Rivers End Gallery Art Talk

RSVP Studio Art Glass Event

2011-12-30T07:41:00.000-08:00

The 4th Annual, Isn't It Romantic, studio art glass event, will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2012, 4pm -9pm. To attend this Exclusive reception, please RSVP by February 3, 2012.

More than 20 leading glass artists are showing their art during this glass extravaganza and reception. To attend this free event simply e-mail or call. We will e-mail you your personal ticket. If you prefer, we will mail your ticket to you.

To register e-mail RSVP@RiversEndGallery.com or call 262-896-8875.

Saturday, February 11, 2012
4 p.m. – 9 p.m.The event will be held at:
River’s End Gallery
380 W. Main Street, Waukesha, WI 53186
www.RiversEndGallery.com
262-896-8875

Win a glass art door prize. Drawing at 8 p.m.

We hope that you will attend the reception, but if you can't the exhibit will be at the gallery until March 31.

Also, we are now open 7 days a week. Our hours are Mon-Thurs, 11am - 6pm, Friday, 11am - 7:30pm, Saturday, 10am - 4pm, and Sunday Noon - 4pm.

This is our new front of the building at 380 Main St., Waukesha, WI 53186

The Construction Is In Full Force

2011-10-03T18:29:00.000-07:00

We are overwelmed with all the work that is being done on the new building we purchased. We are expanding into the building, but first had to completely remove everything and rebuild it. We are in the middle of the rebuild. There is so very much to do. We had trouble with the plumbing and the electrical. We are putting out more money than planned, but we are sure that we will be much happier with the new enlarged gallery of 3,500 square feet. Here are some picture of our progress.

Social Media and Promoting Art

2011-09-21T18:11:00.000-07:00

The social media tools have changed.

One of the most valuable elements of one-to-one marketing of Art is the ability to recognize those loyal customers who make repeat purchases, and to let them know they are appreciated and that they are important to the artist and the gallery.

I just learned something about social medial that will impact how we reach clients for art. Maybe you know this already, but it was new to me. Google's deal with Twitter has run out, so it no longer has Twitter content in its search, and Facebook is giving content to Bing. This has caused Google to start its own social media site.

Google knows personal recommendations are important for the art world and other businesses. Google, still the search king, knows it needs to sell advertising, and that Facebook social ads lead in the social space. Google, just like those of us in one-to-one marketing, realizes it's all about people. Because of this, Google has built its own social network: Google+ (which is now open to everyone, no invite required).

River’s End Gallery, just like other businesses and consumers, is posting links, sharing content, making recommendations, telling their friends about the good and bad in their daily lives, and about their love of art and art galleries. Today, you can find us on Facebook and Twitter, email newsletter and on Google’s blogspot.

Our strategy is not based on tools like Facebook, but rather it is based on our business objectives – to serve our clients and the artists we represent. Tools like Facebook, Twitter and Google+ are, as appropriate, a means to achieving business goals through communication, but are not strategies in themselves.

We can bet that soon Google+ will give us business profiles and then paid advertising. Just like Facebook, this will be our opportunity to reach out to the Google audience and show them the value in becoming a part of our community and tuning in to our message.

We ask that all of our artist friends and gallery clients follow us on Facebook (Rivers End Gallery). We are making this site the place to go for valuable information, discounts, events, and profiles on artists and employees. The construction pictures are posted too.

On October 1 from 4pm -10pm Historic Downtown Waukesha will have an Art Crawl and our gallery is a must see. However, our front door and front windows will be replace with plywood and a construction door. We are expanding to serve you better. And, we are discounting all of our glass by 25% to get it out of harm’s way during the construction, so now is the time to purchase that special piece of glass. Also, our back door is an easy way to enter during the month of October.

Art and the Economy

2011-09-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

The 2008 subprime mortgage crisis was caused by many factors including:
• Deregulation
• Unforeseen interest rate changes
• Imprudent lending practices
• Fraud
• Unregulated derivative instruments
• Regulatory oversight failure
The government has since passed legislation to prevent future crises: the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010.
The Act, although designed to protect you and me from the big bad banks, will have an unintended effect. Community banks that, for the most part, were not participants in the bad practices of the subprime mortgage crisis, will have fewer ways to make money.
When banks can’t make money they can’t lend money. As a result, it becomes harder for businesses and consumers to borrow money. Without access to short-term loans, businesses can’t grow or even make their payroll. The impact increases unemployment. So what does this have to do with art?
The purchase of art is very much an economic decision. We all can survive without art. So, if it comes to purchasing gas for your car or purchasing a painting, you know what will happen.

Even with the negative economic impact on art sales, the River’s End Gallery art sales are up over last year. In addition, we are positioning ourselves for a recovery in the financial market by doubling our display space. Our construction/expansion of our building into the building next door should be finished in October.
We encourage you to visit the gallery during the construction, because we are offering special promotions to our visitors. The photo shows examples of the glass and jewelry we carry.

Commentary on Art Festivals

2011-08-22T11:25:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost over, which means less outdoor activities like boating, art festivals and swimming. No, this is not story about what to do on Labor Day.

Instead, we want to share a recent experience at two large outside art festival exhibits. We saw many people walking the art festivals this weekend, but few holding a purchase. We saw many people longing to purchase something, but concerned about making a quick decision.

We spoke with the artists and although they tried to be upbeat, they confessed they did not have many sales. This seems to be a continuing trend. We heard the same thing from artists last year. We also heard that the artists have begun to reduce their prices.

If we can’t get the art lovers to select a piece of art, just because they love it, how will artists continue to be able fund the creation of art? Art is something that improves the quality of your life and artists want you to be able to enjoy it in our home.

In this economic downturn, the River’s End Gallery has been encouraging its 125 artists to price art for the current market. And, we help the artists too. In many cases we purchase the art from the artist at reduced pricing and then sell the art at art fair pricing to our clients. Everyone is happy. The artists make some sales, clients get wonderful art at great prices, and the gallery makes enough to keep the doors open.

The gallery, working as a broker between the artist and the art buyer, is a key role in the art community. Without galleries, many artists cannot reach potential buyers. And, art buyers may never find that special piece of art they have been looking for.
The River’s End Gallery is expanding to so it can represent a larger number of artists. The construction is due to take place in September 2011, and when done, we will have 3,400 square feet of display space.

In addition, we will be exhibiting at the Hidden River Art Festival on September 16-18 located at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center in Brookfield (inside in the Grand Hall). Please come and see a medley of work from our artists. And, we have some work on display at the Waukesha County Museum and Sprizzo’s café, both in Historic Downtown Waukesha.

If you are looking for a wonderful piece of art at a real value, it pays to come to the River’s End Gallery, 380 W. Main Street, Waukesha, WI 53186, www.riversendgallery.com. Facebook: Rivers End Gallery. Twitter: Rivers End Art.

Social Media - Does it Sell Art?

2011-07-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

More and more, we see artists and galleries turning to social media to promote fine art. With the convergence of mobile, social, local and email, marketers must change the way they interact with customers and prospects to be successful. By shifting email programs to focus on highly targeted, behavior-triggered messaging and integrating it in new and exciting ways with social, mobile and local marketing efforts, the social media mavens tell us we will get the most out of the social media channel in this changing art marketing landscape.

As the owner of an art gallery, I am not convinced that social media gets us to art buyers. I do know that it helps us attract fine artists. Occasionally a Google search brings us a client who already knows the value of a particular artist we represent, but I have not seen any other positive results.

Now, what’s the way forward?

