When Patricia Sweetow Gallery was booted from 77 Geary Street, San francisco in November 2014, (as many of you read), I opened Spun Smoke, a little shop on the corner of Telegraph and 25th in Oakland. Much to my surprise I loved Oakland and Spun Smoke. Thinking my infatuation was due to “the honeymoon period” I patiently waited for the veneer to fade. Instead of fading my interest in Oakland grew.
For the past several months I considered whether PSG would or should re-open. Spun Smoke was small, a sweet space for functional ceramics and textiles mixed with fine art, but of course it was not a fine arts gallery. It was clear I needed some distance from the business of art, which I might add, runs contrary to any sound judgment or reasonable financial practices, however it was also clear I felt enriched, excited and energized by art. With time and much consideration the pleasant aspects of the business floated to the top, the unpleasant aspects took balance, thus a noisy accommodation struck.
Having renewed energy and a zest for punishment, in early summer I proposed expanding where Spun Smoke resides, re-opening PSG in available space (not shuttering Spun Smoke, perish the thought!). The landlord thought it a worthy plan, so I sat, pondered what I had done and waited until the opportunity presented to move forward.
Recently that opportunity knocked and I was there to greet it with open heart. What a surprise, the additional space I expected with minor renovation, lighting yes, maybe a few patches, instead greeted me with 30 years of deferred maintenance! Thirty years of deferred maintenance translates to serious work. My heart sank, possibilities dissipated, I felt the door closing.
A few weeks have passed since viewing the space, while conversations continue we still have no clear path. In the meantime I decided it was time to explore all viable options, look and talk, think and plan, consider and eventually decide. On this road, even though I am not much for sharing, I thought it might help if I snap what I see, jot down what I think – who knows maybe some of you will choose to weigh in with your thoughts? So the search is on, small space, San Francisco or Oakland, all will be revealed in the coming months!!
Coming next – a visit to Minnesota Street Projects!