Park West Gallery
Transcription
Park West Gallery
43 Years Selection – Service – Value 2012 Volume © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 43 Years Park West Gallery® S election – S er vice – Value © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Visit us online at www.parkwestgallery.com facebook.com/parkwestgallery twitter.com/parkwestgal youtube.com/parkwestgallery parkwestgallery.wordpress.com 29469 Northwestern • Southfield, MI 48034 Phone (248) 354-2343 or Toll Free (800) 521-9654 Type “Park West” in any search engine OR go directly to www.parkwestgallery.com © 2012 Park West Gallery ® CONTENTS Art World News / June-July, 2011 .......................................................38 “Park West Named Best Michigan Gallery by 'Official Best Of' Travel Program" PARK WEST GALLERY® An Introduction to Park West Gallery® ................................................ 3-4 Park West Gallery® Founder Albert Scaglione ......................................5 Dr. Anthony Janson Biography .................................................................4 Comments from the Gallery Director .....................................................6 Art World News / April, 2011 .......................................................... 39-41 “Galleries Benefit From Art Auctions” By Koleen Kaffan Senior Advocate / April, 2011 ...............................................................42 “Park West Gallery® 'Art with a Heart'.” Examiner.com / October 7, 2010..........................................................43 “Park West Gallery voted top art gallery in Detroit area.” By Vito Curcuru ® Park West - A Family Business .................................................................7 Park West Family of Artists .......................................................................8 The Oakland Press / September 26, 2010 .........................................44 “Local people have given back to the county” By L. Brooks Patterson Park West Clients ................................................................................... 9-14 Michigan Chronicle / September 8-14, 2010 ....................................45 “Park West Gallery® donates clothing, art to Grace Centers of Hope” Locations ................................................................................................ 15-26 The Oakland Press / August 16, 2010 .................................................46 “Gallery gives paintings to local shelter.” By Kay Nguyen A Brief Guide to Artist Techniques ................................................... 27-28 Standard References ........................................................................... 29-30 Detroit Free Press - Do Good Detroit blog / August 11, 2010 ..............47 “Park West Gallery® donates 3,500 items of new clothing to non-profits” Southfield Sun / June 18, 2009...............................................................48 "City honors 40 years of Park West Gallery®." By Jennie Miller IN THE NEWS Michigan Chronicle / December 8, 2011............................................33 “Artist Marcus Glenn making his mark” By Andrew Losen WDIV - TV (NBC - Detroit) / November 28, 2011 ............................... 34 WDIV Voters Named Park West Gallery® "The Best" in Detroit Fine Art Magazine / Spring 2009 ...................................................... 49-53 "Park West Gallery® Celebrates 40 Years” The Reminder / April 15, 2009................................................................54 "It's the People You Meet!" By Roger Cathcart The Michigan Citizen / November 27, 2011 ..................................... 35 “Local Child rights activist Lauds Michigan Adoption Law” By Kojo Sankofa Porthole/ April 2009............................................................................. 55-56 "Going once... Going Twice... Buying art at sea with confidence" The Oakland Press / November 23, 2011 ............................................ 36 “Abstract painter pushes the envelope to create art no one's ever seen before" Jewish News - Detroit / March 2009................................................ 57-58 “Art & Soul” By Khristi Zimmeth Hometownlife.com / October 10, 2011 ...............................................37 “Gallery paintings impress, not just for show” By S. Kowalsk WDIV - TV (NBC - Detroit) / September 25, 2008 ...............................59 Park West Gallery named Best Art Gallery in Detroit ® Copyright ©2012 by Park West Gallery . All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written consent of Park West Gallery . ® ® © 2012 Park West Gallery® Centralight / Spring, 2009 ........................................................................60 “Art for all” By Barbara Sutherland Chovanec Southfield Sun / August 23, 2007 ...........................................................71 “Art in the City.” By Kristyne E. Demske Press Release / December 18, 2008 .....................................................61 "Park West Gallery® CEO Albert Scaglione delivers commencement address at Central Michigan University - receives honorary degree" Grosse Pointe News / August 16, 2007 .................................................82 “Famous Artist Steps in to aid Cornerstone.” By Bob St. John Press Release/ August 28, 2008.............................................................62 Young Detroiters Meet Muhammad Ali PR Newswire / August 13, 2008 .............................................................63 "Park West Gallery® sponsors Cornerstone Schools event at Comerica Park" Art World News / August 2008 .......................................................... 