Sandra McCullough: Artist, Gallery Owner
posted on January 21 2008 by elCID
Studio + Gallery = creative environment for artists to grow
Sandra McCullough is the owner of Sea Breeze Art Gallery & Studios, in Ventura, California. This is not your typical gallery, where work is displayed and sold, and the only person you might meet is the gallery owner or assistant. Sea Breeze Art Gallery & Studios, as the name implies, is also an art studio, where over 15 artists work and play, creating an atmosphere of support, friendship, and great works of art.
One of the greatest barriers in an artist's career is support, and that's why the gallery and studio works. Instead of working in an isolated studio where art only sees the light of day when complete, this interesting space allows other artists to view works in progress, lending support through the entire process. Sandra muses, "It's like a playground for artists, we all do great work here individually, but the support structure around everyone allows the each individual artist to reach greater heights."
Sandra grew up in Santa Monica California. In 1993 she moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico to further her artistic career. Living in Santa Fe helped her to experience tremendous creative growth that she believes was due to the pervasiveness of Art in Santa Fe, as art is everywhere there. Sandra says, "It's within the tri-cultures that co-exist there, the landscape, the architecture, and the people. Everywhere my eye landed was some wonderful artistic delight."
In 2003, Sandra returned to California to the ocean, her family and friends. Santa Monica had become too congested for her so she came to Ventura. She says about her experience, "I was driving around with a friend who was showing me different areas in Ventura and we drove up Front Street. At one point I got out of the car, walked around and it felt magical to me. Then I turned the corner on Laurel Street and there was a ‘For Rent’ sign on a building. In a heartbeat I saw the vision of an art gallery and studio spaces. ‘Great,’ I thought, ‘I’m glad you didn’t ask me to build an Ark -- an Art Gallery I may be able to do. At the time, it was financially impossible, so I told the universe, ‘You want me to this I will - but I will need help. Two days later I was sharing my vision with a friend, and she said, ‘I will loan you the money to start." Thus began Sea Breeze Art Gallery & Studios.
The artwork of the resident artists reflects the inspired atmosphere at Sea Breeze. All experience and create in a very supportive environment. The city of Ventura has shown a great appreciation for fine art and its purchasing capabilities for the creative expression grows. Sea Breeze Art Gallery continues to appreciate all its collectors and supporters.
Why is this studio and the Sandra's vision so important? Simple; it encourages artists strive for what they wish to become, in an environment that is encouraging. Although this model for a working studio and gallery is rare, it shouldn't be. Many cities across the world would benefit from a similar setup. Sandra says, "Some artists, especially new ones, find great comfort in being a part of something. This environment allows them to explore their artistic talent while learning, leaning and getting love from others. Careers flourish here."
For more information about Sandra McCullough and her art click here.
For more information about the Sea Breeze Art Gallery & Studios click here.
