Alejandro Robles – Booth 1215

Miramar, Florida

https://www.alejandrorobles.cl/

Alejandro Robles is a Chilean-Spanish artist who originally trained as an architect but found his creative calling in fine art. His work features clean compositions, clear linear structures, and visually precise forms, often balancing between abstraction and figuration. Robles’s art is an ongoing exploration of structure, visual order, and expressive restraint.

Alex Lanier – Booth 905

Miami, Florida

https://www.alexlanierart.com/

Alex Lanier is a contemporary digital artist, illustrator, and fine art creator whose work fuses realism, imagination, and narrative storytelling. Lanier is best known for his richly detailed digital paintings that explore culture, history, and fantasy through a cinematic lens. Lanier’s art often highlights heroic figures, spiritual themes, and Afrofuturist influences, blending historical reverence with futuristic vision.

Antoinette Schultze – Booth 1601

Eliot, Maine

https://antoinettepschultze.com/

Antoinette Schultze’s sculptures evolve from her perception of relationships—her connection to nature, to people, and to the materials she uses. Each piece combines two, three, or more materials, relying on their interplay to convey expression and beauty. The emotions conveyed through the sculpture’s form are further enriched by the symbolic colors she selects for the glass.

Bula Barua – Booth 1401

Clearwater, Florida

https://bulagallery.com/

Bula Barua is an award-winning contemporary artist and the creator of Blown Glass on Canvas, a groundbreaking art form that fuses traditional painting with luxury materials including artist-blown glass, 24-karat gold, precious gems, and raw pigments. Her luminous masterpieces shimmer and evolve with the light, creating jeweled surfaces that invite viewers into a world of awe, beauty, and emotional connection.

Charlotte Fonne – Booth 1001

Miami Beach, Florida

https://charlottefonne.com/

With two decades as a film and documentary editor, Charlotte Fonne refines the art of visual storytelling—combining images to reveal deeper meaning. She describes her work as cinematic scenes woven into a single composite, uncovering hidden details and connections that bring memory to life. Her narrative-driven approach bridges the present with echoes of the past, drawing inspiration from Impressionist, Cubist, and Surrealist masters.

Art Business News: Introduce yourself — who are you, what is your vision?

Jason Perez: I’m a Miami-based art broker, dealer, curator, artist, DJ, entrepreneur. Working with artists, I value the relationships I build with fellow artists, collectors, and the community. Being a friend to those I work with is essential to creating a supportive and collaborative environment where creativity can thrive.

ABN: What is your background and how it fits with your art?

JP: My journey into the art world is deeply personal. I was born into the legacy of my father, Michael Perez, a renowned pop artist who established several galleries in New York. His influence was profound, and after moving to Miami, we opened Gallery 212 in Wynwood. Unfortunately, during the final year of our lease, my father suffered a stroke, which left me to navigate the challenges of continuing his work. With only $500 to my name, I took it upon myself to learn the intricacies of the art business. Over the next five years, through relentless dedication and hard work, I founded Jason Perez Art Collective. Today, we represent over 40 artists and collaborate with multiple galleries and venues across Miami, hosting numerous art events throughout the year. This background has profoundly shaped the gallery’s mission. My personal experiences have instilled a deep understanding of the challenges artists face, fueling my commitment to providing a platform that supports and elevates their work. The gallery’s history is intertwined with my own, and together, we strive to honor my father’s legacy by fostering a vibrant and inclusive art community in Miami.

ABN: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

JP: I believe my role extends beyond selecting and displaying artwork; it’s about creating meaningful connections between artists, audiences, and ideas. My philosophy centers on authentic storytelling, inclusivity, and collaboration. I strive to curate exhibitions that not only showcase art but also foster dialogue and community engagement. By prioritizing these values, I aim to create spaces where art becomes a catalyst for connection and understanding.

ABN: What artist(s) inspire you?

JP: The artists who inspire me most are Keith Haring, Salvador Dali, and my father, Michael Perez. I’m inspired by Haring’s bold, socially conscious energy and Dali’s limitless Imagination, while my father’s work as a pop artist taught me the importance of vision, discipline, and creating art that resonates with people. Together, their influence shapes how I approach creativity, storytelling, and expression in my own work.

ABN: What is the best advice you’ve received?

JP: The best advice l ever received is to work hard and then work even harder. It’s a simple reminder that real growth happens when you push past your comfort zone and give just a little more than what’s expected. That mindset has helped me stay focused, resilient, and continuously improve in everything I do.

ABN: When you are not working, where can we find you?

JP: Outside of work, I love exploring Miami on my bike, finding inspiration in nature, creating art and music, and building meaningful connections through networking and shared experiences.

ABN: Tell us about participating in Spectrum Miami 2025 — why is it important and what it means to you?

JP: I have high expectations for this year’s Spectrum Miami / Red Dot 2025. I anticipate it to be the biggest show yet, drawing a substantial turnout of art lovers and collectors. My hope is to add another award to my wall, and I’m excited about the opportunity to showcase my artists in such a dynamic and prestigious event.

