As the Short North continues to change and evolve, many fans of the neighborhood often bemoan the replacement of art galleries with upscale restaurants and clothing boutiques that can afford higher retail rents. So it’s certainly noteworthy to report today the arrival of a new art gallery to the neighborhood, taking the place of a recently closed home decor shop at 641 North High Street.
Hammond Harkins Galleries has called Bexley home for eighteen years, but will be relocating to the Short North in October.
“I’ve loved being here in Bexley, but change is inevitable,” said Hammond Harkins owner Marlana Keynes. “When I first walked into that space at Russell and High, I knew it could really be something unique. It’s going to be a beautiful space.”
While Bexley is more of a destination location for an art gallery, Hammond Harkins has made a name for itself by representing many talented local artists including Aminah Robinson, Denny Griffith and Linda Gall. Keynes says that roughly two thirds of the artwork displayed at Hammond Harkins comes from Ohio-based artists.
“I‘m very proud to represent the artists that I do, because they’re equal to anything you can find in New York, Chicago or San Francisco,” she stated. “The talent here in Columbus is wonderful. We have great artists, both young and established.”
Sharing that talent with a larger audience is one of the factors that inspired Keynes to relocate to The Short North.
“I really love the area where we’re moving in,” she said. “The new hotel and The Guild House and the other restaurants are all fabulous, plus we’ve got the parking garage right behind us and The Pizzuti Collection around the corner. There’s a lot of energy in that area, which is not only great for us, but great for the artists.”
Betsy Pandora, the Executive Director of the Short North Alliance, couldn’t agree more.
“We’re so excited to welcome Hammond Harkins to the Short North Arts District,” she said. “The breadth and depth of work they showcase is both inspiring and accessible to all.”
The new Hammond Harkins Galleries will open on Friday, October 2nd with a show featuring works from Andrea Myers and Laura Alexander.
For ongoing discussion on their relocation, CLICK HERE to visit our Messageboard.
For more information, visit www.hammondharkins.com.