64-65 “Park West® Marks 40th Anniversary” U.S. Local Business Association/ July 17, 2008 ................................66 Park West Gallery® Receives 2008 Best of Southfield Award Jewish Telegraphic Agency/ June 7, 2008 ...........................................67 "At 80, Yaacov Agam still vibrant with his artwork and other ideas." NWA World Traveler/ June 1, 2008 ........................................................68 "Figuratively Speaking." By Stephanie Angelyn Casola Windsor Star/ May 24, 2008 ....................................................................69 "Buy it because you love it." By Craig Pearson Oakland Business Review/ May 22, 2008 ............................................70 "Gallery's cruise ship strategy makes splash with art sales." By Mike Scott Detroit Free Press / July 19, 2007 ................................................... 83-84 “Taking art to the People.” By Tom Walsh HOUR DETROIT / June, 2006 & 2005 ....................................................85 “Best of Detroit 2006”, "Best of Detroit 2005" Filter/Observer & Eccentric / June 17, 2004 .................................. 86-87 “Painted Rock” Hour Detroit / June, 2004 .........................................................................88 “Staying Alive” Plantation Forum / March, 2004 .............................................................89 “Art Auction Raises Money for Kidney Disease.” By Jaime Lynn Deutsch Observer & Eccentric / October 23, 2003 .............................................90 “Peter Max’s Magical Mystery Tour” The Detroit News / September 16, 2003......................................... 91-92 “Art, music make a Dent in funds needed to aid children’s group” By Chuck Bennett Observer & Eccentric / January 16, 2003 ....................................... 93-94 “Gallery Showing” By Linda Chomin NJIT - Alumni Magazine / October 9, 2002 .............................................. 95 “Icons | Albert Scaglione - Crashing Into the Art World” By Sheryl Weinstein Miami Laker/ May 16, 2008............................................................... 71-72 "Albert Molina oversees the largest collection of fine art at the Park West Art Gallery®." By David L. Snelling Detroit News / March 1, 2000 ................................................................ 96 “Park West® owner uses style to expand gallery.” By Maureen McDonald The Oakland Press / January, 2008 ...................................................... 73 “Couple gives $25,000 grant to Pontiac shelter” By Diana Dillaber Murray Architectural Digest / July 1994............................................................. 97 “Point of View” Metromode / January, 2008 ...............................................................74-76 “The Art of Community Building.” By Amy Whitesall Detroit News/ April 1993 ......................................................................... 98 “A Picture is Worth a Million Words”. By Maureen McDonald DBusiness / November, 2007 ............................................................77-79 “Going Once, Going Twice.” By Minehaha Forman The Eccentric Newspapers / November 7, 1991 ......................... 99-100 “Lovely ladies dazzle show of Tarkay art” By Linda Ann Chomin Southfield Eccentric / September 2, 2007 ............................................80 “Israeli artist's works on display.” EVENTS © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Park West Gallery® events ............................................................. 101-106 An Introduction to Park West Gallery® / 2012 AN INTRODUCTION TO PARK WEST GALLERY® ® Park West Gallery®, founded in 1969, is based in Southfield, MI with an affiliate location in Miami Lakes, FL. Park West Gallery conducts fine art auctions ® throughout the United States and Canada. Cruise ship art auctions are conducted by our affiliate company, Park West At Sea. Park West Gallery® is located on a beautiful 3½ acre site, including a natural pond in the rear with a surrounding walkway and sculpture garden. The 63,000 square foot building of classical Greco-Roman design is in the style of many museums built in North America in the 20th century. An exterior gallery of twenty-three works of art are featured in display windows . In front of the windows is a granite walkway protected by a covered portico supported by stone columns. Inside are 23 spacious exhibition galleries accented with antique furniture and fine oriental carpets on limestone floors. Each of the galleries is devoted to a particular artist or type of art. New collections are mounted