Alan Goldberg has been exhibiting at Spectrum Miami for several years featuring his intriguing Mind’s Eye Photography. We wanted to know more about his approach and how he has built his business.

Art Business News: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is?

Alan Goldberg: I am Alan Goldberg and I am a photographer and photo artist. I have been involved with photography since I was just a baby. My vision is to bring the things we see in everyday life — whether they are objects used every day or stunning landscapes — into the realm of art through the use of bright colors and my perspective.

ABN: What is your background?

AG: I have always had a camera around most of my adult life. My one mentor said if you want to become good just “shoot and shoot and shoot” and so I did. In 2010, I started to take photos of bands with a shirt pocket camera, then after a few years moved up to a DSLR Nikon. During that time, I took lots of photos of mushrooms and still do. My portfolio is very diverse and includes cars, landscapes, models, musicians and flowers.

ABN: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

AG: My work philosophy is one that I am carrying on from one of my mentors, Dr. Victor P. Satinsky. He had a plaque behind his desk that read “publish or perish.” I can sit at my desk for hours every day creating. My photos talk to me about where to go or how I think they should look. By the way, there are only three photos of Dr. Satinsky on the Internet. Two are from his WWII military days and the third I am proud to say I took of him when I was in my 20’s. I go out with my camera and take a few different lenses.  I am also not afraid to experiment with infrared, filters, and unique angles.

ABN: What artist(s) inspire you?

AG: I am inspired by the great Masters. Although I have no formal education or training in the art world, I rely on the deeply implanted nature of man expressed by Carl Jung.  I study the photos of Ansel Adams and the effects artists bring to the table of civilization. I strive to create new art and not copies or variations. I strive to be different.

ABN: What is the best advice you’ve received?

AG: Not to listen to harsh critics, to be myself, and be relentless. Also, to produce a great amount of work and never accept the word “can’t” or “don’t”.

ABN: When you are not working, where can we find you?

AG: I am still teaching middle school science after having retired a few years ago. I use my photos to show my students what the rest of the world looks like or to illustrate scientific principles.

ABN: What have you done recently that enhanced you as an artist?

AG: I pulled on my earlier background of working in the garment industry and created a line of women’s cruise and casual wear. I worked in the apparel business for about 15 years while I was raising my family and before becoming a teacher.

ABN: How is exhibiting at Spectrum Miami important to you and what do you expect to achieve by exhibiting?

AG: Exhibiting at Spectrum Miami has been the largest show I have exhibited. I have met some amazing artists, publishers, and gallery owners. It has also made me strive to be a better artist. I have also had my art at galleries in the following locations Palma, Berlin, Zug, Basel, Athens, Paris, Venice, Grenada, and Dubai — but nothing beats the thrill of Spectrum Miami and being with people.

ABN: Any plans for 2026? Where will your creativity take you?

AG: Creativity has no bounds!  It may at times be blocked at times, but I have always had periods of my greatest creativity after a break up of a relationship. Having just gotten divorced, I use the words of my ex-wife used to demean my art to drive me on to further heights. “And what are you going to do with all your photos?” has given me motivation to expand my success. I have been a part of podcast interviews, publications, and photographing musical talent, and have been commissioned to create art from my photos of them.

Two musicians I have worked with, Tito Puente Jr. and Artimus Pyle of Lynryd Skynyrd, are both now good friends — and my photos of them are for sale.

To learn more about Alan Goldberg and Mind’s Eye Photos, please visit:

https://limitededitionsbyalan.com/

Alan’s Women’s Apparel Collection

https://www.legaleriste.com/en/alan.goldberg

Follow Alan at https://www.instagram.com/mindseyephotos1953/

All photos courtesy of the artist Alan Goldberg.

We were intrigued with the story behind JDR Atelier when we first met them at Spectrum Miami 2023. Basically, three artists coming together to find synergy and strength in building a business together. We thought it was a story our readers would love to read and use it to inspire their own opportunities.

Art Business News: Give us an overview. Tell us about JDR Atelier, how it started, and your vision.

JDR Atelier: Having first met at an Art Fair in March 2022, Jessica de Vreeze, Daniel Marin, and Romi Myers quickly bonded over shared experiences as Miami-based artists. With diverse backgrounds and a mutual passion for growth and success in the art world, they forged a strong connection. By Spring 2023, a casual reunion evolved into an inspiring brainstorming session, sparking the idea of creating a collaborative artist collective. Drawing from each of their unique strengths and perspectives, they envisioned a shared platform to support and elevate not only each others’ creative journeys, but also the potential creative journey of other local talent. In December 2023, their vision became a reality as JDR Atelier made its highly anticipated debut at Spectrum Miami.

JDR Atelier is guided by three core principles: fueling creativity with passion, sharing life experience and representation through art, and pushing visual boundaries through innovation.

ABN: Your Collective focuses on three artists. Tell us a little about each of them and how the Collective benefits each of them. 

