A raw, unfinished space soon will be a private gallery.
And it will be opened with an exhibition of my water series paintings. While the buildout is being done, I’m simultaneously painting and paintings, seeking to have at least fifteen to sixteen in this series on display. Yes, the Jed Smith Private Gallery soon will be completed.
Working with a space that is pretty much a blank canvas
While this project is substantial, the amount of “undoing” is fairly minimal. The demolition that we ARE doing is mainly reconfiguring to get the most out of the space, particularly maximizing the wall space.
I’m witnessing the best of Italian craftsmanship.
We have an extraordinary team of four guys (the general contractor and three workers). And, let me tell you, I’m witnessing hard work and heavy lifting that makes my body hurt in sympathy. Yes, on the road to the new Jed Smith Private Gallery, I have been gifted with a team that delivers the best in construction and finishing that will endure.
The timing?
Good question. We’re hoping for mid to late September, in time for having a Jed Smith Private Gallery opening event. Of course, we need to account for two lost weeks in August when pretty much all of Italy is on holiday. So, we’ll see. Piano, piano, right?
Willing photo subjects
As I began chronicling the renovation, I found myself pointing my camera at not just the space, but these amazing craftsmen. At first, I was a bit timid. But that was until I experienced them leaning into being photographed without preening for the camera. In other words, I couldn’t have asked for more relaxed and natural subjects. They also generously encouraged me to use the photos for this post and to continue to keep track of the renovation of the Jed Smith Private Gallery. I’m even musing about having a dedicated section of the gallery to showcase these images. Stay tuned…
You definitely need to display those working/worker photos! The art of the craftsmen.