continuously and more than 500 works fill the galleries. Also housed within are the company's executive offices, staff offices, fine art storage facilities, restoration studios, research department, digital catalog printing facilities, and our customer service department. Our 181,000 square foot facility located in Miami Lakes, FL acts as our distribution center, servicing our cruise ships and land based auctions. Custom framing, world-wide shipping, art transport and distribution of materials are just some of the activities at our Florida location. The facility also includes executive offices and a new gallery. ® In total, Park West Gallery works with more than 400 people internationally, bringing collections of fine art of the highest quality to the world market. Each week, over 6,000 works of art are cataloged, photographed, custom framed, and carefully checked and registered before leaving our facilities in Michigan and Florida to be distributed to locations and cruise ships worldwide for inclusion in auctions and exhibitions. To remain abreast of important developments in the art world, our gallery director and senior staff members have logged millions of miles in international and domestic travel. We review the most important international art expositions and also have representation at museum exhibitions. Through our extensive network of artists, dealers and agents, we have developed the capacity to offer for sale and authenticate works through the artists themselves, or the definitive experts for the various masters whose works we offer. In addition to our full-time staff, we utilize well-recognized experts and scholars to document and review our collections. Among these are; Joseph Jacobs, noted freelance art writer and critic; Tony Janson, co-author of the History Of Art, the most widely used textbook on fine art ever written; Dr. Eleanor Hight, University of New Hampshire art professor and expert on Russian art; and many others. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 3 An Introduction to Park West Gallery® / 2012 Our research library includes many rare and out of print references. Our research department catalogs each work offered at our gallery and auctions. When our seal ® is affixed to a Park West Gallery certificate of authenticity, collectors have the assurance that the research was done according to the highest of museum or internationally-important auction standards. We have, for many decades, mounted extensive gallery exhibitions of works by recognized masters and contemporary artists. Pablo Picasso, Albrecht Durer, Marc Chagall, Francisco Goya, Joan Miro, Rembrandt van Rijn and Toulouse-Lautrec are among the old and modern masters we have recently offered at gallery exhibitions. Personal appearances at our exhibitions have included, Peter Max, Itzchak Tarkay, Marcel Mouly, Alfred Gockel, Linda LeKinff, Igor Medvedev, Fanch Ledan, Tomasz Rut, Scott Jacobs and Csaba Markus, among many others. Each year more than 50 artists visit the gallery for signings and events. For each event, catalogues are produced and distributed to attendees. We have published, and are continuing to publish, catalogue raisonnés (cata® logue records) of graphic works created by many of the artists in the Park West group, including Igor Medvedev, Fanch Ledan and Linda LeKinff. ® Unlike many galleries or auction companies, Park West typically collects works before selling them. These collections have been built over many years. We, and in turn, our clients, have numerous advantages as a result of the aging process we have developed in building our collections. The identification of additional artists or collections of merit is a continuous search. As well as attending major art events and visiting artist's studios, we also receive literally thousands of submissions from artists and dealers each year to become a ® part of the Park West Gallery collection. Our selection process is rigorous and is based on our continuing research and comprehensive understanding of the international art market. Once our committees have made their selections, we develop relationships with the artists themselves, their estates, or owners of the collections. When dealing in lithographs, serigraphs, seriolithographs, etchings, and giclées we typically are the publishers and/or editors. Three international ateliers (studios for the creation of the works) located in Paris, Detroit, and Tel Aviv work exclusively creating editions of these works to be brought to the world market by Park West ® Gallery . We publish works by Max, Tarkay, Rut, Gockel, Mouly, Medvedev, LeKinff, Krasnyansky, Fanch and dozens of other artists of the highest artistic success. These artists work closely with the artisans from the studios at every level in the development of their imagery. When the artist signs his or her name to a ® lithograph, serigraph, seriolithograph, etching or giclée and the Park West Gallery certificate of authenticity is issued, collectors have the assurance that each work has been subjected to the highest levels of artistic and critical scrutiny. DR. ANTHONY