In my opinion, social media is often used as an easy way out of investing in real promotion. But with limited financial resources, any emerging artist will turn to these free services with hopes of connecting a huge audience of potential art buyers.

For artists and galleries, a better use of social media is for starting ideas and conveying news. The potential to learn from interactions with others and create new art or experiences is where the value lies for the art community.

For those of you who are considered “old school” here is what I mean by social media. It is the use of web-based technology and publishing techniques to turn communication into interactive dialogues. These dialogues or interactions are often combined to create outcomes that would otherwise have never been practical from individual uncoordinated contributions. Examples are, Facebook, Twitter, and blogs.

River’s End Gallery adds social media to the mix.

The River’s End Gallery is embracing social media as a way to connect with artists and clients. Please search for “Rivers End Gallery” on Facebook to information on the gallery’s expansion. You can also find us Tweeting about special offers; look for us at “RiversEndArt.” If you are reading this you already know we blog and we are using Constant Contact to email newsletters to our clients.

Please tell me what you think of our use of the media.

Owner of River's End Gallery Goes to School

2011-07-14T19:29:00.000-07:00

I just experienced an outstanding color workshop and training session held by William Schneider. Bill is a wonderful teacher and teaches based on what the masters knew. Bill has an outstanding collection of paintings too. He uses those to help his students understand the concepts taught.

If you want to learn from a living master, I recommend William Schneider as a teacher. He is the best.

I have posted some of the paintings from Bill's collection. These are painted by Dan Gerhartz.

Anthony Soskich - Outstanding Aritst

2011-06-27T19:05:00.000-07:00

The River's End Gallery purchased the building next door. We have gotten Waukesha Planning Commission approval for the merger of both buildings and the remodel of both inside and outside. Before we begin, we are showing the works of Anthony Soskich. He was born in Austria, but has lived most of his life in the Chicago-land area. He graduated from North Park College with a major in Fine Arts. He also lives in Wisconsin where he has a lake house in Williams Bay.

His medium is oils and he has been painting with them for more than 50 years. He has been trained to paint with glazes, which capture the light needed to enhance each work of art. Glazing has been a lost art in the 20th century, but is starting to make a strong comeback.

During the past 50 years Anthony's methods and subject matter have evolved dramatically. In the 60s, he started off as an abstract artist and later he found a need to work in the German/Expressionist School. As he grew older, he found that impressionism/realism was best suited for him and that is reflected in his current body of work.

Anthony works both as a plain-air and studio artist and his work runs from large florals to seascapes, wildlife, and landscapes. Lately he has been working on older European villages and more contemporary subjects such as tango dancers and jazz scenes.

His paintings have been collected throughout the United States and Europe.

Please come to the River's End Gallery and see the exhbit in both galleries and we are offering a special of 20% off Anthony's paintings. This is an outstanding offer.

Jewelry, Jewelry, Jewelry

2011-06-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

The River's End Gallery is havings some fun this June by adding more fine jewelry. There is nothing better than buying jewelry, and as the jewelry buyer for the gallery, I have a blast.

We just brought in silver and CZ earrings, rings, necklaces, and bracelets.

Last week we brought in a wild assortment of pearls and butterfly wing pendants and earrings.

Our best selling jewelry is made from nature or looks like nature. If you have not seen the butterfly earrings or

the plant/flower jewelry, you are really missing out.

Please come to the River's End Gallery in Historic Downtown Waukesha to check out the jewelry. We are located at 380 W Main Street. Visit our website: www.riversendgallery.com.

The Joy of Art and Science

2011-06-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

Art and science are humanity’s greatest achievements. The ongoing effort to better understand our physical world, science is of paramount importance to human knowledge. Art is paramount to understanding our physical world and for enjoying it.

The River’s End Gallery has tied both science and art together to form beautiful handmade jewelry made from fossils, semi-precious stones, ancient Roman glass, amber, and pearls. Some of our fossils are beautiful Ammonites. Ammonites are often used by scientists as index fossils to mark the particular geological time period in rock layers. The River’s End Gallery uses Ammonites in jewelry wrapped in gold or silver.

The gallery is known for its outstanding handmade jewelry. We are a destination for many June brides, too.

All Types of Art Lovers

2011-05-17T07:36:00.000-07:00

The most common blood type in the world it Type O. The rarest

, Type A-H, has been found in fewer than a dozen people since the type was discovered. River's End Gallery works with all types of clients.

Each client is different, and has unique needs. For the River's End Gallery that means unique ideas. And, that works well for the gallery because we don't offer canned art solutions. Just art that fits the way our clients want it. We often request artists to create custom pieces for our clients. Our custom art always pleases our clients and we really enjoy giving them what they want. We start by being very good listeners. It's in our blood.

The gallery is offering a 20% orange circle tag sale on Anthony Soskich's beautiful oil paintings. We have about 40 pieces on display in our adjacent gallery. Just ask to see his work. See you soon.

Painting Trees

2011-04-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

Just like painting anything, the 'secret' to painting outstanding trees comes from an understanding of the underlying structure of trees complemented by observation of different species.

To make your trees look special, you should look for what makes a tree different from another and you should seek out trees that have been bent, twisted, or changed in some way by the environment.

Compile your file with photos and your sketchbook with your notes, sketches, and even bits of bark and leaves. Buy yourself a book on tree identification and learn the characteristics of individual species. Then go out into the woods and identify some trees and select likely subjects to paint.

It is important to note that not all leaves are the same color on a tree and each leaf is different too. See where the light strikes the leaf. Make sure that you include the light accents on your trees.

And, as a living Master Painter told me. Never paint from a photo. Go outside and paint.

Joan from the River's End Gallery is painting trees in the back of the gallery on Sunday afternoons (noon - 4pm).

Come and watch.

Sad Observation

2011-03-20T18:04:00.000-07:00

Something is happening to established art galleries, I don't know what the cause, but art galleries are closing all over southeast Wisconsin. I am sure that each gallery has its reasons for closing, but whatever the reasons, a contributing reason must be the economy.

This weekend I received notice that the Gilded Edge Gallery in Elm Grove is closing. This is very sad news, and I wish Mary the best in the future.

Some galleries are staying alive by offering framing. But, even with framing some are closing. Some galleries keep going because they are cooperative galleries where the artists pay rent, however, I have heard of a few cooperatives closing too.

With home sales down clients do not have a reason to redecorate their homes and that impacts art sales.

The River's End Gallery had wonderful sales in 2010, up 50% over 2009. But, January and March have been worse than 2010. February, however, was double 2010. With irregular sales, we do not know what to expect in 2011.

If any of my blog followers have an idea on how to encourage more sales, please let me know by commenting on the blog. We would love to hear from you.

St. Patrick Day Celebration at River's End Gallery

2011-03-17T12:46:00.000-07:00

St. Patrick's Day Celebrations
There are many different stories of how St. Patrick's Day began, which is no surprise for a thousand year old holiday. What we do know for sure is that the holiday came to America in 1737 and was celebrated in Boston that year. Over 100 U.S. cities have St. Patrick's Day parades with the biggest one in New York City.

Count your Lucky Charms
Imaginary creatures known as leprechauns are said to be the guardians of ancient
treasure in Ireland. If you catch one, he'll resort to trickery in order to be set free, and if you take your eye off him, he'll vanish in an instant. Leprechauns represent opportunity. You need to seize it, hold onto it and make sure you take advantage of the opportunity.

Pot O' Gold
The River’s End Gallery can help you acquire a special piece of art in 2011.
Our clients partner with us to help them make their home a beautiful place to behold and during this week we are offing 10% off anything green or that is mostly green. We hope to see you and wish you a "grand St. Patrick Data."