JDR: As a Miami-based collective, JDR Atelier is deeply committed to nurturing the city’s creative ecosystem. Having received positive feedback and community support since their debut in 2023, the co-founders invited Andre Salas to join the Collective roster for the first time this year. The co-founders’ strengths lie behind each of their skillsets acquired over the years. Jessica is a former attorney, Daniel is a public relations guru, and Romi’s expertise focuses on strategic brand positioning and tech innovation. “We utilize on our former strengths in order to help our Collective grow at a healthy and sustainable pace that works for all of us, while giving local Miami talent a voice for representation. Our goal is to create opportunities to share what it means to be from Miami – while engaging with the artwork itself, but also with amplifying the incredible talent that makes our city so incredibly unique”, says Romi Myers.

Andre Salas is a self-taught Miami-based artist whose practice is fueled by intuition and an irrepressible urge to create. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and of Mexican heritage, he draws inspiration from the rhythms of his daily life. Andre experiments with acrylics, pastels, and unconventional materials to produce works that balance the raw energy of neo-expressionism with the fluidity of abstraction. His bold use of color, texture, and composition reflects a deeply personal way of interpreting the world around him. As a fresh voice in the Miami art scene, Andre aims to spark meaningful dialogue and forge genuine connections with those who engage and collect his body of work.

Working under the conceptual moniker Department M, Daniel Marin creates paintings that merge pop culture, abstraction, street art, carpentry, and décollage into colorful, surreal snapshots in time. Drawing imagery from magazines, comic books, newspapers, and other media, Marin blends visual fragments to construct layered, multidimensional works. His process—combining silk-screening, freehand painting, hand-cut stenciling, and collage—reflects both patience and play, resulting in striking compositions that feel at once familiar and unexpected. A self-taught Cuban-American artist from Miami, Daniel has works in private collections across the U.S., Latin America, and Europe. His pieces often reveal humor and tension beneath the surface, inviting viewers to unravel the stories hidden within.

Born in São Paulo, Brazil, with Japanese and Italian heritage, Romi Myers draws inspiration from the Superflat Movement, infusing her work with bold colors and striking, cartoon-like imagery. Her fascination with augmented reality, coupled with her advocacy for sustainability and environmental awareness, expands her practice into the delicate balance between physical and digital spaces. Guided by her synesthesia, she embeds hidden messages that invite viewers to look beyond the surface. Through this interplay of sensory experiences, Romi explores how art can manipulate perception, foster empathy, and spark connection—while her playful titles and tongue-in-cheek humor reveal the beauty and complexity of the human condition. As Romi’s collectors circle continues to rapidly grow both nationally and internationally, some of her work can be found at Wynwood Kollective, located in the world renowned Wynwood Art District in Miami, FL.

ABN: You’re coming back to Spectrum Miami — what’s new? What can collectors expect to see? 

JDR: First and foremost, as saddened as we were that Jessica was unable to participate this year, JDR Atelier is very excited to welcome Andre Salas into their roster! What collectors can expect is to experience art pieces that are engaging in unexpected ways, some of which bridge between physical and digital realms, including a secret virtual art gallery that can be visited from anywhere in the globe, giving those who may not be able to physically attend the event, an opportunity to see more available works for purchase. Access to the Secret Virtual Art Gallery will be made available not only during Spectrum Miami, but also accessible on JDR Atelier’s website from December 3 – 31, 2025.

ABN: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2025 with JDR Atelier mean to each of you?

JDR: More than just another Miami Art Week stop, Spectrum Miami is an opportunity for celebration of up and coming local talent, ensuring that emerging voices from Miami share the same stage as international headliners.

“It means a lot to me. It is the few days out of the year where emerging artists like me  get the chance to connect with people who are passionate and interested in art.” – Andre Salas

“Being given the opportunity to represent Miami at a global scale during one of the largest art weeks in the US, is a humbling experience. A decade ago, I used to be paid to fly out from Seattle to attend Spectrum Miami and Miami Art Week for design inspiration, but now I have a chance to inspire others instead. It is something I am beyond grateful for at every event.” – Romi Myers

“Unlike the rest of the year when we’re launching pop-up shows and trying to get people to come out to see our newest works, Miami Art Week is the one time a year where the masses seek out art and artists alike to get inspired. Spectrum Miami is one of those stand-out fairs where attendees know they can connect with both local and international talent and discover the undiscovered for themselves.” – Daniel Marin

About JDR Atelier

Having first met at Superfine Miami in March 2022, Jessica de Vreeze, Daniel Marin, and Romi Myers quickly bonded over their shared experiences as Miami-based artists. With diverse backgrounds and a mutual passion for growth and success in the art world, they forged a strong connection. By spring 2023, a casual reunion evolved into an inspiring brainstorming session, sparking the idea of a collaborative artist collective. Drawing on their unique talents and perspectives, they envisioned a shared platform to support and elevate one another’s creative journeys.

In December 2023, their vision became reality as JDR Atelier made its highly anticipated debut at Spectrum Miami. This marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the art world—one destined to leave a lasting impression. As the saying goes, the rest is art history.

Connect with them:

Email: hello@jdratelier.com

Follow: @JDR_Atelier

We first discovered Jordan Barker at this year’s Artexpo New York, where his vibrant energy and undeniable talent immediately stood out. His passion for creating and sharing his art is infectious, and his work carries a rare blend of originality and approachability.

