September 24 – October 29, 2022

Opening Reception: Saturday, September 24, 5:30 – 8:00 pm
Closing Reception: Saturday, October 29, 3:00 – 6:00 pm

As we continue to celebrate our 10th year, we are delighted to present Jingletown Originals. This exhibit features many of the artists who have lived and created art in the first live/work building in Jingletown and honors this rich artistic history.  Friendships were forged and a community was created.

Jingletown Originals acknowledges the artists of 2889 Ford Street - which is the home of Gray Loft Gallery - many who have lived there since the building’s conversion to live/work artists’ lofts in 1983.  Built by four artists, this was the first artist live/work building to be developed in Jingletown, which paved the way for other artist live/work spaces and galleries to be constructed in the neighborhood.  Many notable artists have lived here, and a number of them still reside and make art in this celebrated artist’s building.  This exhibit acknowledges this rich history of place and the artists who lead the way in making Jingletown a unique and special neighborhood.

On display will be painting, photography, sculpture, mixed media works and jewelry.

Participating Artists:
Suzy  Barnard, Daniel Baum, Ruth Boerefyn, Barbara Cushman, Betty Jo Costanzo, Josh Greenberg,
Ake Grunditz, Leslie Frierman Grunditz, Kyung Lee, Stacey Mackey,
Sue Matthews, Lynn McGeever, Dorie Meister, Susan Parish, Russ Osterweil,
Amy Sollins, Michael Stewart, Styrous, Andrea Voinot, Emilie Watten, Jan Watten, Tom White, Karyn Yandow

Please check out ART ABOUT TOWN, a new blog published by Oakland Art Murmur. We are thrilled to be featured in the inaugural post.

QUOTES FROM THE ARTISTS:

“Living at the 2889 Ford Street building during that time was a glorious and life changing experience.” ~ Lynn McGeever

“I look back on that time as being bursting with creative energy, as yet unburdened by big adult responsibilities. I made friends for life in that building, and am so grateful to have that shared experience with this group of interesting and lively artists, and witness each other develop and grow through many decades.” ~ Suzy Barnard

“Gray Loft Gallery located on the third floor of the old warehouse is a very important addition to the history of the building, serving as a magnet which draws us all back together more frequently. Walking up the stairs, entering our neighbor’s studio now housing the gallery, and seeing our friends surrounded by great art, brings back all those good memories and affirms that our path as artists is still wide open!” ~ Åke Grunditz

“Over the years, I have seen artists come and go and the neighborhood has changed greatly. But this building has always remained a special place for artists.” ~ Josh Greenberg

“Since the opening of the 2889 Ford St. Studios, I have witnessed the ebb and flow and growth of this community. I always wanted to live/work there and be part of the gang. Finally in 2002, I lived in #32 for five glorious years. There was nothing like it, nor ever will be. I miss the space but mostly the community of incredible people and artists!!!” ~ Betty Jo Costanzo

Read more quotes from artists in the show here.