River's End Gallery Is Expanding

2011-03-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

The River's End Gallery will be expanding and doubling its size. The remodeling will take about six months to complete and therefore,the River's End Gallery will be operating as usual for a while.

The gallery we are expanding into is right next door and we plan to cut a hole through the wall to connect both galleries. The artists who display in the building we are expanding into will continue to show their wonderful work there. So, no change for either gallery for a while.

Once all the construction dust settles, both galleries will become one unified River's End Gallery.

We know that our clients will benefit from the larger display space and we are excited to be working with the great artists who will be joining the River's End Gallery.

Glass Event Held at River's End Gallery

2011-02-22T05:59:00.000-08:00

The River's End Gallery held it's third annual Glass Up Your Walls, Glass Art Extravaganza on February 19. There were 16 different glass art displays and 5 glass artists were in attendance.
We saw about 200 clients on Saturday, but some of our clients decided to come early to preview and purchase the art on Friday.
On Sunday, we had an ice/snow storm and still our clients came. Overall, we had a wonderful weekend and have contacted our artists to fill in with new pieces.
The display will be up through the end of March for those how did not make the opening.
The River's End Gallery team wish to thank all of our clients and artists for a wonderful weekend.

Glass Up You Wall, Glass Art Extravaganza

2011-01-01T21:12:00.000-08:00

The 3rd Annual, Glass Up Your Walls event, will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2011, 4pm -9pm. To attend this Exclusive reception, please RSVP by February 11, 2011.

Sixteen leading Wisconsin glass artists and artists from around the country are showing their art during this glass extravaganza and reception. To attend this free event simply e-mail or call. We will e-mail you your personal ticket. If you prefer, we will mail your ticket to you.

To register e-mail RSVP@RiversEndGallery.com or call 262-896-8875.

Saturday, February 19, 2011
4 p.m. – 9 p.m.The event will be held at:
River’s End Gallery
380 W. Main Street, Waukesha, WI 53186
www.RiversEndGallery.com
262-896-8875

Win a glass art door prize. Drawing at 8 p.m.

We hope that you will attend the reception, but if you can't the exhibit will be at the gallery until March 31.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-16T06:18:00.000-08:00

As the holiday season and another year end approaches, we have the opportunity to reflect on those we have worked with over the past year. We appreciate the opportunities we have had to serve our clients and artists and would like to express our appreciation to those clients, artists, and our gallery associates who have helped to make the gallery a success. Thank you.

Please have a happy holiday and new year.

The River's End Gallery Team
Joan, Dot, Kelly, Barbara, Jennifer, Kristina, Kristy, Jim and John

Build a Basket

2010-12-08T07:59:00.000-08:00

Now that the count down to Christmas is here, the River's End Gallery staff want to make your holiday shopping a little easier. We are offering "Build a Basket".

All you need to do is select gift items for the basket and the Gallery will provide the basket, ribbon and fixings all free of charge. All you will need to do is pay for the contents. And, our trained staff will help you put the basket together. The offer is good through December 22.

Come to the Gallery during normal business hours to build your own personalized basket.

River's End Gallery
380 W Main Street
Waukesha, WI 53186
www.RiversEndGallery.com
262-896-8875

Sunday Noon - 4pm
Tuesday - Wednesday 11am -6pm
Thursday - Friday 11am - 8pm
Saturday 10am - 4pm

Holiday Wish

2010-11-24T08:29:00.000-08:00

We’d like to pause for a moment and give thanks to all of our clients and colleagues for the support you’ve provided throughout the year.

We appreciation your loyalty and offer best wishes for the coming
holiday season!

We hope we get the opportunity to convey this wish in person during the December 4 Waukesha Art Crawl. We are open on the Art Crawl Saturday from 10am - 10pm. The Art Crawl officially begins at 4pm. The featured artists are Dot Birner - sweet flower watercolor paintings, Jim Sanders - abstract fused glass for your wall, and Kristy Goggio - musical birds oil painting.

Songster Bird Exhibit

2010-11-03T15:04:00.000-07:00

Waukesha Art Gallery Features the “Songster Birds” Mixed Media Exhibit

Kristy Goggio paintings an amalgamation of bird, human and musical instrument are being exhibited November 5, 2010 and the exhibit runs through February, 2011.

Kristy Goggio discusses her oil and mixed media collection of paintings of birds that have morphed into musical instruments. “Images of birds have been steady in my work for most of my career. My birds have evolved through the years from once traditional to an amalgamation of part bird, part human and part musical instrument. My Songster Birds are a metaphor for the song, the sounds and the texture your ear can play with when listening.” Many of Goggio’s pieces are painted on actual sheet music to identify and give depth and texture to the musical theme of the painting.

Kristi Goggio holds a BFA from Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. She has exhibited around the country, garnering “Best of Alumni Show” at Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design in 1988 and “First Place” at the New York Art Expo Emerging Artist show in 2008.

The Songster Bird Exhibit a featured at Waukesha Art Crawl on December 4, 2010, from 4pm – 10pm and Kristy will be happy to explain the messaging behind her paintings.

About River’s End Gallery
The gallery carries a variety of works for all interests and hosts special exhibits monthly. Although many of the artists are from Wisconsin, the gallery also serves artists from around the United States. The gallery offers sculpture, art glass, art jewelry, large and small paintings and some prints. Many of the artists will create commissioned works for buyers with specialized interests.

Rivers’ End Gallery is located in historic Downtown Waukesha at 380 W. Main Street, Waukesha, WI,53186, www.riversendgallery.com, 262-896-8875.

Photorealizm

2010-10-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Photography has altered the way we judge paintings. With the ability to capture a photographic likeness—from details such as a leaf falling to the expression on a face—came the idea, the more detail an artist renders, the better the painting. When it comes to painting however, this isn’t always the case. Unless an artist is aiming for realism, painting something that looks like photography can make a painting feel strained or contrived.

The River’s End Gallery understands that paintings should appeal to its clients and at the same time, have all the attributes of a great painting. The gallery has many new artists and paintings that offer a master’s quality. When thinking about your next selection of art, please make sure that you visit the River’s End Gallery, 380 W Main Street, Waukesha, 53186, www.RiversEndGallery.com, 262-896-8875.

Under the Sun and Over the Moon

2010-10-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

Who isn’t enchanted with Cole Porter? The song Night and Day resonates with most of us. Its inspiration spans decades, being reinterpreted by artists such as Billie Holiday, Ringo Starr, bossa nova singer Bebel Gilberto and the band U2. It’s a classic that gets you thinking about the beauty of nature.
Many of the artists associated with the River’s End Gallery’s are inspired by music from artists such as Cole Porter. So, as autumn splashes change across our wonderful Wisconsin landscapes, it is a good time to ponder the texture and color of art that can be your windowpane into nature all through the winter.
Our artists help you capture the special magic in the landscape when you’re surrounded by the hushed quiet of winter. When you gaze at a painting you may suddenly hear the birds searching for seeds in the snow, the splash of water, the whisper of wind in the branches or smell the flowers blooming. The River’s End Gallery features landscapes that can bring to your home or office a season of your choice.
This fall, come and enjoy the wonderful landscapes paintings available at River’s End Gallery, 380 W. Main Street, Waukesha, WI 53186, 262-896-8875, www.RiversEndGallery.com. Below are the lyrics from Night and Day by Cole Porter.
Night and Day.
Like the beat beat beat of the tom-tom
When the jungle shadows fall
Like the tick tick tock of the stately clock
As it stands against the wall
Like the drip drip drip of the raindrops
When the summer shower is through
So a voice within me keeps repeating
You, you, you
Night and day, you are the one
Only you beneath the moon or under the sun
Whether near to me, or far
It's no matter darling where you are
I think of you
Day and night, night and day, why is it so
That this longing for you follows wherever I go
In the roaring traffic's boom
In the silence of my lonely room
I think of you
Day and night, night and day
Under the hide of me
There's an oh such a hungry yearning burning inside of me
And this torment won't be through
Until you let me spend my life making love to you
Day and night, night and day

Saturday, Oct 16 is Sweetest Day-are you prepared?