Meet the artist who’s capturing hearts and sparking conversations — Jordan Barker.

ABN: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is

Jordan Barker: I’m Jordan Barker, a self-taught mixed media artist and entrepreneur. I discovered my artistic talent during Covid at a time when we were forced into isolation. It was then that I realized how important touch is to human connection, which is why I started painting with a lot of texture to reintroduce the sensations of touch back into my life. My vision as an artist is to bridge the gap between emotion and material — to create pieces that you don’t just look at but feel. Through layering and texture, I want my work to remind people of the power of presence, even in moments of quiet chaos. And YES, they can touch the artwork!!

ABN: What is your background?

JB: I come from an entrepreneurial background, which has always pushed me to build things from the ground up and follow my instincts. I didn’t go to art school, and I don’t know how to draw — my education came from experimentation and curiosity. During Covid, I began layering different materials and mediums as a form of mindfulness and discovered that art could be a language for what I was feeling. Since then, I’ve developed a large body of abstract, textural works that have been featured on NY1, Yahoo! Finance, The Knockturnal, and Fractyll Magazine and private collections across the U.S.

ABN: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

JB: My philosophy is that creation should be a practice of presence. Every piece I make is an exercise in letting go of control, overcoming self-doubt, and trusting the creative process.  I allow the materials to guide me and I see the act of layering as symbolic: it mirrors how we build emotional depth as people. That mindset keeps my work grounded and meditative, even when the surface looks chaotic or raw.

ABN: What artist(s) inspire you?

JB: Initially I would say that no artists inspire me as my work comes from within, but I recently had the pleasure of visiting Robert Nava’s studio and speaking with him about his creative process. Entering his space was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in the art world. The sheer magnitude of his paintings and intricacies in the details of how he uses different materials, brush strokes, and even depth of colors was mind blowing.  His work is playful and elementary, yet highly complex at the same time and his backstory is even more inspiring. Since meeting with him, I have been motivated to start incorporating more oils into my paintings, which I absolutely love.

ABN: What is the best advice you’ve received?

JB: The best advice I’ve received is to keep creating even when it doesn’t make sense yet. Early on, I used to overthink what each piece “should” be, but I’ve learned that consistency and trust in your process reveal the meaning over time. That lesson has shaped both my art and how I move through life.

ABN: When you are not working, where can we find you?

JB: When I’m not in the studio, you can usually find me working on my other passion, commercial real estate. I love networking, raising capital for real estate investments, and also helping

ABN: What have you done recently that enhanced you as an artist?

JB: Recently, I’ve been experimenting with oils. I love both the fluidity of oil sticks as well as the depth of color. Using oils has forced me to think more about the placement of paint as it takes much longer to dry than acrylic and aerosol. In addition, I’ve been working with a lot more interior designers and architects who not only like my work, but also appreciate the presentation of it which consists of staged photos, timelapse videos of the creation of each piece and high-quality videos of the paintings allowing the customer to view the depth and texture that otherwise can’t be seen in a photograph.

ABN: Tell us about 2025 and beyond? Where will your creativity take you?

JB: 2025 has been a GREAT year!  I’ve not only expanded my body of work but also garnered several celebrity collectors and followers. My social media presence continues to grow and because of that, I have been selling more artwork and gaining the attention of art dealers, interior designers, and collectors. As I continue down this path, I am excited to see what doors this opens as I continue to create work that reminds people to slow down, touch, and feel — in every sense of the word.

__________________________

Jordan Barker is an entrepreneur and self-taught mixed media artist. It was during Covid when we were forced into isolation, that Jordan realized how important touch is to the human connection. By layering different materials and mediums on canvases, Jordan began what is now an extensive body of large-scale abstract expressionist-style pieces. He was inspired to create art as a way to reintroduce these textures and sensations back into his life, which provided him with a sense of presence and calm amidst what felt like quiet chaos. Each piece of art is a practice of mindfulness that Jordan couldn’t achieve in any other way during this long period of isolation.

Jordan has since created what is now an impressive body of work, with pieces already incorporated into a number of private collections around New York City. Jordan also has a passion for giving back and has invested in and advised several startups with social missions he currently is on the Advisory Counsel for the Citizen’s Committee for New York City.

https://www.instagram.com/jordanbarkerart/

In a recent conversation with Rami and Karyn Rotkopf, founders and owners of Blue Gallery in Delray Beach, Florida, we were reminded of the captivating minimalist landscapes created by Sveta Esser. Her innovative style, known as Pixelism, has become highly collectible and will be featured in Blue Gallery’s 20th Anniversary Celebration coming March 2026.

Read on to discover more about Esser and her remarkable work.

ABN: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is?

Sveta Esser: I was born in Ukraine in 1975 and studied art at the Yekaterinburg College of Art, located in a picturesque mountain region known for its natural beauty. After my initial degree in Russia, I did a student exchange program in Europe, where I pursued my second art degree.
In 1996, at the age of 20, I moved to Israel with my husband, Alex Pauker, who is also an artist.
Alongside my formal training, I gained professional experience working as an illustrator and as a creative consultant for a publishing house in an artists’ village near Haifa. During this time, I explored a variety of painting techniques and quickly discovered a passion for the rich, textural quality of palette knife painting. I drew inspiration from the stunning landscapes and rural scenes of Israel and Tuscany, which continue to influence my work today.

