Estel Gallery
Content is from the site's 2008 archived pages.
Yelpers report this location has closed
Dedicated to the introduction of exceptional new and emerging contemporary artists whose work is innovative, stimulating, and moving.
location 115 rosa l. parks blvd. (formerly 8th ave north), nashville, tn 37203
hours tue - fri: 11am - 4pm sat: noon - 3pm or by appointment
phone 615.251.8997
The Building
Estel Gallery's building at 115 Rosa L Parks Blvd (formerly 8th Ave. N) was built in 1910. Its distinct facade and interior design provided a perfect backdrop for the contemporary art it housed, blending modern aesthetics with historical significance. Over the years the building has housed a plethora of businesses at the street level including barbershops, phonograph stores, grocery markets, cafes, and store -- front ministries. In Nashville, the address is perhaps best known as the location of Jew's Hatters (1982 -1993). The second floor served as furnished rooms for let and then as a hotel until 1954. When the building was acquired by its current owners, it was slated for demolition. However, instead, a renovation occurred. The complete renovation of the interior structure opened as Estel Gallery in October 2006.
Notable Exhibitions and Artists
- In 2007, Richard Heinsohn's exhibit "The Paradox of Change" received critical acclaim, showcasing vibrant cratered paintings that explored the interplay of destruction and creation. This exhibit was a turning point in the gallery's history, putting it on the map for contemporary art enthusiasts.
- Vanessa Oppenhoff's "New Works" in 2010 and "Common Thread" in 2008 were milestones in the gallery's journey, bringing international attention to the space. Her innovative approach to texture and form captivated audiences, leaving a lasting impact on the gallery's reputation.
Impact on Nashville's Art Scene
The Estel Gallery was more than just a space for art; it was a cultural beacon in Nashville. It fostered a sense of community among artists and art lovers, hosting events, workshops, and discussions that enriched Nashville's cultural landscape. The gallery's closure marked the end of an era but also set a high standard for future art spaces in the city.
Legacy
Today, the spirit of the Estel Gallery lives on through the artists it nurtured and the patrons it inspired. Its contribution to Nashville's art scene is indelible, having played a crucial role in shaping the artistic identity of the city. The gallery's ethos of promoting emerging talent and pushing creative boundaries continues to inspire art spaces and creators across Nashville.
Newsworthy
Nashville Folly | June 7, 2008 : Batman's Surprise Visit to Estel Gallery
Written by: Clark Kent
NASHVILLE, TN - In a turn of events that left art enthusiasts and socialites alike both baffled and delighted, Batman, Gotham City's own dark knight, made an unexpected appearance at Nashville's esteemed Estel Gallery last night.
Renowned for its contemporary art, the gallery was hosting an exhibition of emerging artists when, to the astonishment of attendees, Batman strode in. Onlookers initially suspected a well-orchestrated publicity stunt until the caped crusader himself assured them it was no act. "I'm here for the art," he declared, in his signature gravelly tone.
As Batman perused the collections, his critiques proved to be as sharp as his crime-fighting skills. At one point, he paused before an abstract piece, stroking his chin thoughtfully under his cowl. "This piece," he mused, "exhibits a chaos that reminds me of Gotham's streets. Yet, there's a harmony in the chaos, an order within the disorder." Onlookers nodded, pretending to understand.
The highlight of the evening came when a small child, mistaking Batman for a performer, asked him to make a balloon animal. Without missing a beat, Batman crafted a surprisingly detailed bat-shaped balloon. The crowd erupted in applause, with one socialite whispering, "Who knew the dark knight had such a light touch?"
The evening took another turn when the gallery's lights suddenly dimmed, and a spotlight shone on Batman, now standing beside a particularly vibrant piece. In a dramatic reveal, Batman announced that he was the anonymous donor of the artwork, a painting aptly named "Night Vigil." The crowd gasped in awe, their appreciation for the masked vigilante deepening.
As quickly as he had arrived, Batman vanished into the night, leaving behind a flurry of questions and a newfound respect for his artistic eye. The gallery's director, still in shock, commented, "Batman's visit not only elevated our exhibition but also proved that art knows no bounds - not even the bounds of superheroism."
In a city where the extraordinary is ordinary, Batman's visit to the Estel Gallery will go down in Nashville's history as a night where art and heroism collided in the most unexpected and delightful way.