2010-10-14T20:21:00.000-07:00

You can find something for your Sweet Heart at the River's End Gallery and we gift wrap free. You can find outstanding jewelry, crosses, art, sculpture, paintings, glass art, photography, glass ascents and gifts of all kinds. Visit the River's End Gallery at 380 W Main Street, Historic Downtown Waukesha, 53186

Stocking for Holiday Season

2010-10-04T13:00:00.000-07:00

The River's End Gallery has been busy stocking new items for the holiday season. Whether you want the perfect gift for the man in your life or something pretty for your favorite lady, the River's End Gallery has it. The gallery specializes in one of a kid original art for you or your home.

Lately we have been producing many commissions for our clients. Our clients know what they want and we can have it created just for them.

The new additions include:

Sculpture of an eagles made out of blown glass on burl wood stand

Witch balls to catch your favorite witch

Ornaments for your window or tree

Glass and Crystalline bowls and vases

Metal sculptures

Scarves and purses of the finest materials

Jewelry of all kinds from beads to pearls, from silver to gold and semi-precious gems to amber

Gift wrapping is free.

Come and take a walk through the gallery, you will be very surprised at the new items arriving weekly.

Vote For Us

2010-09-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

The River's End Gallery located in Historic Downtown Waukesha is competing for the #1 Art Gallery title. Please vote by linking on the URL below.

http://wisn.cityvoter.com/river-s-end-gallery/biz/502236

Your help is needed. When you come into the gallery. Just tell us you voted and we will give 10% off any purchase.

Thank you for helping us celebrate 4 years in business.

2010-08-18T12:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of River’s End Gallery,

Waukesha Downtown Business Association and River’s End Gallery would like your support to promote our thriving array of local eateries, shops and galleries. Please go online WISN radio’s site and vote for the River’s End Gallery as your favorite Art Gallery. Here is the link: http://wisn.cityvoter.com/river-s-end-gallery/biz/502236

As a thank you for voting for the River’s End Gallery as the Best Art Gallery, we’d like to show our appreciation. Please print this page and bring it to the gallery and get 10% off your next purchase.

Joan, Dot, Barb, Jennifer, Kristina

River's End Gallery
380 W Main Street
Waukesha, WI 53186
http://www.riversendgallery.com/
Gallery: 262-896-8875

Stones From Heaven Exhibit

2010-07-16T12:50:00.001-07:00

The River’s End Gallery's exciting new exhibit, Stone from Heaven, is created by Ed Janecek and the exhibit begins on August 1 and runs through October 1, 2010. Two of his pieces are pictured here.

Inspired by nature and spirituality, Ed Janecek's sculptures are objects of art that provoke thought, inspire creation and perhaps leave questions to be answered.

When ferrous materials have outlived their usefulness as agricultural implements, structural members, and tools of industry, Ed gives them a new life as objects of art.

The Stone from Heaven Exhibit is at the River's End Gallery beginning August 1 - Oct 1, 2010 during normal business hours.

Stone from Heaven Exhibit at River's End Gallery

2010-07-04T20:31:00.000-07:00

Waukesha Art Gallery Features"Stone from Heaven" Exhibit
Ed Janecek Sculptures at the River’s End Gallery

The River’s End Gallery announced today an exciting new exhibit Stone from Heaven created by Ed Janecek beginning on August 1 and running through October 1, 2010.

Inspired by nature and spirituality, Ed Janecek's sculptures are objects of art that provoke thought, inspire creation and perhaps leave questions to be answered.

When ferrous materials have outlived their usefulness as agricultural implements, structural members, and tools of industry, Ed gives them a new life as objects of art.

“This exhibit is absolutely beautiful and is made up of one of a kind sculpture made from repurposed materials, explains Joan Skimmons, owner of River’s End Gallery. “The sculpture is ‘Green’ and environmentally friendly. The pieces are made from natural substances, but don’t think that they are boring; they are the talk of the town.”

Janecek is a Tool and Die Maker and teaches manufacturing processes at a local technical college. His sculptures are mostly inspired by nature, machinery and anatomy. Janecek makes one piece at a time from materials that come from farm salvage yards. He uses hot processes to cut, bend, form and join different types of steel and cast iron. Some pieces are buffed with a wire wheel and protected with a clear finish and others are left to rust.

The Stone from Heaven Exhibit is at the River's End Gallery beginning August 1 - Oct 1, 2010 during normal business hours.

About River’s End Gallery
The gallery carries a variety of works for all interests and hosts special exhibits monthly. Although many of the artists are from Wisconsin, the gallery also serves artists from around the United States. The gallery offers sculpture, art glass, art jewelry, large and small paintings and some prints. Many of the artists will create commissioned works for buyers with specialized interests.

River's End Gallery is located in historic Downtown Waukesha at 380 W. Main Street. Free parking is available in the Clinton Street parking lot (behind the gallery).

Phone: 262-896-8875
Web Site: www.riversendgallery.com
E-mail: RSVP@riversendgallery.com
Address: 380 W. Main Street
Waukesha, WI 53186-6021

Hours:
Sunday Noon – 4pm
Monday Closed
Tues. Wed. Thurs 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Oil Painting Bonanza

2010-05-24T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hot News!
One of your very special oil painters just brought in 63 paintings. Over the years, he has trusted the River’s End Gallery with his works of art and is offering our clients these paintings at new, lower prices.

We are so very honored to represent Anthony Soskich and new pieces are outstanding! Please stop by and look through the new collection. There is only one problem; we do not have enough wall space for all of the pieces. But, we will help our clients look though the stacked paintings for a very wonderful painting that fits your home.

The readers of this blog are getting advanced notice of this delivery and the low prices.

Mother's Day, Art Crawl and Jewelry Discount

2010-04-27T12:03:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Mother’s Day, May 9, 2010! We are offering Art Photography by Gene Gerbasi with fresh new spring images at 10% off the marked price through the end of May. Gene’s beautiful images of tulips, sans souci lilies, carnations and roses are certain to say “I love you, Mom!” These framed blossoms and bouquets won’t wither or fade, and will last a lifetime. Come in to view all of Gene’s floral images including daisies and water lilies. His romantic photographic images shout “Spring is Here”.

Come Saturday, May 1 for the downtown Waukesha’s Art Crawl from 4 – 10 PM. All the galleries, eateries, pubs and gift shops you love will be open late. You can enjoy a fun evening browsing through downtown while finding gifts for Grads and Moms on your gift list. Featured artists Lee Hill, Jim Sanders, Lynet McDonald and Joan Skimmons will be here at River’s End to meet and greet our visitors.

Don’t forget about our Special Jewelry Offer as well. Mention our blog and receive a 10% discount on any jewelry purchase. Joan has brought in loads of new beautiful amber pendants, rings, bracelets and earrings as well as the gallery’s signature Roman Glass/Sterling Silver jewelry. Also, Silver Seasons jewelry is a great choice for Moms, especially the pea pod pendants and earrings with 2 or 3 pearls in the pod, for a Mom with 2 or 3 children.