ABN: What is your background?

SE: As an artist in today’s world, I work in a unique technique that I call Pixelism. My artwork immediately captivates the viewer with vibrant colors and a truly original approach to composition. The core of my method is that each painting consists of numerous squares and pixels, and each one of them possesses its own unique shade, collectively creating a stunning visual effect.
My technique is not just a style. For me, Pixelism is a metaphor for life and integration: every single pixel is important and unique, but only together do they form a complete, harmonious picture. This is a principle I carry over into my social work as well.

I believe my creations exemplify innovative thinking that is highly relevant in the modern artistic context. For me, art is not an escape from reality, but a way to transform it. I use my brush and palette knife to build bridges—between cultures, between ideas, and between people. This commitment allows me to be one of the prominent figures in today’s art world.

ABN: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

SE: My goal is not simply to create a beautiful object, but to provoke a dialogue. I want my work to generate an emotional resonance and make the viewer reflect on how we perceive the world—both from a distance and up close.

Upon closer inspection, viewers can uncover hidden details that only become fully visible from a certain distance away from the canvas. This interactive approach to art fosters a unique connection between the viewer and the artwork.

ABN: What artist(s) inspire you?

SE: In my creative process, I skillfully blend several major influences. I draw inspiration from Surrealism, paying homage to masters like Salvador Dalí, as well as from abstraction in the spirit of Gerhard Richter. Furthermore, my pieces clearly reflect the influence of Pop Art, famously represented by Andy Warhol, mirroring contemporary society and its perception of art.

ABN: What is the best advice you’ve received?

SE: Stay true to what draws you to create — your instincts, your obsessions, your style. Trends change fast, but your voice is what lasts. Show up. Even if it’s a bad day in the studio. Creativity builds with momentum, not waiting for inspiration to strike. Art is personal, but the journey doesn’t need to be lonely. Surround yourself with other artists — for feedback, support. Be generous in return.

ABN: When you are not working, where can we find you?

SE: My husband and I currently live in Oranienburg, a suburb of Berlin, Germany. In our art studio, we launched an initiative in collaboration with the City of Oranienburg called “Welcome to Oranienburg.” Through this program, we host joint art classes for children from Ukraine and Germany. Together, we create artwork in a shared, supportive space. It’s a delicate and meaningful endeavor — our goal is to help restore a piece of the childhood that some of these children have lost, easing their arrival and offering support as they navigate a range of challenges. Since April 2025, I serve as the chairwoman of the board.

ABN: Any plans for 2026? Where will your creativity take you?

SE: My husband, Alex Pauker and I will participate in a Group Exhibition in the USA. It will be the 20 year Anniversary Exhibition of Blue Gallery in in Delray Beach, Florida (March 21-22, 2026).

About Blue Gallery

Mixing sophisticated flare with contemporary art, Blue Gallery features original collections of internationally-acclaimed artists painting landscapes, abstracts, semi-realistic, realistic and figurative styles. Founder/owner, Rami Rotkopf, grew up in the family art business in Tel Aviv, Israel. Extremely familiar and immersed with the kind of adrenaline buzz that is so typical of the atmosphere present in the art industry, Rotkopf adeptly infuses this energy into his Blue Gallery. He reflects a lifetime of gallery experience and exposure to art and is committed to discovering and exposing the work of extremely talented artists. He combines his knowledge and vision, with his passion for the arts, and represents some of the most well-defined and celebrated contemporary artists of today.

 

Learn More about Sveta Esser https://www.bluefineart.com/artist/sveta-esser

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluefineart/

https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17976933421256356/

With its sun-soaked beaches, lush parks, and sparkling waterfront, San Diego has long been a city that inspires creativity. Beyond the postcard-perfect scenery lies a thriving art scene — one filled with world-class museums, contemporary galleries, and an ever-growing community of artists and collectors.

Amid this vibrant coastal culture stands Lorna York, founder and owner of Madison Gallery, whose vision and dedication have helped shape San Diego’s reputation as a destination for fine art. We had the pleasure of checking in with Lorna to explore what it takes to create — and sustain — a successful gallery in this dynamic city.

ABN: Lorna, for readers who may not yet know you – can you share a bit about your background and how Madison Gallery came to be?

Lorna York: I opened Madison Gallery over 20 years ago with a simple conviction that world-class contemporary art should be accessible beyond the usual cultural capitals. What began as a small coastal gallery in San Diego has grown into a $50 million business and one of Southern California’s leading contemporary art destinations — built entirely from the ground up. I started Madison Gallery with no outside investors, just a deep belief in the artists I represent and a desire to create meaningful cultural dialogue in San Diego.

When I first opened Madison Gallery, people questioned whether a high-end contemporary program could thrive outside of main cultural capitals. Two decades later, we’re seeing collectors fly in from across the country and media comparing our exhibits to those in New York and LA. That evolution affirms what I’ve always believed – that great art transcends geography.