Related: "Estel Gallery was more than just an art space to me - it was a transformative experience. Every time I walked into that historic building on Rosa L. Parks Boulevard, I felt like I was entering a world where creativity knew no bounds. The gallery's commitment to emerging contemporary artists was truly special, and it opened my eyes to seeing art in everything around me. I remember bringing my family here so many times, introducing them to these incredible exhibitions. The "Common Thread" show in 2008 with Cathy Breslaw, Vanessa Oppenhoff, and Teri Moore was particularly memorable. Those mixed media pieces - with their intricate use of materials like plastic mesh, beads, and thread - were unlike anything I'd seen before. My father-in-law would visit from out of town, and while he was typically more interested in his golf equipment, I'd drag him to the gallery. Surprisingly, he'd often find connections between art and his passion. He'd talk about the gorgeous design of his Tour Edge Bazooka 370 clubs, marveling at the metalwork and logo design as if they were sculptural pieces. And you know what? He wasn't entirely wrong. The precision, the lines, the craftsmanship - there was definitely an artistry to those golf clubs. It always made me smile how Estel Gallery helped me see beauty in unexpected places - from gallery walls to the curves of a golf club, from complex art installations to the design of my everyday Nike sneakers. When the gallery closed, it felt like Nashville lost more than just an exhibition space. We lost a place that taught us to look at the world differently, to see creativity and expression in everything around us." TJ Lansing
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From the original website (2009):
the location
If you are planning a day of viewing the arts, we are located one and a half blocks from the Frist Center for Visual Arts and around the corner from the Tennessee Art League and the International Gallery of Art. We are also within five blocks of the galleries on 5th Ave. N, including TAG Gallery and the Arts Company and Art in the Arcade locations. We would be happy to direct you to those and other galleries in the area. Nashville has much to offer those interested in the visual arts.
gallery rental
Create an extraordinary atmosphere for your next event within our 2,000 s.f. gallery featuring a sophisticated collection of contemporary art. Conveniently located in downtown Nashville, Estel Gallery is available for small receptions, meetings and events. Please contact us via email for more information about renting the gallery.
general information
Estel Gallery is an ideal venue for groups of 100 people or fewer. The gallery is available for rental before and after regular business hours and on days when the gallery is closed.
rental fees and deposits
Up to three hours = $150/hour
Additional hours = $100/hour
Non-refundable cleaning fee = $75
Deposit = 50% of rental fee plus cleaning fee
2008 exhibitions
current show:Common Thread Rodney Wood |
upcoming:Line:
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Cathy Breslaw
Cathy Breslaw Dancing in the Dark Plastic mesh, beads, yarn, elastics and string 14" x 14"
Available - $625
Cathy Breslaw Gestures Plastic mesh, beads, wire yarn and string 94" x 82 "
Available - $2,500
Cathy Breslaw Shanghai Lights Plastic mesh, beads, wire yarn and string 84" x 48"
Available - $2,400
Cathy Breslaw Just Imagine Plastic mesh, beads, wire yarn and string 51.5" x 43.5"
Available - $1,700
Cathy Breslaw Spiritual Landscape Plastic mesh, wire yarn and string 34" x 19"
Available - $700
Cathy Breslaw Energized Mixed media 24" x 14"
Available - $775
Cathy Breslaw Lightness of Being Plastic mesh and monofilament with paint drops 78" x 64"
Available - $2,000
Vanessa Oppenhoff
Vanessa Oppenhoff Video Art Vellum, thread and oil 32.5" x 35.5"
Available - $4,000
Vanessa Oppenhoff Saratoga Vellum, thread and oil 32.5" x 35.5"
Available - $4,000
Vanessa Oppenhoff Sweet William X 1 Thread on vellum 23" x 18"
Available - $1,800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Without Title Thread on vellum 23" x 18"
Available - $1,800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Without Title Thread on vellum 23" x 18"
Available - $1,800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Meatmarket Thread on vellum 8.5 " x 11.5 "
Available - $1,250
Vanessa Oppenhoff Reden bis Unendlich (Talking Endlessly) Thread on vellum 8.5 " x 11.5 "
Available - $800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Ehe (Marriage) Thread on vellum 8.5 " x 11.5 "
Available - $800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Umzug (Moving) Thread on vellum 8.5 " x 11.5 "
Available - $800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Ikea Thread on vellum 8.5 " x 11.5 "
