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Faces and Places: Gallery owner offers unique art for the naked eye

Posted on Feb 08, 2010 in News

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Whether it is a pair of typewriter keys made into earrings or a collage of vintage photos to go above the couch, the whimsical shop in Forest Park known as Naked Art provides Birmingham patrons with fun, affordable art.

According to shop owner Veronique Vanblaere, she first opened the shop in 1998 because she wanted to create a place where customers could enjoy art.

“I wanted everyone to feel good about being here,” she said.

Wanting to be her own boss and a full-time artist, Vanblaere thought opening an art gallery would be ideal. She now spends most of her time running the gallery and can only work in the studio after hours.

The unique name, Naked Art, reflects Vanblaere’s desire for people to visit the gallery and appreciate artists’ work with the “naked eye” — without intimidating, “highbrow,” hidden meanings.

As a result, the gallery has a vibrant appeal and is filled with fun, affordable art.

The gallery hosts an array of local artists who have created paintings, mixed-media pieces and jewelry.

With its vintage appeal, the gallery attracts customers from all over Alabama. The store also always has two unique window displays welcoming customers into the eclectic shop.

Originally from Belgium, Vanblaere grew up interested in art from a young age.

“I was always creating things as a child, mostly with recycled materials,” she said.

Her father was a TV repairman, so she would make jewelry out of TV parts and sell them at a local market.
“My supplies were endless for my collection of jewelry,” Vanblaere added.

When asked if she thought Birmingham had a large art scene, Vanblaere responded with an answer some may find surprising.

“Much larger than people think,” she said. “I have to refuse most submissions because of lack of space.”

Although owning an art gallery does not allow for time to pursue many other hobbies, Vanblaere loves her job and passionately provides Birmingham with a laid-back approach to appreciating art.

For those interested in owning an art gallery in the future, Vanblaere encourages budding young artists to work at an internship for local galleries and gain experience, which she said is, “priceless.”

For more information on the gallery or the artists featured in the store, check out http://www.nakedartusa.com or visit the store at 3815 Clairmont Ave. for their newest event entitled, “Microlove,” a showcase of miniature art and handcrafted jewelry, Feb. 5 – March 6.

Email: emilye@uab.edu