th St. This gallery is twice as big and really beautiful. There is also another gallery upstairs called Vessel, which also has beautiful art. Definitely worth visiting.