An Art Gallery for the Space Challenged
Author:Lindsey ShookFearing that galleries in San Francisco might be headed towards the endangered list, Dan Kowalski took matters into his own hands by making a home for art on the walls of his Russian Hill store. Tonight he will host his first gallery show at F!ipp, a showcase of fashionable goods for petite places.
“As the economy got bad and galleries in the city started to close, I saw a real disparity in what’s available,” says Kowalski. “It seems like there’s either very high-end galleries that are somewhat unapproachable or the kind of galleries you find in Fisherman’s Wharf. We will offer affordable art in an environment of living pieces. You can see what art will look like with a chair, console or sofa.”
The artwork from SaeGgan Swanson, Anne Scallon and Rachel Meginnes follows the mission of the furniture and accessories in the rest of Kowalski’s store: It has to be fit for small spaces. Kowalski concentrated on art pieces that stand up to the heavy traffic that happens when every inch of a space is used. He also made sure the show contains both small-scale pieces and art that makes a statement (if you have room for just one painting, it has to count).
Right now, the artists are busy installing the show, but Kowalski sent us a behind-the-scenes peek at the textile works of Rachel Meginnes, just some of the things that are going to be revealed tonight.
The opening reception is from 7 to 10 p.m. tonight at 1400 Green Street.
