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Gallery specializes in ‘affordable art’
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SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE? Tim Hovde, artist and owner of Gallery 360 in Scottsdale, would like to make art affordable to everyone.
Tribune
Tim Hovde knows it can be intimidating to walk into an art gallery. “People read in magazines and newspapers about artwork that costs millions of dollars and is usually by an artist that has passed away,” Hovde said. “And they think that’s all that’s available.”
But Hovde takes a completely different approach to selling art at the gallery he co-owns with his wife, Gallery 360° at Pinnacle Peak and Pima roads in Scottsdale.
Prices start around $100, the atmosphere is friendly, with soft lighting and comfortable leather couches, and there is a computer kiosk in the corner to answer any patron’s questions.
It’s very different from other, stuffier galleries that won’t give some customers the time of day, Hovde said.
“We get some people in sweat pants, and some people who are dressed to a T,” he said. “We just want them to feel comfortable and enjoy their day while they’re here.”
Gallery 360° sells abstract and contemporary art and usually represents 10 to 15 artists, the majority of whom live in the Valley. Most have been in the business for less than 10 years, Hovde said.
“Artists have to start somewhere, and these are people who we believe in,” he said. “And just because it’s affordable doesn’t mean we’re cheapening the art.”
According to Hovde’s philosophy, people are willing to pay upward to $3,000 for reproductions when they could own several original pieces for less.
This month’s show is called “Affordable Art,” and features pieces priced between $100 and $500.
In June, the gallery will host a show, “100 pieces, 100 dollars,” where all pieces, big and small, cost the same.
Gallery 360° also is dedicated to educating people about collecting art. Hovde keeps a studio in the back and happily answers questions or gives demonstrations.
He encourages people to visit lots of galleries and browse online to get a better feel for what they like.
“Sooner or later you’ll find the right piece of artwork,” he said. “And you should love it if you’re going to buy it.”
Making it worthwhile
Tips for making the most of a art gallery visit:
• Do not be intimidated.
• Ask questions about the artist, the work and the method.
• Sign the guest book or join the mailing list to be invited to future shows or lectures.
• Don’t buy for the sake of making money. Buy artwork that you love.
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