We look forward to seeing you in the coming weeks as we continue to get new and exciting pieces daily.

Mother's Day Is Right Around the Corner

2010-04-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

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Art Galleries are wonderful places to find unique gift items for Mom. The River's End Gallery has brought in new jewelry artists and replenished its inventory for those of you who appreciate special one of a kind gifts.

The gallery staff is here to help you find just the right piece of artwork for your home, office or gift. If you mention that you read our BLOG, we will give you a 10% discount off of any jewelry purchase as a thank you for following our gallery on the Internet.

Hosting Lee Hill's Unique Art

2010-03-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

River’s End Gallery Artist Reception on March 28

The River’s End Gallery is holding an exciting one day artist event. Lake Geneva artist Lee Hill will offer a “sneak preview” of her latest paintings from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 28, at the River’s End Gallery, 380 W. Main St., Waukesha.

The watercolorist will be on hand to talk about her 2010 works. Among these are “Cyber City,” a collage featuring recycled electronic parts, and “Chang Dynasty,” a contemporary three-dimensional watercolor that hearkens back to ancient cultures.

Hill has been a fine artist since 1973. In the 1980s she developed an assemblage technique in which builds watercolors into three dimensions and embellishes them with wire, metal rings and bars, paper, glass and/or found objects. Her “organic art,” which echoes the natural world and its diverse cultures, consciously reflects harmony, balance and the wisdom of recycling.

For more information about the artist or the event, call River’s End Gallery at (262) 896-8875.

Art Glass by Larry Cimaglio Exhibit

2010-03-15T17:31:00.000-07:00

Larry Cimaglio is exhibiting at the River's End Gallery. He is a successful businessman, teacher, author, and artist. Larry has been a glass artist since 1980. His work concerntrates on warm and hot glass and has amazing texture and relief. You will be amazed by his pieces because they are very unique, organic looking, and beautiful.

Larry was the highest selling artist during the "Glass Up Your Walls' night at the River's End Gallery. Clients told us that his pieces are very differnt and of the highest quality.

Glass Up You Wall Continues

2010-02-22T08:37:00.000-08:00

We had an outstanding Glass Event at the gallery on Feb 20. More than 200 friends of the gallery came to speak with 10 glass artists, and 4 painters. The special glass exhibit will be on display through March 31.

The event was hosted by Joan Skimmons, owner of River's End Gallery. The event featured Art Glass by ten different glass artists including Nick Bowers (blown glass), Scott Simmons (blown glass), Larry Cimaglio (blown glass), Jim Sanders (fused glass), Paul Willsea (blown glass), Mike Hirschmann (blown glass), Martha Kauppi (fused and blown glass), Richard Jones (blown glass), Colleen Ott (blown glass), and Mark
Rosenbaum (blown glass). Refreshments were catered by Sprizzo Café and
many of the artists were there to chat with guests about their work, including Nick Bowers, Scott Simmons, Jim Sanders, Larry Cimaglio as well as Lynet McDonald (oil pastels), Scott Ohlrich (oils), Joan Skimmons (acrylics) and Dot Birner (watercolors).

Door prizes were awarded every hour as guests came and enjoyed the atmosphere in historic downtown Waukesha. All of the glass pieces can be seen at River's End Gallery through the end of March. If anyone missed Saturday's event, they can make a point to attend the next Art Crawl on Saturday, March 6 or stop in the gallery during regular hours to view and
purchase the pieces.

Invitation:Glass Extravaganza

2010-01-27T19:20:00.000-08:00

Here is your Invitation:

Glass Up Your Walls, Glass Art Extravaganza
Saturday, February 20, 2010
4 p.m. – 9 p.m.
River’s End Gallery
380 W. Main Street, Waukesha, WI 53186
www.RiversEndGallery.com
262-896-8875

Win a glass art door prize. Drawing at 8 p.m.

Twelve leading Wisconsin glass artists and artists from around the country will be showing their art during this glass extravaganza and reception. To attend this free event simply e-mail us or call us. We will send you your personal invitation and ticket via e-mail. If you prefer, we will mail your ticket to you.

To register e-mail RSVP@RiversEndGallery.com or call 262-896-8875.

Gallery Jewelry

2010-01-13T17:45:00.000-08:00

The gallery has brought in wonderful new and unique jewelry. We have antique Roman glass in sterling silver. There is a line of bronze and silver jewelry that looks like trees, berries, and leaves named Silver Seasons. We also have semi-precious stones and amber wrapped in gold, and very popular are the glass jewelry pieces.

Speaking about glass, we have a major glass event coming up. It is an RSVP event, called Glass Up Your Wall, Glass Extravaganza. Last year this event had more than 200 guests. Everyone one had a great time speaking with the glass artists who displayed their signature pieces at the event. So far this year, we have 13 glass artists who will be joining us. Some of our painters will be joining us too.

We will have live music during the reception and will have a door prize of a glass art piece.

The event is free, but we need a count of who will be attending and therefore we are asking everyone to RSVP at RSVP@RiversEndGallery.com or call 262-896-8875 and we will e-mail a ticket or will mail one if you prefer.

Here is your Invitation:

Glass Up Your Walls, Glass Art Extravaganza
Saturday, February 20, 2010
4 p.m. – 9 p.m.
River’s End Gallery
380 W. Main Street, Waukesha, WI 53186
www.RiversEndGallery.com
262-896-8875

Win a glass art door prize. Drawing at 8 p.m.

Leading Wisconsin glass artists and artists from around the country will be showing their art during this glass extravaganza and reception. To attend this free event simply e-mail us or call us. We will send you your personal invitation and ticket via e-mail. If you prefer, we will mail your ticket to you.

To register e-mail RSVP@RiversEndGallery.com or call 262-896-8875.

Glass, Glass and More Glass

2009-12-29T14:15:00.000-08:00

The River's End Gallery is restocking after an outstanding holiday season. And, we are building a new display unit to give us 20 more feet of display space. We thank all of our clients for making this year so good for our artists.

Our focus in January and February is on getting ready for our Glass exhibit. We will host an RSVP event on February 20, 2010 from 4pm - 9pm. The event, "Glass Up Your Walls", features 9 top Wisconsin glass artists and their important works. This is the second annual glass event and will feature wonderful glass art, food and music. There is no admission fee, however, to gain access, you will need a ticket.

Last year we hosted more than 200 people and we will need to make sure that if the number increases this year we have enough food.

If you want to receive your personal invitation and a ticket, please e-mail RSVP@RiversEndGallery.com or call 262-896-8875.

Saturday, Dec 5 Art Crawl and Special Guest

2009-12-04T12:46:00.001-08:00

I was attending a the funeral and overheard a comment the person in front of me who was greeting a friend and who said, “Too bad we only see each other at weddings and funerals.” I’m sure we all have heard something like this before. This one comment made me step back for a minute and think about my own connections with family, friends, and the artists I work with. It’s easy to get caught up in the urgent requirements of the working world.

In the art community we need to stick together and support each other. I hope that this blog helps us stay connected and that my artist friends and clients read the blog, learn about upcoming events, and come and participate in the various events held at the gallery.

Our next event is Saturday night 4pm-10pm. It is the December 5, Art Crawl. We will have a very special guest with us -- Colleen Ott. She is bring more than 20 feet of wonderful glass gift items for your Holiday gift giving. Hope to see you there.

