BROOKSVILLE- Strolling up the walkway of this beautifully renovated Colonial style home, one can appreciate the time and attention to detail that went into restoring this historical piece of Brooksville located at 259 Howell Avenue. As you come through the door, notice the beautifully kept stained glass windows in the entry, they have been allowing light to shine through since 1912. If you continue on into the foyer, you may be lucky enough to meet a resident of this fine establishment, Gray Baby, a rescued cat that won over the heart of curator and owner, Robert G. Smith.
A natural storyteller, Mr. Smith walks you through Gallery of Arts & Antiques, with the heavy footed Gray Baby in tow, and describes the many pieces of artwork from over 40 different local artists which include paintings, sculptures and mixed media art. A beautiful and rare 1863 Square Grand piano makes its home in front of one of the many large windows that allow in the perfect amount of light for both creating works of art and viewing them. He also delights in sharing his own artistry, amazingly intricate etched glass and a multitude of paintings. He also has books that he has written that are available for purchase either at the Gallery or at www.my-books-4-u.com
Mr. Smith is a man of many talents, once a general contractor who installed decorated windows in construction and also etched 16 windows in St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and went on to acquire many glass etching commissions in the county, an author and since 2013, the owner and curator of Gallery of Arts & Antiques. Much of Mr. Smith’s own retirement dollars have gone into the renovation of the premises as well as ongoing maintenance, taxes and insurance, yet he does not charge an entrance fee. When asked why, he very simply replied, “I want to bring culture to the people”.
He also is very passionate about giving local artists an avenue in which they can display their works, with only a small fee if a work is sold. To create that kind of exposure to local artists from our community is a gift rarely seen bestowed, many times galleries charge large fees to artists whether or not their display leads to a sale. To further accommodate artists and art lovers, payment plans have also been made available to those who find a piece of art that draws their attention, but do not have the current means to purchase it.
Gallery of Arts & Antiques has also partnered with a local artist, Theresa Cangelosi, who offers very reasonably priced group painting lessons which include supplies, 8 weeks for $140, private lessons are also available.
As another means of trying to increase revenue to offset the cost of running the gallery, he also offers a full array of art supplies, from brushes of every kind to all types of paint, many at extremely low prices. The atmosphere here is inspiring and lends itself to be a perfect place for local artists to stop in, shop his wares, share stories, or just maybe catch Theresa Cangelosi painting in the front yard.
Gallery of Arts & Antiques have been the recipient of many awards in the short time since its inception, including the 2013 National Small Business Week Award from the City of Brooksville; the 2013 Margaret R. Ghiotto Commercial Improvement Award and the Commercial Christmas Decoration Award in 2014.
If you would like more information about this Hernando County gem or just would like to browse the wide array of artwork, please stop in and take a tour. An operation such as this, is dependent on community involvement and support. If you wish to make a purchase or donation that will enable Gallery of Arts & Antiques to continue their generous support of local artists, as well as allow Mr. Smith to keep his doors open to the public without charging admission, please stop in or call (352) 754-8509
