Coconut Grove Gallery Night by Betty Alvarez

I have always loved Coconut Grove Gallery night and it has been a while since I have been to a gallery night in this section of the city. Therefore, I ventured out to what it was going to be a worthwhile experience. My first stop was at the Coconut Grove Arts Festival Galleries 1 & 2. Gallery one featured the exhibition “Master Thesis exhibition–Visual Art Graduates of 2011” in partnership with Ai Miami International University. Gallery 2 featured “Art-I-tecture” Artist Hans Petersen, presented vibrant, large scale images of aspects of architecture and environments translated into abstract paintings.

Next, I went to the Mayfair Promenade which many artists and vendors were selling various artworks from jewelry, art pieces etc. One distinct event that I have not seen in past Coconut Grove Gallery night before was when thirteen visual artists and a violinist came together to have an improvisational orchestra. This was presented by Brigitte Kishlar of the MCA Academy & Trina Collins of Out of Africa. Guests saw music played in response to the painters–paintings were created to the whimsical rhythms of the moment. Near the improvisational orchestra, I wandered into Artway 66 where its “Art is Everywhere III” exhibition took place. Afterwards, I visited AC Restrospective Gallery where large scale screenprints were on displayed. One artwork that I really liked was Erica King’s autographed photography of Basketball players of all time.

In Cocowalk, Rodezart.com Gallery displayed David Acevedo’s exhibition entitled “What Matters Most” David constantly experiments with multiple subjects and media. It really shows in his great masterpieces. We wanted to take advantage of “Gallery Walk” cocktails in three great restaurant. The Peacock Garden Cafe was the first stop and what a surprise that I had. I was served a good portion glass of Sangria saying the secret password “Gallery Night” to the bartender. Delicious! The restaurant itself reminded me of the old Coconut Grove. How it really was. This quaint restaurant had some nice pieces of furniture. It was a very delightful atmosphere.

Max in the Grove, a multi artist gallery featured artists such as Steve Kauffman, Peter Max and Salvadore Dali. Bringing fine art to the world. I ventured to Commodore Plaza where Frameworks featured local artist Marcelo Holzinger. Dharma Studio had the Russian artist Wicca Morenets who paints with a focus on the metaphysical and spiritual aspects of nature and of life’s mysteries. Cristina Chacon Studio Gallery featured the works of Claudia Calle, an eclectic artist who designs and photographs by instinct capturing moments.

For my last Gallery Night cocktails, I strolled into Lulu where they served me a glass of champagne and in Calamari, a glass of Prosecco was served for this distinct walk. All in all, it was a night of many discoveries and art galore that made me smile from ear to ear. Coconut Grove you have done it again. Can’t wait to come back for the next one!

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

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