JANSON BIOGRAPHY Dr. Anthony Janson is the author of the following biography of Albert Scaglione founder of Park West Gallery . ® Dr. Janson is the author of numerous articles on a wide range of art, from the Renaissance to the present day. He is also a recognized authority on American l9th-century painting, and specializes in the Hudson River landscape school. He is best known as the revising author of the widely read text Janson's History of Art, the most widely used textbook on art in colleges and universities in the United States, originally written by his father, H. W. Janson. After teaching at the State University of New York at Buffalo and the College of Charleston, Anthony Janson spent 15 years as chief curator at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, and the North Carolina Museum of Art. He joined the faculty at the University of North Carolina in Wilmington as a visiting professor in 1994, and served as chair of the Department of Art and Theater from 1996 until 1998. 4 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Park West Gallery® Founder Albert Scaglione / 2012 PARK WEST GALLERY® FOUNDER ALBERT SCAGLIONE Albert Scaglione, founder and CEO of Park West Gallery , is one of the most unusual people in the art world, which is notable for its amazing characters. A youthful-looking and vigorous man, he is certainly a savvy businessman, as the remarkable success of the Gallery attests. He has made it the world's largest dealer in original art. He is also a man with a vision who is passionately committed to what he sees as his mission. This "left brain-right brain" duality, as he puts it, is fundamental to his personality. So is his enthusiasm, for the man is a natural -born teacher. ® As with most people, Scaglione arrived where he is in life through several twists and turns. After completing his doctorate, he began his career in 1967 teaching mechanical engineering sciences at Wayne State University in Detroit. At the time, his research to solve the problem of how to land an astronaut on Mars without burning up and the co-related issue of providing a solution to the heat shield problems associated with the development of a S.S. Supersonic Transport (SST), was heavily underwritten by NASA. When these projects were abandoned by the government, Scaglione left in 1969 rather than work on secret Government projects that utilized his skills in magneto hydrodynamics, not however in interplanetary travel or supersonic transport, but in weapons delivery systems. He was already searching for a different career, but at the time did not know what it should be. He went into the art auction business at the suggestion of a friend, who saw it as the future of collecting, but the decision was dictated by personal experience, not by reasoned calculation. As a teenager he had spent a summer working in a relative's gallery and loved everything about it, from the framing and crating of artwork, to the sales. In the late 60's and early 70's, early success came when he met Peter Max and became one of his most important art dealers. Shortly thereafter in the 70's in Paris, he met Yaacov Agam, considered to be the father of the kinetic art movement, and Victor Vasarely, one of the developers of Op art, and also became one of their most important art dealers. His further successes in the 70's came when, by working directly with their prime dealers in Europe, he introduced the works of Maurits Escher, Marc Chagall, and Joan Miro to a much larger segment of the American Public. Park West Gallery reflects all of these different facets of Scaglione's character. Like an engineer, he loves to figure out how to solve problems in order to make a complex project work. Like a teacher, he loves to explain things in a way that is both educational and convincing. And like an art dealer, he loves to discover artists and to bring their work before the buying public. Yet Scaglione is something of a paradox, perhaps naturally so, given his complex personality. Most successful dealers are part showman, and he is certainly that. Nevertheless, he prefers to remain in the background. He is at once very candid, yet very private. He is passionate in his commitments, but they tend to be intensely personal, both in his relationships and in the charities he chooses. Scaglione is ® very businesslike in his dealings, but remains dedicated to the ideal of artistic perfection in every thing he does. In that sense, too, Park West Gallery is a reflection of his life. Only now is Scaglione fully comfortable with himself and where he is in his life. It is interesting that he seems naturally drawn to people who have reached a similar stage of personal understanding. Whether consciously or unconsciously, he chooses artists (and even his senior associates at the Gallery) whose careers have been filled with personal and professional struggles, but who have achieved maturity in both areas of their lives. ® Albert bases his relationships with artists on mutual responsibility. He expects a high level of consistency and professionalism in exchange for providing support