Art for the young without elitism, big price tag

Artwork is served up fresh in Milwaukee's Riverwest neighborhood at Hotcakes Gallery where art lovers from all walks of life feel welcome and able to begin their own collection.

The gallery, 3379 N. Pierce St., which opened in early February, features affordable works of art by local, national, and international artists. Owner Mike Brenner named the gallery as he did because he hopes that the artwork will sell like hotcakes.

The concept of the gallery, "Art for Everyone," means that it presents works of art that are affordable for any budget -- be that a few dollars or a few thousand. Brenner seeks out artists willing to work on different levels so that everyone visiting the gallery can leave with something without blowing an entire paycheck. Brenner looks for "fresh, young art so people in their 20s and 30s start collecting." He exhibits art new to Milwaukee -- be that an artist Milwaukee has never seen, or new works by an artist is has.

"A bright pink halter top, because we have so much damn fun here," Brenner said about what the gallery would be if it were an item of clothing.

Brenner chose the Riverwest location because of its affordability and the space available for the gallery and outdoor sculpture garden. He likes Riverwest's community feel and accessibility for all types of people -- the neighborhood is welcoming to all, not stuffy and upscale which may deter the less seasoned art enthusiast.

The current show, "In Bloom," features Chicago painter Lauren Feece. The theme of her works is that of life in a simpler time. Through her art, she seeks to escape the stresses of modern life. Many of her paintings have feminine themes like floral patterns and images of women.

Brenner's dream exhibitor is Matthew Barney, who is featured in the "Art 21" series. Brenner would love to have a show of Barney's performance installation art, saying that the "craftsmanship is incredible." Other Milwaukee galleries Brenner likes are Tory Folliard Gallery, KM art, Luckystar and Living Room Gallery.

Last month, Hotcakes began movie nights on Thursdays. These films about visual and modern art and film are free and open to the public. Currently running until Nov. 11 is the PBS series "Art 21: Art in the Twenty-First Century," about contemporary visual art and artists in the United States. Each episode takes on a different theme of humanity, like identity, humor and loss by following artists in the process of creating their works. The screenings begin at 7 p.m. and run for about one hour.

-- Katie Schmitt

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