Featured Gallery:

Graffiti Art
at The Jewelry Studio

by Monte Fraser
369 E. Main Street, Ashland OR 97520 (541) 488-1761

Early last summer, as the Jewelry Studio was preparing to move to its new location at 369 E. Main, my wife, Teresa, and I were traveling through Phoenix and saw a graffiti mural on the side of a building along Highway 99. We had been looking for something unusual to go along with the new gallery we were planning and thought graffiti would make a great show in our new space.

After a little investigative work, we tracked down the graffiti artists, Toby and Ricardo. Even though the two had little experience outside of a couple murals and no portfolio, the young men presented themselves professionally and showed a true passion for art, so we decided to pursue a show with them for February.

By January, we had not heard again from the artists and started to make back-up plans. Just as we were about to give up hope, Toby called and asked when he should bring his pieces by. We said, "well, now would be a good time."

I don't know exactly what I was expecting when I first saw their work. I guess I was thinking something along the lines of what we see spray painted on the backs of buildings all over town. But the art they brought into the store is truly inspiring. What they do with a spray can is amazing. With no formal training, they have a wonderful grasp of composition and color. Ricardo is taking his art to the next level by attending an art college in Portland. If Toby becomes more serious about cultivating his natural talent, he could accomplish incredible things.

Teresa and I suggest you take the time to think outside the box and see graffiti as the unique art form that it is.

The Graffiti Art show will be up through the middle of February at the Jewelry Studio at 369 E. Main Street. We look forward to seeing you.

The Jewelry Studio is open Thursday through Monday, 10:00 to 6:00 each day, except Sunday, 11:00 to 5:00, or by appointment on Tuesday and Wednesday. 541.488.1761.