During an outing at Abbot Kinney Boulevard in the center of Venice, clothing stores and cafés appeal to everyday locals and tourists. Among the various boutiques and galleries, the eccentric Very Venice Art and Design Gallery catches the eye of every pedestrian that is looking to enhance and broaden their artistic vision.
This bungalow, featuring a black and yellow silhouette mural of an urban city-street in Venice, warmly greets each enthusiastic guest. Whether one is drawn in by the Siamese twins mannequin, which displays the gallery’s name, or by the bronze statue which seems to be a prospector emptying his bucket, the display outside is sure to allure any wanderer’s curiosity.
To those affiliated with the area’s art colony, an untouched world is discovered beyond the artistic communal boulevard of Abbot Kinney. Aside from the countless unique cafés and one of-a-kind clothing stores, Very Venice Art and Design Gallery is a place where artists can freely express their activity.
Founded by Dary Rees, the gallery strives to present the art of Venice locals. Rees strives to incorporate the bohemian, urban style of Venice into her gallery to attract to art collectors from around the world. Inside, collections of innovative artwork are featured along with the funky décor of the gallery itself. Every wall is decorated with a vast array of both surrealist and realist art. Within the gallery there are individual rooms that each have a specific theme or color scheme. One room may contain art with vibrantly colored works while another room hosts an artist’s corner that showcases Gothic pieces.
Displayed in the artist’s corner, some select pieces include a compilation of mosaic and ceramic collages that express distinguishing themes. One mosaic frame consists of pink and green tiles with ceramic roses and tea cups. While at first glance the one-of-a-kind piece may seem light-hearted and appealing, dark and disturbing elements are incorporated into the display in order to create a contrast.
Roaming the streets of Venice, many will discover the wonders of the unconventional art scene. Very Venice Art and Design Gallery adds to the immense, youthful art scene with its inconceivable beauty. •
Located at: 1629 Abbott Kinney Boulevard Venice, CA
Open Daily from 10 AM to 7 PM