Town and Country Woman Opens New Home for Artists

"There's so much happening in the arts in Webster."

That was Town and Country resident Maria Gianino's conclusion as managing director of the new Webster House Galleries.

After naming a slew of Webster Groves art events and describing how the arts enrich the Webster community, Gianino shared ways she hopes Webster House Galleries can add to that trend.

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Which, Gianino said, is where the idea for Webster House Galleries started. The two homes at 7522-7526 Big Bend Boulevard in Webster Groves, zoned for commercial use, are both owned by Gianino. When the homes became vacant at about the same time, Gianino said filling the mid-market niche in the art world of Webster became something to pursue.

Gianino and her team are working to get Webster House Galleries ready for its debut with an opening reception April 5, featuring 18 artists on the local, regional and national level. Works range from $50-$2,000 and will be on display throughout the gallery at 7522 Big Bend. The April 5 reception launches a 6-week exhibition with food, drinks, live music and giveaways.

Gianino also told Patch about some upcoming exhibits WHG is working on, each focusing on a different spin on art: food, fashion and home decor. With classes and workshops also getting into swing, the neighboring component of WHG at 7526 Big Bend will primarily be available as event space.

Other ideas in the works at WHG include an outdoor public art space on the property, a mural on the side of one of the buildings, and a painting project to facelift an exterior fence as a collaboration of different artists. Gianino added a garage will be used to highlight larger pieces of work from sculptors and craftsmen.

In other words, Gianino's been busy. Gianino and her husband also own Homewatch CareGivers property down the street at 7915 Big Bend.

After being involved in the Webster community for 15 years, from rehabbing homes and managing properties, Gianino said this new project is "coming together quickly."

To submit work to be considered for upcoming art shows, send three .JPG photos to info@websterhousegalleries.com or contact the office at 314-645-2225.

Pop in on the Webster House Galleries Facebook page to find out more about upcoming events, classes and projects.

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What do you think? Are you a fan of local art, or an artist yourself? What's your favorite Webster art event? Tell us in the comments.