ABN: What was the driving vision behind the gallery, and how has that evolved over time?

LY: From the beginning, Madison Gallery has been guided by the idea that art is an experience – not just an object. Our collectors are drawn to the stories, the emotional resonance, and the cultural relevance behind the work. Today’s generation of collectors is less interested in gatekeeping or elitism; they want to be invited into a narrative. So we create that context – helping them connect intellectually and personally with the artists.

Over the years, our mission has expanded from representing a roster of exceptional contemporary artists to truly shaping the region’s cultural landscape. We’re proud to be among the few galleries in San Diego County introducing international artists of the caliber typically seen in New York or Los Angeles — artists like RETNA and Radenko Milak — to this market.

ABN: What sets Madison Gallery apart from other contemporary art galleries?

LY: We’re a thriving, independent gallery at a time when headlines about major galleries shuttering are increasingly common. I think our longevity stems from two things: our relationships and our perspective. We take an extremely personal, long-view approach to every artist and collector we work with. That means guiding clients through the narrative and emotional layers of the art they live with, while giving our artists the platform and resources to develop museum-level exhibitions. And we’ve remained women-owned and women-lead, which brings a different energy to how we do business: relational, intuitive, but also strategic and resilient. We’ve come a long way in what is considered a male-dominated field — and in a shrinking market, no less.

ABN: How would you describe your curatorial philosophy?

LY: I’m drawn to art that invites people to connect – with themselves, with others, or something bigger. Whether it’s the powerful scriptural abstraction of RETNA’s recent exhibit, Love Letter | Carta De Amor, or the profound watercolors in Radenko Milak’s current exhibit, Four Seasons Interrupted, we’re always looking for work that evokes connection and cultural dialogue. Both artists, along with the range of mid-career artists we represent, embody what I consider Madison Gallery’s essence: they tell stories that transcend language and geography, reminding us that art remains one of our most universal forms of connection.

ABN: How do you see the role of the gallerist evolving, especially in a changing art economy?

LY: Gallerists today must be translators – not just sellers. We’re bridging artists and audiences across continents, platforms, and generations. At Madison Gallery, we think in terms of legacy: how are we future-proofing our artists’ careers, and how are we contributing to a richer, more inclusive art ecosystem here in San Diego? That means strategic partnerships, international art-fair participation, and collector education — but also, creating space for meaningful conversation.

ABN: What’s next for you and Madison Gallery?

LY: We just wrapped up a major exhibit with RETNA and now we’re unveiling Radenko Milak’s Four Seasons Interrupted, on view now through December 15th at our gallery. This will be Milak’s second solo exhibit with us and we’re excited to welcome him back to our gallery to showcase his latest body of work, which grapples with the fragility of nature and time.

Looking ahead, we’re expanding our presence internationally, including our third presentation at Zona Maco in Mexico City next year. I also look forward to showcasing my artists again at Art Dusseldorf and Istanbul Art Fair. For me, it’s about continuing to build bridges between artists, collectors, and cultures.

ABN: Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring gallerists or collectors?

LY: Lead with curiosity and integrity. Build relationships first, the sales will follow. If you lean into your vision and stay open, engaged, and honest, you’ll build something that lasts.

LORNA YORK BIO
Lorna York is the founder and owner of Madison Gallery in Solana Beach, California. Since opening the gallery in 2001, she has built it into a leading destination for contemporary art, introducing globally renowned artists to Southern California audiences through innovative, immersive exhibitions. With a global perspective and a passion for connecting art, culture, and travel, Lorna has positioned Madison Gallery as a destination for personalized one-on-one curatorial and educational experiences in the arts. When she’s not curating exhibitions, Lorna is often exploring the world’s art capitals — always in search of new inspirations to share with her collectors and community.

Kat Ryals first welcomed me into her home with open and glitter littered arms. Shiny scraps of fabric, half-completed art projects, power tools, hot glue guns, and taxidermied animals are the building blocks of this artist’s interior life. I was suddenly at the epicenter of a fever dream decked in gold fringe – I couldn’t be more excited to see more.

Raised in suburban Arkansas and then Cajun Louisiana, Ryals’ artistic practice was shaped by time spent rummaging through thrift stores, daydreaming in ornate Catholic churches, and wandering through forests, swamps, and gardens on her family’s farm. Along the way, she began looking closely at the world and collecting those small things which others might ignore. Small things like the gold trim of a priest’s robes, or baby frogs lost in the bayou, or even discarded playing dice.

Kat takes me downstairs to her studio where she is hard at work creating her Rugs series. These hand-made collages hang upright on her studio wall being held together by pins and hot glue. It’s more delicate than I had imagined, re-affirming the sense that these works of art are ephemeral and representative of a moment in time.

