ArtBeat Gallery Offers Small Packages, Big Cheer!

ArtBeat on Main Street proved the truth of its pursuit to be Vista’s Creative Vibe with a December 21st reception that combined the debut of its Small Packages juried exhibit, a Crazy Christmas Outfit contest, music by Heather Clarke, who is also an ArtBeat visual artist, and a plethora of unique gift items, from fabric wine bags, hand-made leather journals and a Frida Kahlo-inspired apron to a clock that reminds you to live in the moment by designating every hour as NOW.

Carlsbad artist Diane O’Connell, four of whose pieces, including [Life is just a] Bowl of Cherries, are on display, said, “I was surprised and honored that all of my entries were chosen for the exhibit. I was even more surprised to win the ‘Most Creative’ outfit contest. I exhibit at several local galleries, but ArtBeat is certainly one of the most fun venues in North County!”

San Juan Capistrano art teacher Gaylen Corbett said she was delighted that two of her ink works are in the show. “I’ve recently diversified from plein art into other media. Being selected for Small Packages validates my evolution. This is my first experience with ArtBeat. I love the Gallery’s diverse mixture of art, featuring items that are functional and also purely fanciful. “

Small Packages runs through January 18, 2014, say ArtBeat co-owners Kait Matthews and Kris Petersen. They reveal, “We plan to kick off the new year with a pre-eminent exhibit on January 25th: the personal oil and watercolor paintings of internationally renowned Louise L. Hay, a key founder of the Self-Help movement. We also plan to continue partnering with local nonprofits such as the Vista Art Foundation and with local shops and business associations. Together, we are making downtown Vista a vibrant destination for all things art.”

ArtBeat on Main Street is located at 330 Main Street in downtown Vista. It is open Tuesday-Friday, 11:00 am-6:00 pm; Saturday, 9:30 am-6:00 pm; Sunday, 9:30 am-4:00 pm. For information, visit www.artbeatonmainstreet.com,  www.facebook.com/artbeatonmainstreet or discover Vista’s creative vibe in person. To learn about gallery partnering opportunities, including space rentals, email info@artbeatonmainstreet.com.

–ArtBeat press release