Giving Thanks for Local Artists and Galleries

2009-11-24T12:21:00.000-08:00

Undoubtedly the recent economic recession has been a difficult and trying time for most of us. Millions have lost businesses, jobs, homes, and more. However, not everything coming out of the recession has been negative. As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s time to reflect on a few of the lessons we have learned and count our blessings. Here are some lessons we learned:

1. Happiness is not derived from material things, however "real" local art can be like family and friends and provide you with comfort.

2. Borrow less, save more for the important things that have real value, not cheap imports, especially in art.

3. Living beyond ones means will always catch up with you in the end, so it is smart to acquire local artist’s work that is priced in the affordable range.

4. Don't put all your eggs in one basket – diversify and invest in various types of art.

5. Experts don't know everything; they are all human. Remember if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is so purchase with local galleries you can trust.

6. "What goes up will come down". Keep in mind, the opposite is also true, bad times WILL end and employment levels WILL rebound and your local businesses need your support to improve the economic environment where you live.

7. Don't assume you can't help or assist those in need. Giving to those in need doesn't always involve money. Your recommendation of local businesses to a friend or your introduction of a local artist’s work to someone in your network of contacts can make a difference for an artist and a business.

8. Random acts of kindness result in unexpected returns. Even the small things matter. Our gallery lives this every day.

9. This too shall pass! Recessions end. From an art perspective, we have seen the end of the recession in our gallery.

10. Now that the light at the end of the tunnel is beginning to brighten, let's endeavor to remember the lessons we learned and grow stronger and more resilient from them. And, always remember to seek out the local “starving” artists whose work brightens your day for a very little investment.

What Do Art Buyers Want?

2009-11-19T13:17:00.000-08:00

I understand many artists crave variety, and enjoy experimenting, as I do. This is great, except when you are looking for gallery representation. When a client wants to collect a specific artist, the client looks for the artist’s work to look similar to what they purchased before. Clients want works that are consistent.

The River’s End Gallery like other galleries wants to be sure it can rely on a steady stream of consistent high quality artwork. We want to know our artists can provide work that will sustain our marketing efforts. That's not to say that the artist will be boxed into a corner for the rest of his or her life creating the same artwork over and over, no one wants that. We do, however want to see that our artists consistently create "masterpieces."

Visit www.RiversEndGallery.com gallery website to view samples of artists who are consistent in their work, cohesive in their look and creators of high quality art.

Downtown Waukesha Prepares for Holiday Season

2009-11-13T13:49:00.000-08:00

Waukesha Downtown Business Association Members Team Together to Promote the City

The River's End Gallery is a member of the Waukesha Downtown Business Association. Today, the association kicked off its exciting holiday shopping experience in Historic Downtown Waukesha. Beginning with the holiday tree lighting on November 20 and the parade on November 22, the city comes alive with activities planned by the merchants of Downtown Waukesha.

It’s Holiday Time in the City. The atmosphere reminds you of Christmases past. The ambiance includes elaborately decorated store window displays, music in the streets, and horse drawn carriages.

Calling the activities, Silver Bells in Waukesha, the events will be held during the four Saturdays before Christmas (November 28-December 19). You will step back in time to that magical time when life was simple and the holidays were more than commercialism. Adults and children alike will enjoy pictures and breakfast with Santa, an old fashion tree lighting ceremony, music on the streets, live reindeer, and of course, caroling groups strolling the streets.

The horse carriage rides are the city’s answer to old fashioned taxis taking shoppers to their favorite stores. Shoppers will access the carriages at various identified stops throughout the downtown.

List of some 2009 events:
November 20 Hometown Christmas Tree Lighting – Friday, 6:00 p.m.
The lighting is held at the Main Street Plaza mall and there will be caroling, free hot cocoa, and please bring food items for the Salvation Army food pantry.

November 22 Santa Photos – Sunday, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
See Santa before the Parade at Martha Merrell’s Books and Cuddles. Pictures start at $6.00. Personal Cameras are welcome.

November 22 47th Annual Waukesha Christmas Parade – Sunday, 4:00–5:30 p.m.
The Parade is brought to you by our friends at BloodCenter Wisconsin and features local bands, floats, your favorite characters, and Santa.

November 22 Holiday Stroll & Open House – Sunday, 12:00–4:00 p.m.
Don’t forget to visit your local merchants and view their brightly decorated holiday windows prior to the parade.

November 27 Day After Thanksgiving Sale – Friday, 10:00–8:00 p.m.
Most of the shops downtown will be offering specials.

November 29 Photos with Live Reindeer – Saturday
For a really unusual holiday family photo visit the Waukesha Antique Mall’s live reindeer sponsored event in the parking lot.

December 5, 12, & 19 Santa Breakfast Workshop – Saturday, 8:00–10:00 a.m.

Have breakfast with Santa at Martha Merrell’s Books and Cuddles. Breakfast, caroling, cookie decorating, storytelling, etc. will take place. Make sure to tell Santa your Christmas List this year. The breakfast and activities is $15 per person.

December 5, 12, &19 Santa Photos – Saturday, 1:00–3:00 p.m.

Make sure to tell Santa your Christmas List this year. He is happy to talk you and take a picture. Pictures start at $6.00. Personal Cameras are welcome.

December 5 Art Crawl – Sunday, 4:00–10:00 p.m.

Many downtown shops are open late for this annual event. See visiting artists at any downtown galleries. The perfect night to find a special Holiday gift.

December 12 Waukesha Santa Charity 4K Run/Walk – Saturday, 9:00 a.m. preregistration, Saturday, 10:00 a.m. race begins.
Enjoy the bagpipe entertainer and the Santa costumed runners. Registration is open to all. Register at selected local downtown shops.

December 11, 12 & 13 Secret Santa Shopping at Waukesha Downtown shops.

December 18, 19, 20 Christmas Story Telling in selected Waukesha Downtown shops.

Many more information on these and other activities that will be held downtown, please check the calendar at http://www.downtownwaukesha.com/
About the photos:

Photo 1: The Waukesha Downtown Business Association is made up of approximately 60 independent businesses owners who have been meeting to plan the Silver Bells holiday season events since July.

Photo 2: Local show owners have gone all out decorating their store windows for the enjoyment of the holiday shoppers (River’s End Gallery window at 380 W Main Street, Waukesha)

Quality in Art

2009-11-12T05:51:00.000-08:00

Our experience in our gallery shows that the most successful artists are devoted to high quality and the value they deliver to the client. They have the ability to step back from their work and look at it through their buyer's eyes and price it accordingly.

Art collectors are picky and want real value. They demand attention to detail in the art and the framing. Don't forget the framing or the overall presentation. Art collectors' homes are immaculate and they expect that the art should be perfect. Artists must create work that will fit seamlessly into their homes.

An artist's medium doesn't matter - sculpture, jewelry, paintings, or ceramics - the presentation must be flawless. Each artist must think of each work he or she creates as a masterpiece and should treat it as such. One small thing to improve the quality of an artist's work is to invite someone he or she trusts to evaluate the quality of the art. An objective observer will see the art in a way the artist never could. Repeat this process every 1-2 years and make a commitment to constantly improve your quality. The River's End Gallery offers suggestions to its artists to help them sell. Our gallery is focused on the artist / gallery partnership.

Allure

2009-10-31T19:18:00.000-07:00

It's the stillness on a starry night; the busy wildlife scurrying about; the changing colors and moods of the lake; that drew me to live on a lake in Oconomowoc.

My drive from the house in Oconomowoc to the gallery in Historic Downtown Waukesha is wonderful with the changing colors of the trees in October. This drive has inspired me to put more fall colors in the landscape I am currently painting.

