Gallery of the Unknown Artists

The Gallery of the Unknown Artists is a treasure amongst the stores and restaurants that makes up the community known as Downtown Hollywood.  This gallery is open to the public and easy walk to from anywhere in the district, and an absolute must would be to see their new show, “Skin Deep.”   

“Skin Deep” is a collection of 25 portraits of tattoos taken by local South Florida photographer—Bubba.  His work contains images of men that focuses on tattoos as an art form, not something bad or scary.  Anyone who has or wishes they had a tattoo will enjoy this exhibit, and will come away with a sense of intrigue as to what some people have, and where it is.  This show is not raunchy or demeaning in any way, and can be enjoyed by anyone who likes art.  Don’t think that you can leave Grandma out on the curb—bring her in!

This gallery is a unique find that is actually an asset to the creative hodge-podge that makes Downtown Hollywood unique.  Their collection contains works that are classic, Modern, Pop, and anything you could imagine.  They have paintings, chairs, and wall hangings—all in an eclectic style that makes you spend the twenty minutes looking at them.  While there, Ceci—the owner, will make you feel very much at home, answer any of your questions, and guide you into what type of pieces can best suit your life. 

Out of all of the pieces, four stood out.

Disconnected

Patrick Maxcy

30” X 24”

Mixed Media

$350

This is an amazing piece that at first glance—looks like Winona Ryder.  This would be perfect for those that feel a kinship with her spirit and what she represents.  I like that the face is not entirely painted in, and that your mind fills in the gaps.  Also, the colors behind her head are separated by a white and make her hair and head stand away from the colors.  With simple techniques, Patrick Maxcy has given dimension to a canvas. 
 

Cowpokes

Angela Farineli

18” X 24”

Acrylic

$550

This work is an almost comical representation of the dreams of the newly formed Brokeback Generation.  I find it lighthearted and fun, almost the kind you would have in a personal bar area.  In addition, the natural wood frame gives it an almost authentic feel.  However, if your home area is set up with Southwest décor or Cowboy Sheik—then this is a must have.  What makes me look longer is the fact that you can’t see half of their faces.  I just like to look at it and use my imagination.
 

Tangerine Dream

Joe Klucar

30” X 60”

Acrylic

$900 

This piece screams Jack McFarland.  I picture it as the centerpiece over the fireplace and literal centerpiece for Jack’s apartment.  He would give her a name, and talk to it every chance he got.  I can see it also in a high-rise apartment in Miami with white leather furniture or in a funky restaurant in South Beach.  I know many people that this would be perfect for.
 

¾ Nude

Erin Basset

48” X 22”

Acrylic

$175 

¾ Nude is amazing in that it is a natural woman, no breast implants, no tattoos, and is non-objectifying to woman.  If there were to be imperfections, like stretch marks, they would have been blended away.  It is a beautiful representation of the female body.  The colors that were picked almost make me feel that this was painted of an actual person, by the setting sun.  It is definitely from a perspective and crafted from a person that admires the female form. 
 

The Gallery of the Unknown Artist is definitely a great place to make a regular stop.  It can also be part of your normal routine of spending an evening in Downtown Hollywood.  Go eat at one of the 50 cafes, then stop in for some art, then go wherever for coffee and deserts or cocktails.