Thursday, May 28, 2009

Arader Galleries Hosts Botanical Watercolor Class




Arader Galleries was pleased to coordinate a botanical exhibition in honor of Mary Harden (botanical artist and educator) and her students Wednesday afternoon. Approximately 50 art enthusiasts gathered to study the splendor of Arader Galleries’ magnificent botanical collection. The exhibition included works by Georg Ehert, Baldassare Cattrani, Jacques Le Moyne, and lastly Pierre Joseph Redoute—the indisputable star.

Everyone was pleased to learn an exciting fact regarding the influence of Redoute on botanical art: Mary pointed out that stippling (technique in printmaking of carving small dots to which ink is applied to produce a greater or lesser density of ink, which simulates varying degrees of shading) is seen in numerous 19th century, hand drawn, botanical illustrations because artists drew directly from the minute study of Redoute’s hand-colored stipple engravings rather than from nature itself—therefore including unnatural elements such as stippling. The implication is clear: artists felt Redoute had depicted the elusive character of nature so exquisitely that it made drawing from nature seem obsolete!

Like most still-lifes, flowers permit artists to display refinement in their artistic methods, yet botanical artists distinguish themselves in that they examine their objects with scientific rigor while simultaneously employing sensitivity for the aesthetic means of its reproduction. Indeed, few subjects in art are more beguiling and universally admired than flower still-lifes.

Arader Galleries’ material provided the perfect platform for Mary as she found numerous examples enabling her to relay her extensive knowledge of the technical and aesthetic challenges botanical artists face, as well as history of botanical illustration. Arader Galleries would like to thank Mary and her students for joining us in our appreciation for rare works on paper. Please contact Arader Galleries at 415.788.5115 for more information on upcoming events!

Monday, May 18, 2009

2009 Designer Showcase

Cabinet of Curiosities designed by Nicole Hollis

Stairwell designed by Nicole Hollis

Garden View of Salzburg by Mathias Diesel

Natural history undeniably marks one of the standout trends from this year’s Designer Showcase. Upon entering the magnificent Georgian mansion, visitors are greeted by a monumental cabinet of curiosities—a tradition dating back to Renaissance Europe, where objects, whose categorical boundaries were yet to be defined, were showcased. It is easy to comprehend the design community’s interest in natural history as well as its lasting appeal, when considering the history of collecting. Initially, collections acted as a library, museum, and means of displaying an individual’s wealth. Indeed, these objects (on loan here from the California Academy of Sciences) invite observers to touch or study objects that are not only beautiful but also serve as remnants from the beginnings of collecting.

Along the main stairwell, butterflies and various other natural history prints hang, further indicating how living among references to the natural world can be richly fulfilling. Other examples of an adherence to natural history, include a prehistoric skeleton of a predatory marine reptile, located on the upper hallway, and pet portraiture which hangs along the stairwell leading to the penthouse.

The Study, designed by John Wheatman, achieves a timeless conformable retreat, making it one of our favorite rooms. Near the bookcase, hang lovely 18th century views of the Mirabelle Gardens in Salzburg, Austria. These engravings prove the importance of integrating art with design, for their presence contribute in large to the scholarly and leisurely atmosphere. Examples of picturesque Baroque gardens, these views are available through Arader Galleries.

Needless to say, the Designer Showcase is one of our favorite times of year. Inspiring elegant new design ideas, this event keeps us coming back year after year. Arader Galleries is pleased to offer a special catalog highlighting our natural history material. Please contact Arader Galleries at 415.788.5115 or email us to receive our Exploring the Natural World catalog.

The 2009 San Francisco Decorator Showcase is open through May 25 at 2830 Pacific Ave., San Francisco. Hours are 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Tues., Wed. and Fri.; until 7 p.m. Thurs.; 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sunday and Memorial Day. Closed Mon., except Memorial Day. $30 at the door; $25 seniors. Proceeds benefit the financial aid program at San Francisco University High School. Please call (415) 447-5830 for more information.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

2009 Los Angeles Art and Antiques Show




Arader Galleries had the pleasure of participating in the Los Angeles Art and Antique Show last month. Some of the world’s finest art and antiques dealer's gathered in the Barker Hangar at Santa Monica Air Center to display their treasures to Los Angeles’ most prominent designers and collectors. The money raised through The Antiques Show Catalogue and The Opening Night Preview Party went directly to P.S. ARTS, a non-profit organization that restores arts education programs to schools in California. Despite the adverse economic climate, approximately 5,000 – 7,000 patrons of the art and antiques world attended the show, indicating how richly fulfilling it is to live with pieces of history.

Arader Galleries would like to thank those who attended the show and we hope to see you again next year! Please contact the gallery at 415.788.5115 for more information on upcoming shows, or visit www.aradersf.com.