In the past, horror vacui, or the fear of emptiness, was often employed in art and was considered sacred and highly regarded. Today, minimalism represents refinement and luxury while maximalism is unrefined and cheap. Ryals’ Rugs series highlights the casino floor, the detrital glory of belongings lost, and gambling paraphernalia hidden. The selection of collage materials is informed by the classic iconography of Las Vegas, such as spas, pools, steakhouses, buffets, hotel lobbies, casino floors, and wedding chapels. Ryals incorporates poker chips, playing cards, bra straps, peacock feathers and much more into the shape of a seventeenth century Savonnerie French rug pattern. The resulting image is photographed with a high-resolution camera and printed mechanically onto a velvet rug. What many would consider trash, is transformed to create the illusion of luxury. The rugs reference what is, in today’s fast fashion world, considered unattainable, the opulence of a hand-crafted, hand-woven textile wall hanging or rug.

As I’m looking at the collage she has mounted to the wall, Kat turns to ask: Have you seen the movie Showgirls?”

Paul Verhoeven’s iconic film is a widely contested masterpiece of shit, narrating the kitsch of the American dream. When it was released in 1995, the film was considered a flop. It wasn’t until Queer culture adopted the film as bad enough to be good, that the movie crossed over into being a cult classic. Told from the perspective of a wannabe ‘Vegas Showgirl’ – Nomi Malone is looking for fame and rhinestone-studded fortune and she won’t stop until she has it! She and the other dancers are shallow, scandalously thin, and overtly homo-erotic. The dancing is oddly wild, the dialogue is deceptively vapid, and the acting is over-the-top – a perfect storm of terrible turned fabulous.

The film is just one of the many inspirations behind Showroom Dynasty, on view at 5-50 Gallery September 6 – October 19. Curated by Lauren Hirshfield, the show invites viewers to engage with Ryals’ probing exploration of value, desire, materiality, and cultural hierarchy. What has arisen out of American post-capitalism is an aesthetic most notably manifest along the neon streets of Las Vegas. There, as Dave Hickey writes in his work, Air Guitar, is where culture resides – places designed to keep consumers hopelessly spending under the illusion of attaining or becoming something more. Inspired by the gold filigree and ornate environments of a bygone era when luxury was a privilege reserved for a select few, Vegas is a mimicry of opulence. In Norman Klein’s The Vatican to Vegas, she puts into conversation these ideas of Baroque ornate aesthetic and the kitsch of Vegas interiors. Both spaces are environments designed to manipulate perception and create a specific emotional response, whether in grand Baroque palaces or the modern casino floor. Caesar’s Palace, for example, is a refuge for those hard-working Americans who put their lives in the hands of the American Dream in the hopes of one day ‘making it big’. For a meager sum, the same American can live like a king for a day, if only he doesn’t look too closely.

Through sculpture, lens-based work, textile art, and site-specific installations, she emulates material culture and organic artifacts. Often replicating objects that symbolize high status, like large and ornate tapestries or rugs, garments, and houseplants. She directly engages with perceptions of authenticity, taste and hierarchy. Her practice examines how cultural currencies shape personal desire, reinforcing systems of social and environmental disparity.

There is a lot to know about Kat Ryals, a woman raised in Arkansas with Cajun roots, a love for Las Vegas, and now a settled veteran of the art world living in Brooklyn. While talking to Kat about her work, she references a wide range of visual influences, e.g., the palatial interiors of eighteenth-century Europe, the swamps of Louisiana, her own wedding in Las Vegas. The common thread, however, comes from Kat’s early interest in anthropology, and trying to find the locus of hope, desire, and value. Ryals mentions that one of her favorites in her Rugs series is In This World You’re a God, because it juxtaposes Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas and the swamp creatures from her days in Acadiana. The frogs featured in this rug’s design, indeed refer to Kat’s time in Acadiana, but also the French delicacy ‘cuisses de grenouilles’ or ‘Frogs Legs’. A food considered for the lower class in the American South, is a delicacy for the French ruling class. Symbols of status and luxury are only ever held in the eye of the beholder.

As I’m reluctantly leaving, Kat hands me stacks of books and smaller print outs for me to fumble through and gain a better understanding of her new series. I vow to re-watch Showgirls in the very near future and tell her all about it. She promises I’ll be able to look after her small Pomeranian dog, Ethel sometime very soon. I can tell that as I’m saying goodbye to her, Kat is already thinking about the composition of the collage downstairs and whether to include those pieces of faux fur or that pink silk…. just as Las Vegas is a place that can only ever play itself, so too Kat Ryals can only ever play herself.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Paul D. Wegner, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and accomplished artist who passed away on July 20, 2025, in his California home at the age of 74.

Paul was born in New York and raised in the state of Virginia where he was an exceptional athlete in wrestling and football at Washington Lee High School in Virginia. When a back injury ended his first choice career in athletics, he moved to California where he began studying sculpting as a sculptor’s apprentice.

A commission by the National Geographic Society lead Wegner to develop his trademark fragmentation style. His life-size sculptures have been commissioned by and placed in museum and state collections, including depictions of George and Marth Washington for the Mount Vernon Museum, An American Bald Eagle for the Grand Coulee Dam in Washington State, a bust of Admiral Rickover for the U.S. Naval Academy in Maryland, among others.