When I am not painting, I am adding into the inventory all the new and varied jewelry that arrived this week. Sometimes display space is a problem, but somehow we find a way to display the jewelry. Today, I added a new display of Amber, Antique Roman Glass in Sterling Silver, and some rings. I can't wait to work on the other jewelry we got in this week.

As a Child, the Month of October Held Significance To Me

2009-10-01T15:33:00.000-07:00

As a child, October held significance to me for two reasons, one, I was given the opportunity to run around the neighborhood collecting copious amounts of candy and the other was my birthday. For Halloween I was dressed up in some outrageous costume, one of which continues to haunt me to this day. Well, I have nothing against loads of candy and dressing as my alter ego for a night. And, I love my birthdays, but now as an adult with an art gallery in Waukesha, October carries a different kind of weight in my eyes.

This month, Waukesha finally sheds its summer malaise and we see clients who are getting ready for the holiday gift and decorating season. On October 3, which a this Saturday, we will see hundreds of art lovers in the gallery. To please these visitors, we have added many new artists and and wonderful new art pieces to enjoy.

We are making another change this month. Rather than providing meats and cheeses to snack on, we are going to offer an array of cakes and cookies to enjoy. The city now has so many wonderful restaurants and our visitors are enjoying the new eateries, so we thought that sweets would be a nice change and would top off the evening. What could be better than cookies and art?

Art Crawl - October 3, 2009

2009-09-25T11:11:00.000-07:00

Now is the time to visit the gallery. We have just brought in many new artists and new types of art gifts for the holidays. There are too many to describe, so come on October 3 from 4pm-10pm and enjoy the new finds.

Hidden River Art Festival Begins Friday, 9/18 4pm

2009-09-17T07:15:00.001-07:00

We hope that all of the River's End Gallery friends visit us at the Hidden River Art Festival on Friday - Sunday (9/18-9/20/09). We are exhibiting in the Grand Hall, just as you enter the main building.

We have 20 feet of space and will be showing a medley of works from our Wisconsin artists.

We will be showing new jewelry as well as paintings, glass, and ceramics.

See you there.

Visit the Hidden River Art Festival

2009-09-03T05:54:00.000-07:00

Held: September 18 -20, 2009
Friday 5pm-7pm
Saturday 10am-6pm
Sunday 11am-4pm

The Hidden River Art Festival is held on the grounds of the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, and rivals any art festival in the state. That is the reason the River's End Gallery is a sponsor of the festival and you can find us displaying our Wisconsin artists inside in the Grand Hall.

Hidden River distinguishes itself as one of the few festivals to feature only Wisconsin artists from all over the state—18 counties are represented from the juried pool of 80 painters, potters, printmakers, photographers, glass and fiber artists, and jewelers. Spend a beautiful morning or afternoon in Brookfield’s Mitchell Park, browse the made-in-Wisconsin art, take home an original piece of work, and take pride in the collective talent of the artists in your state.

For a complete list of 2009 Hidden River artists, their medium, and a sample of their work, click here.

Public Hours: Fri 5–7, Sat 10–6, and Sun 11–4BackStage Member free admission: Fri 4–7
Tickets are $5 in advance/$7 at the door. Children 12 and younger are free. Purchase tickets online or by phone (262) 781-9520.

Presented by: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel; Title Sponsor: Northwestern Mutual Foundation; Supporting Sponsor: Greater Milwaukee Foundation Mary L. Nohl Fund; Contributing Sponsors: Holly and Jon Sorenson, Johnson Bank, US Bank, Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare—Elmbrook Memorial; Media Sponsor: M Magazine; Gallery Sponsors: River's End Gallery, Lyle Husar Designs

Waukesha Art Fest - Sept 12, 2009

2009-08-24T11:41:00.000-07:00

On September 12, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. visit the Waukesha Art Fest, booth 24. Joan Skimmons will be exhibiting at this juried show. The Waukesha Art Fest will be held on Main Street in Waukesha around Clinton Street this year. There are wonderful new shops and eateries and live music is being sponsored by the Steaming Cup.

Joan Skimmons, a successful marketing professional in business to business marketing, opened the River's End Gallery after working for 39 years in the corporate world. Although still working for a company, she is devoting all of her free time to the Gallery and to her art work. Joan is focused on waterscapes, landscapes, abstracts, and horses at this time and works with oil and acrylics. You can find Joan most every evening painting in the studio at the rear of the River's End Gallery at 380 W Main Street, Waukesha, WI 53186. All are welcome to come into the studio and watch art in progress.

Upcoming Sept & October Events

2009-08-13T17:51:00.000-07:00

Joan of the River's End Gallery went to Philadelphia to meet hundreds of accomplished artists. One of the wonderful artists was Cody Nicely of Columbus, OH. He works in glass and his main focus is all types of fish. The gallery has one of his great pieces and is excited to put it on display for all to see.

The next major event is the Waukesha Art Fair located on Main Street on September 12, 2009. Joan Skimmons, the owner of the gallery. will be displaying her work. The gallery is also located on Main street, 380 Main Street, and will be open so you can see all the other artists' works.

Then on September 18-20, the gallery will display its works at the Hidden River Art Festival located at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center in Brookfield, off Capital Drive. The gallery will be displaying a medley of works from many artists.

The first Saturday in October, 10/3/09, from 4pm -10pm there will be an Art Crawl in Waukesha. More than 25 galleries will be open and there will be food and music all over the city.
On display at that the gallery will be 14 new artists' works.

We hope you can make any or all of the events.

Joy of the Gallery and Waukesha

2009-06-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

When you visit Historic Downtown Waukesha you are struck by the change ─ from the ease of parking to the wonderful new restaurants, shops, hotel and the wide range of art galleries. Within a three block area there are hundreds of artist’s creations displayed in the galleries, artist studios, and restaurants with art galleries.

But we recommend that you begin your journey at 380 W. Main Street where you will find the River’s End Gallery. The gallery, Waukesha’s boutique art gallery, got its name from its location. The back of the gallery is on the Fox River Walk. Often you will find an artist painting or doing a demonstration in the rear of the gallery in full view of the river.

The River’s End Gallery features 60 high quality artist’s works, and although the art is very diverse, you are drawn to the glass art, and for good reason. The gallery has 10 glass artists’ works displayed from art you hang on the wall to beautiful glass pieces that serve as that special accent piece.

The gallery holds many events throughout the year, and is a sponsor of Hidden River Art Festival at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center, September 18-20. The next Art Crawl is August 1, 2009.

The gallery was started as a hobby that immediately grew into an impressive gallery open Tuesday thru Sunday. Every room of the 1,800 square foot gallery is a testament to the our joy in finding wonderful, cost effective original art. Prints are OK, but why purchase a print when you can spend the same amount and own an original piece of art?

May 2, 2009 Art Crawl in Historic Downtown Waukesha

2009-04-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

Visit the River's End Gallery at 380 W Main St, Waukesha, Wisconsin on May 2, 2009. Make the River's End Gallery the first gallery you visit and then take a short walk to the other 20 plus galleries in Downtown Waukesha.

The River's End Gallery is featuring the "Exhilaration in Glass" show. You will get a taste of the art from seven top glass artists on May 2 thru May 31. Also new to the gallery are outstanding abstracts from Richard Arfsten.

The gallery will hold an artist reception and we expect an number of artists to be present including:.

Jim Sanders - glass wall art
Lynet MacDonald - oil pastels
Lee Hill - water color abstracts

Richard Arfsten - abstracts

Joan Skimmons - oil landscapes

Paintings Make Your Home More Expressive

2009-04-19T18:31:00.000-07:00

A drop of water in an ocean is like a speckle of paint in a painting; each one is integral in creating a whole.

