Etc. Editorial

Etc. EditorialArt at the Alley
Dutch Alley is an artist co-op that offers a variety of art including photography, jewelry, hats, costumes, accessories, paintings, wood carvings and more.

“It was designed to be an artists’ venue where visitors would meet the artists and see them at work,” explains artist Tracy Thomson. She says that Dutch Alley (which was named for former mayor Dutch Morial) appeals to both locals and tourists of any and all income levels.

Because the artists themselves work in the gallery, visitors will likely meet at least two or three artists on any given day, she says. “The artists can give special insights into their work and this can provide a more rewarding experience than just buying from a re-seller.” At Dutch Alley, the sales of the art go directly to the artist, eliminating the middleman.

On August 9, Thomson says that Dutch Alley will co-host the seventh annual Dirty Linen Night, a gallery event that was founded by three of the current artist members (Thomson, Linda Sampson and Val Wozniak.) Fredy Omar will perform on the plaza outside the gallery with his Latin jazz quartet and Glazer of New Orleans will supply libations.

Information, 912 N. Peters St., 412-9220, www.dutchalleyonline.com.

Etc. EditorialFurniture from salvaged cypress
Furniture designer and crafter Jeremy Shatz is helping the rebuilding effort in his own way. Not only do his creations help those who may have lost furniture in Hurricane Katrina, but his crafts happen to be made exclusively from salvaged old growth cypress and red pine. He says he gathers materials from “dumpsters and the street.”

Working with just one apprentice and a part time laborer, Shatz celebrated the grand opening of The Vault Gallery on Dauphine Street on July 21. The gallery will display his work and is open to the public by appointment.

Shatz, who started this career five years ago, originally made custom millwork, which then evolved to furniture. He now creates tables, benches and sideboards, which he says are currently his most popular products, in addition to buffets, chests of drawers and other items for the home.

“I’m passionately committed to preserving New Orleans’ resources, on piece of furniture at a time,” he says. For Shatz – and for his customers – one man’s loss is another’s gain.

Information, 223 Dauphine St. (by appointment only), 895-0266, recycledcypressnola.com.

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