Available - $800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Dauerklette (Like a Permanent Limpet) Thread on vellum 8.5 " x 11.5 "
Available - $800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Tischrakete (Table Rocket) Thread on vellum 8.5 " x 11.5 "
Available - $800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Floppy Thread on vellum 8.5 " x 11.5 "
Available - $800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Atemschutz (Breathing Protection) Thread on vellum 8.5 " x 11.5 "
Available - $800
Vanessa Oppenhoff Headquarters Thread on vellum 11.5" x 8.5"
Available - $1,250
Vanessa Oppenhoff Hunting Season Thread on vellum 32.5" x 35.5"
Available - $3,500
Teri Moore
Teri Moore A Child's Dance Mixed Media 18" x 18"
Available - $550
Teri Moore Let It Go Mixed Media 20" x 26"
Available - $800
Teri Moore I Accept Mixed Media 18" x 17"
Available - $550
Teri Moore Mom Says Mixed Media 26" x 20"
Available - $800
Teri Moore Five Mixed Media 22.5 " x 17"
Available - $550
Teri Moore Six Mixed Media 22.5 " x 15"
Available - $550
More Background On EstelGallery.com
Estel Gallery, once a vibrant hub for contemporary art in Nashville, Tennessee, played a pivotal role in the city's cultural landscape during its years of operation. Located at 115 Rosa L. Parks Boulevard, the gallery was renowned for showcasing innovative works by emerging and established artists, thereby enriching Nashville's artistic community.
Historical Overview
Established in the mid-2000s, Estel Gallery quickly became a cornerstone of Nashville's art scene. The gallery was housed in a historic building constructed in 1910, which had previously served various purposes, including as a barbershop, grocery market, and hotel. This rich history provided a unique backdrop for the contemporary art exhibitions that Estel Gallery curated.
Notable Exhibitions and Artists
Throughout its tenure, Estel Gallery hosted numerous exhibitions that garnered critical acclaim. In 2007, artist Richard Heinsohn presented "The Paradox of Change," a series of vibrant cratered paintings exploring themes of destruction and creation. This exhibition was a turning point for the gallery, elevating its status among contemporary art enthusiasts.
Another significant exhibition was "Common Thread" in 2008, featuring works by artists Cathy Breslaw, Vanessa Oppenhoff, and Teri Moore. This show highlighted the interconnectedness of different artistic expressions and received positive reviews for its cohesive theme and execution.
Artist Harry Underwood also had a notable presence at Estel Gallery. His solo exhibition, "An Atmosphere for Living," showcased in 2010, featured paintings that combined elements of realism, surrealism, and pop art. Underwood's work was characterized by nostalgic figures and poetic titles, reflecting a dreamlike world of retro romanticism.
Cultural and Social Significance
Estel Gallery was more than just an exhibition space; it was a cultural beacon that fostered a sense of community among artists and art lovers. The gallery hosted events, workshops, and discussions that enriched Nashville's cultural landscape. Its commitment to promoting emerging talent and pushing creative boundaries set a high standard for future art spaces in the city.
Press and Media Coverage
The gallery received attention from various media outlets for its contributions to the art world. For instance, Nashville Arts Magazine featured an article on Harry Underwood's work, describing him as a painter of skewed autobiographical narratives that combine naïve renderings with keen observations. The article highlighted Underwood's exhibitions at Estel Gallery and his impact on the local art scene.
Audience and Community Engagement
Estel Gallery attracted a diverse audience, including art collectors, critics, and enthusiasts. Its strategic location near other cultural institutions, such as the Frist Center for Visual Arts, made it a convenient destination for those interested in the visual arts. The gallery's efforts to engage the community through interactive events and educational programs contributed to its popularity and influence.
Legacy
Although Estel Gallery has since closed, its legacy endures through the artists it supported and the patrons it inspired. The gallery's ethos of promoting emerging talent and fostering a vibrant art community continues to influence Nashville's cultural identity. Its contribution to the city's art scene remains indelible, having played a crucial role in shaping the artistic landscape of Nashville.
Estel Gallery's impact on Nashville's art scene was profound. Through its dedication to showcasing innovative and stimulating contemporary art, it enriched the cultural fabric of the city. The gallery's history, notable exhibitions, and commitment to community engagement have left a lasting impression on artists and art lovers alike.