Paintings express intangible feelings. They help connect right brain with the left. They are where abstracts meet concrete subjects. They stimulate you whether they are landscapes, florals, figures, or abstracts. And they can be made from anything.

We all are captivated by paintings. May people go to a store and purchase a print, others go to a gallery and purchase an original creation. But did you know that in many cases an original painting can cost the same as a framed print? But, an original painting has far more impact.

Just take a look at some of the wonderful paintings you can take home for the cost of print all from the River's End Gallery, 380 W. Main Street, Waukesha. Wisconsin 53186, www.riversendgallery.com.

New Art Equals Improved Sales

2009-03-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

The Commerce Department said spending increased 0.2% after rising 1% in January. The savings rate was at 4.2% in February, indicating that households were still remaining frugal.

Well, this is what the news tells us. The River's End Gallery in Historic Downtown Waukesha tells a different story. Sales have never been better. The gallery has brought in new artists and the quality of their art causes clients to buck the trends and take home their treasures.

One of the new artists who shows his works at the gallery is Richard Arfsten. Richard is an expert at the abstract and sculpture. A new display of his sculpture was delivered in mid-April and will stay through the end of May.

Going "Green" Through Visual Expression

2009-03-13T21:59:00.000-07:00

River’s End Gallery Artist Showing Unique Natural Art

The River’s End Gallery has an exciting new exhibit of “green” natural jewelry and glass wall art. We are showing art that is “Green” and environmentally friendly. The pieces are made from natural substances, but don’t think that they are boring; they sparkle and are the talk of the town.”

The featured artists are Margie Prema’s jewelry collection and glass art from Martha Kauppi and Jim Sanders.

Margie Prema Semi Precious Stones
Jewelry’s shift from material of value to visual expression made with gold, silver, semiprecious stones has taken hold in the art community and with consumers. The treasures range in size and shape, which are dictated by the natural semi precious stones. Margie’s most popular wire wrapped natural jewelry pendants of gemstones and semi-precious stone include Amethyst, aquamarine, citrine, turquoise, garnet, opal, pearl, peridot, ruby, mookite, crystal, mother of pearl, rose quartz, amber, and more.

Martha Kauppi and Jim Sanders Glass Artists – Glass Wall Art
The River’s End Gallery is also exhibiting two major Wisconsin glass artists. Glass is made from natural substances and is very green.
.
Martha Kauppi from Madison earned a B.A. in studio art from Michigan State University in 1982 and soon after took her first glassblowing class. She uses multiple techniques and materials to bring her vision into tangible form. Martha combines kiln working, off-hand furnace work, and blowing, flame working, and cold work to create remarkable wall art.

Jim Sanders from Waukesha has a university degree in Forestry but his 20 years of interior decorating and design experience have given him an excellent sense of proportion, design, and color, as well as a wonderful sense of style. Jim began working in glass in 2003 with classes at the Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, N.Y. His work is called “fused glass” which is an ancient art form to which Jim is constantly bringing modern in innovations.

Downtown Waukesha Art Crawl May 2, 2009

2009-03-06T14:53:00.000-08:00

If you have not been downtown Waukesha, Wisc. in a while you will be surprised to see all the galleries, studios and places for food and drink.

Saturday, May 2, the city is coming alive with music, art, food and fun. Why? Well it is the date of Waukesha Art Crawl event. More than 25 galleries and studios will be open and you will have the opportunity to meet the artists and enjoy the energy. Anyone who attends will be blown away by the quality of the art. The galleries and studios are clustered in just a few small blocks to make the viewing easier than similar events in Milwaukee.

Your first stop should be at the River's End Gallery, 380 W. Main Street, Waukesha, 53186. There is parking right behind the gallery. Guest artists in attendance are Jim Sanders - glass wall art, Joan Skimmons - oil paintings, and we may even see Lee Hill, Richard Afsten, and Lynet MacDonald other wonderful artists who exhibit at the gallery.

The event on Saturday, May runs from 4pm - 10pm.

Please come and enjoy the fun.

Unique Crystalline Porcelain Gift Line Now in Waukesha

2009-03-03T12:42:00.000-08:00

The River’s End Gallery is now carrying a strikingly unique porcelain ceramic product line made with crystalline glazes. Each vessel is individually wheel-thrown, sculpted, signed, and numbered by the artist, Sharon Jackman.

Crystals are formed naturally deep in the earth from intense heat. Sharon coaxes the formation of crystals, each of which creates the most beautiful patterns in the porcelain finish and each piece is special and different. The quality of the crystals and the elegant forms of her pieces provide a strong visual impact.

To form the crystals, Sharon uses zinc "seeds" and colored glazes. After firing to a temperature of 2380º, the kiln is cooled to 2000º and the pieces "soak" for 2 - 6 hours to allow the crystals to grow. Since the size, shape, and position of the crystals is not fully predictable, each piece is unique and beautiful.

Waukesha Boutique Gallery Talks Glass Art

2009-02-26T17:52:00.000-08:00

Glass has been recognized as fine art and clients love it. The River’s End Gallery is exhibiting six major Wisconsin glass artists. The exhibit opened with an artist reception on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2009 and was visited by more than 200 people who opened their purses and took home some wonderful pieces. The exhibit runs through March 13, 2009. Never before have these outstanding artists been brought together in one venue.

What an outstanding way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. These six artists are outstanding Wisconsin glass artists. We closed the gallery in January to reconfigure it to best show the art and to allow the artists to speak with our guests about their spectacular pieces. The gallery is very lovely and is conducive to an elegant evening out.

The artists being exhibited are:
Matthew Heindl from Cazenovia, Wisconsin has a Bachelors of Fine Arts from University of Wisconsin-River Falls (glass, ceramics, metal). Matt’s vessels and vases are multi layered and look like beautiful paintings form a decorative painter.

Michael RT Hirchmann has studied glassblowing under some of the best glass artists here in the United States. His artistic education took place at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (Chicago, IL), Water Street Glassworks (Benton Harbor, MI), and other renowned schools. Michael’s art consists of blown glass vases, bowls, plates, glasses, and sculptural objects of beauty.

Martha Kauppi from Madison earned a B.A. in studio art from Michigan State University in 1982 and soon after took her first glassblowing class. She uses multiple techniques and materials to bring her vision into tangible form. Martha combines kiln working, off-hand furnace work, and blowing, flame working, and cold work to create remarkable wall art.

Colleen Ott from Spring Green has a B.S. degree from University of Wisconsin-River Falls and has studied at the Royal College of Art in London, England and received a Master of Fine Arts degree in glass sculpture from University of Wisconsin-Madison. Colleen has received many awards for her work and has been published in numerous magazines, books, and newspapers.

Jim Sanders from Waukesha has a university degree in Forestry but his 20 years of interior decorating and design experience have given him an excellent sense of proportion, design, and color, as well as a wonderful sense of style. Jim began working in glass in 2003 with classes at the Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, N.Y. His work is called “fused glass” which is an ancient art form to which Jim is constantly bringing modern in innovations.

Scott Simmons from Madison has a B.S. and M.S. degrees from University of Wisconsin and in 1997 Scott resigned his career as an electron microscopist to work in hand blown glass full time. Scott creates functional pieces from vases and bowls to playful versions of vessels which exploit the fluid nature of the hot glass.

The exhibit location:

River’s End Gallery
380 W. Main Street
Waukesha, WI 53186
www.riversendgallery.com
262-896-8875