Sunday, December 2, 2012

Los Manos Gallery Relocates: Grand Re-Opening Friday Night


Las Manos Gallery celebrates its reopening on Friday, December 7th from 6-10pm. The business has relocated to 1515 W. Foster Ave. in Andersonville after losing its lease on Clark Street.

Las Manos Gallery moved to the community in 1994, bringing with it the culture that helped create the vibrant Andersonville of today. It was one of the first aesthetic pioneers in the area, paving the way for many design-based businesses.

The gallery was forced out of its home on Clark Street after almost two decades in Andersonville. It was first located on Balmoral Avenue for five years, then at its last location for nearly 15. At first it seemed that the business had to close for good - finding an affordable storefront in the neighborhood has almost become as rare as an empty one. After a month of no hope, several people in the community pointed out a space at 1515 W. Foster Avenue, right around the corner from the gallery’s old location. Though half the size, the potential to start again was tempting enough snap up the lease.

What makes this spot so enticing is the large enclosed courtyard behind it. Plans for sculpture gardens, film festivals, poetry slams and parties are all on next year's schedule. There is a lot of work to be done before these events can happen, but the gallery is well on its way - thanks to the many volunteers that have donated their time already. Clients and artists alike wielded sledgehammers, drills, saws and sanders. Without their enthusiasm the gallery would not have reopened. Las Manos’ emerging and professional artists have transitioned with us as well. Without them the gallery would not be able to continue hosting exhibitions, fundraisers and events that help keep Andersonville a cultural destination in Chicago.

Our Reopening Celebration and Exhibition will take place on Friday, December 7th from 6-10pm. New works by gallery owner Michelle Peterson-Albandoz and artists Michael McGuire, Doug Reyes, Juan Fernandez, E.C. and Mieke Zuiderweg will be on display.

The gallery will also participate in Andersonville’s Late Night and Late-er Night events on Friday, November 30th and Friday, December 14th from 6-10pm.

No comments:

Post a Comment