The Bonfoey Gallery

Maybe Cleveland’s Theatre district needs a new name! Obviously there are the performing arts at Playhouse Square, but as of late I’ve noticed more visual art popping up around. There is of course this gallery, but there is also the Galleries at CSU at the other end of the next block.
Anyways…
This was a cool spot. I first wandered in as I was taking a walk around downtown. I didn’t realize the place was between shows and not really open. I wandered in the first set of doors and yanked at the second only to realize I would have to be buzzed in. A lady quickly noticed me. At this point I had gotten a better look inside and saw it didn’t look quite ready for visitors; I was expecting her to turn me away. But she was very nice, let me in, gave me some flyers on upcoming events and invited me to walk around and even go downstairs to where a second gallery was being set up. She kept saying she was sure I would like it better if I came back for their opening reception night, but I actually liked it at this visit. There were some things you couldn’t get a good look at because they weren’t set up yet, but it was cool to see the place in a state of transition. Not often does the average person get to see a gallery with paintings on the floor, some wrapped up still, others leaned upon others. Such a presentation could be a whole contemporary art exhibit of its own… but I digress.
I did return after the opening night and was even more impressed. My only negative comment would be the lighting. I think it was just too full force and not really needed to the extent it was used. However I liked all the art — there’s even some in the workers’ offices on the first floor. All of it is for sale — $ 750.00 to $ 10,000.00. Free admission.
This is more than just a gallery. They service paintings in what looks to be a sizeable backroom. You can come here for restoration or framing needs.