Benefit v.14 brings together the best in creative Philadelphia, from emerging fashion designers to kickass catering crews, from pumped-up performances by Liberty City Kings Drag and Burlesque to hundreds of works by area artists. In addition, an entire section of the Icebox Project Space will be dedicated to two Philadelphia galleries, FJORD and Gallery Joe, to highlight venues at the forefront of today’s arts community.
Located in Old City, Gallery Joe has been exhibiting contemporary drawings by local, national, and international artists since 1999. Owner Rebecca Kerlin graciously took the time to talk to us about the gallery’s history and some upcoming events.
Can you tell us a little bit about the history of Gallery Joe?
We opened in 1993 as a sculpture gallery, but quickly changed our focus to drawing. Since 1999 our mission has been to promote and exhibit artists whose primary medium is drawing. We show local, national, and international artists.
What sort of challenges have you encountered as a gallery over the years?
Developing a strong collector base.
Galleries are a LOT of work, what are some of the most rewarding moments of owning/running an art gallery?
Love seeing the new work come in and installing the shows, watching it all come to life in the gallery or at an art fair. Of course, the best thing is placing the work in good collections!
About how long does it tend to take to organize an exhibition?
Depends, usually I work a year or year and a half out.
Is there a piece of advice or mantra that has stuck with you throughout the years that you’d like to share?
Stick with what you love. Don’t cater to the market.
Do you have any advice for aspiring gallery owners?
Each day is a new day!
Can you tell us a bit about your involvement in the InLiquid benefit this year?
A client and friend asked me if I would like to participate. Of course, I said yes, because I am a great fan of Rachel and applaud all that she has accomplished with Inliquid for the Philadelphia art community!
What about the InLiquid benefit are you most looking forward to?
Everything!
You can check out Gallery Joe’s pop-up space at Benefit v.14 on Saturday, February 8 at Crane Arts.
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