I found myself floating through Gaffa Gallery for a free exhibition they were putting on... I must admit that I was skeptical when I read the address: "Clarence Street.. Next to the QVB .." Wait, you mean there's culture on that side of town that doesn't involve red velvet cupcakes and latte art?!?!? (Not that I don't love a good icing or latte love heart every now and then)
I thought it would be your typical schmooze event; everyone would be sipping overpriced wine, flabbergasted at how the artist managed to conceptualize a black marker dot on a white canvas, making it into such an elaborate work of creativity. But when I saw from afar the crowd of booze-slingin hipsters huddled around the door, I perked up a bit and through on an extra coat of red lipstick!
Gaffa Gallery is alight with creativity; an intricate maze of home-made nick-nacks, stunnig artwork and wine. Really, REALLY cheap wine! It's inviting and humble, daring and unassuming.
This three-floor playground has something for everyone: the first floor belongs to artists' galleries, showing everything from cardboard purses to bohemian jewlery, handmade stationery to bee-made honey. On the evening I went, this floor was opened like a "gallery hop," and you could meander in and out of each of the spaces,chatting with the artists and sampling the delicious delights they had on offer. OH, and the wine is here! They do a glass by a suggested donation of $2, and I'd be danmned if you found a cheaper glass in the city.
The second floor is where they hold their exhibitions. There are three large rooms that are constantly showing new artists and new collections. The rooms are bright and airy, with wooden floors and open windows.
The third floor if for workshops and classes, and up from that is a rockin' rooftop fit for smokers or anyone after a lovely view!
Despite being packed with new energy, some galleries can make you feel stifled; Gaffa is definitely not one of them. Not even for city standards. read more