The most notable expression of Wegner’s style was in his bronze depictions of classical jazz and blues musicians — each presenting both the motion and emotion of their performance. His music series features sculptures of notables such as Billie Holiday, Carlos Santana, Pete Fountain, Louis Armstrong, and John Lee Hooker. He was a two-time recipient of the Keeping the Blues Alive award presented by The Blues Foundation.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Sarah. He also leaves behind his loving children, son Casey, daughter Kimberly, and daughter-in-law Laura, as well as his cherished grandchildren, Jacob, and Taylor, all of whom brought joy and pride to his life.

He will be greatly missed. And we know his legacy will live on through his artwork.

Contemporary landscape artist Roberto Ugalde possesses what can only be described as an alchemical gift—the ability to transform simple observations of nature into explosive symphonies of light and color. Born in Rio Blanco (White River), a small village nestled in the Sierra Madre mountain range of Queretaro, Mexico, Ugalde’s artistic vision was shaped by the panoramic vistas, flowing rivers, and abundant wildlife surrounding his childhood home.

“Every time I look around me, I see this beautiful world full of colors and forms, and my first impulse is to transform my vision and emotions in a way that connects and reconnects people to Nature,” Ugalde reflects. This profound connection to the natural world manifests most powerfully in his signature subject: aspen trees and the ethereal dance of light through their leaves and trunks.

A friend once captured the essence of Ugalde’s mastery by invoking the words of poet Mary Oliver: “Roberto has the most gifted way of capturing the trees as they turn their own bodies into pillars of light. At times, it blows my mind, because the way the light filters into his art. . . it’s like I’m standing in a photograph of an aspen grove.”

Fusion of Classical Training and Revolutionary Technique

Ugalde’s artistic foundation was built through classical training at the Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes (INBA) in Queretaro, Mexico, where he mastered old masters’ techniques. However, his artistic evolution has taken a dramatically innovative turn, incorporating what he describes as “the Jackson Pollock technique of dropping, throwing, and applying industrial oil-based paint with a palette knife on a horizontal position over a wood panel on top of a spinning table.”

This unique approach allows Ugalde to create what critics describe as paintings that “explode like the Big Bang, some from the center out, some in dense grids of trees.” Once the initial paint application is dry, he meticulously touches up colors and features, breathing life and luminosity into each piece. The result is artwork that opens dimensions previously unexperienced, inviting viewers into immersive natural worlds that pulse with organic energy.

From Mexico to the American Southwest

Ugalde’s journey from the Sierra Madre mountains to becoming a celebrated landscape artist in the American Southwest represents more than geographic migration—it’s an artistic pilgrimage that has expanded his palette of inspiration. His extensive catalog at Sorrel Sky Gallery showcases this evolution, featuring works that capture the dramatic landscapes of Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas with the same reverence he once reserved for his native Mexican mountains.

From the iconic “Maroon Bells Splendor” series to intimate studies like “Cherry Blossoms” and “Cardinal Beauty,” Ugalde’s work demonstrates a remarkable range while maintaining his signature ability to capture the soul of each landscape. His paintings of Wilson Peak, Telluride, and the Pedernales River reveal an artist who doesn’t simply document scenery but rather channels the essential spirit of place through color and light.

A Democratic Approach to Beauty

What sets Ugalde apart in the contemporary landscape art world is his democratic vision of natural beauty. Whether painting the grandeur of Colorado’s Maroon Bells or the subtle charm of Texas wildflowers, he approaches each subject with equal reverence and technical mastery. His works range from intimate 16″ x 12″ studies to commanding 48″ x 48″ statements, yet each carries the same emotional weight and visual impact.

As an artist who “expresses the essence of his subjects in a way that draws the viewer into the painting.” Ugalde masters “the use of oils in an impressionistic manner, which breathes life into his landscapes.” This technical prowess, combined with his innovative application methods, creates paintings that seem to generate their own internal light source.

Finding Home at Sorrel Sky Gallery

Ugalde’s partnership with Sorrel Sky Gallery represents a natural convergence of artistic vision and gallery philosophy. The extensive collection of his works available through the gallery demonstrates not only his prolific output but also the strong collector demand for his distinctive style. From early works that established his reputation to his latest explorations of light and form, the gallery provides a comprehensive view of an artist at the height of his creative powers.

The gallery’s commitment to showcasing artists who push boundaries while maintaining deep connections to place and tradition aligns perfectly with Ugalde’s artistic mission. His ability to make viewers feel as though they are standing within his painted landscapes speaks to both technical mastery and spiritual connection with his subjects.

Roberto Ugalde’s artistic journey from the Sierra Madre mountains to the galleries of Santa Fe represents the evolution of an artist who has never lost sight of his fundamental mission: to reconnect people with the transformative power of nature through the alchemy of paint and light. In an age of digital distraction, his paintings serve as luminous reminders of the world’s enduring capacity to inspire wonder through simple observation and profound artistic interpretation.

Each Ugalde painting invites viewers to step out of their ordinary perception and into a world where trees become pillars of light, where every brushstroke carries the memory of mountain air, and where the boundary between observation and transcendence dissolves in brilliant cascades of color.

For more information about Roberto Ugalde:
https://sorrelsky.com/collections/roberto-ugalde
All images are courtesy of Roberto Ugalde for Sorrel Sky Gallery.