and opportunities that they might not otherwise have, thanks to his unique understanding of the art market. Scaglione tries to understand each one artistically and personally. Above all, he says, an artist must be alive and receptive to fresh challenges and to life. He tries to motivate and stimulate but not to dictate to an artist what to create or when. The art looks even better to him as an insider, because he knows all the effort that goes into making it on the part of the artist and his printmakers. Scaglione sees his place in terms of roles. Thus he conceives a dual purpose for Park West Gallery . On the one hand, it is a kind of museum, complete with a neoclassical facade designed by Anatole Krasnyansky, one of his artists who also happens to be a professionally trained architect. On the other hand, it is a museum that exists to sell art. Does this seem like a contradiction? We are reminded that the word "museum" comes from the word "muse", that it is a place to seek inspiration, something that is not at all precluded by a gallery. He also realizes that the media age has forever changed the position of the art dealer from that of an arbiter of taste in the mold of a Leo Castelli, who, with critics and curators, helped to define "good" art after World War II. The advent of the computer and the availability of information and digitization, in his view, allows the public to become part of that decision-making process, so that the art market, like so many other areas of today's economy, becomes customer-driven. It is Scaglione's view that the public of the 21st Century is an informed public which will drive art and art forms rather than have art forms be driven by what he believes has been a pseudo-religion made up of proclamations about art which were handed down first by the Church, then kings, museums, curators, critics and dealers. By extension, he seeks to provide the public with the level of quality that it both wants and deserves. Scaglione respects the importance of both the artist and the public. He realizes that nothing can happen if he is not able to provide the "comfort zone" necessary for an artist to create his work, by acting as an intermediary and buffer with the public. That remains the foundation of his transactional relationship with both. His role, then, is to bring them together using marketing and education. He wants to provide the best forum for getting the best art to the most people in the best possible way, whatever that may be. But since the media age also obliterates all the old landmarks, he always has his receptors out for what is going on; otherwise it is impossible to maintain ground, let alone gain it. Scaglione is genuinely filled with excitement about the ongoing changes that will further redefine the art world and the place of the dealer within it over the next two decades, and he wants to play a constructive part in that process ® Dr. Anthony Janson © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 5 Comments from the Gallery Director / 2012 COMMENTS FROM THE GALLERY DIRECTOR At Park West Gallery®, we don't tell you what you should collect, you tell us what you want to collect and we strive to provide the highest quality in service, information, and value to fulfill your expectations. There is a real difference here at Park West Gallery®, and we believe it is one of many reasons why after over 40 years in business we've become the world's largest art dealer. ABOUT OUR GALLERY The current collection on display as you walk through our 23 gallery exhibition spaces is only a small portion of our complete collection and archives, which are vast and include works by many of the old and modern masters of art historical significance. Many of these works are represented in museum collections throughout the world, and include artists like: Dürer, Rembrandt, Goya, Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, Whistler, Chagall, Miro, Erte, Picasso and other artists of similar stature. We mount exhibitions and sales of masterworks by these and other artists on a regular basis, and maintain permanent installations of the old and modern masters. Concerning the works of contemporary artists, we feature notable and established international names, such as: Max, Tarkay, Rut, Gockel, LeKinff, Krasnyansky, Fanch, Medvedev, Kipniss, and dozens more. Our animation art collection is the largest in the world and includes representation by important animation studios like: Disney, Warner Bros', HannaBarbera and Metro Goldwyn Mayer. Over the years, we have maintained direct relationships with some of animation art's most respected animators and producers - many now deceased - such as: Thomas and Charles McKimson, William Hanna and Joseph Barbara, and Chuck Jones. Recently we have established relationships with some of the world's great athletes or their estates to bring sports collectibles to the market. These include athletes like Muhammad Ali, Pete Rose, Reggie Jackson, Steve Carlton, Ken Norton, Sandy Kofax and others. At any time when visiting the gallery, you will see several rotating exhibition spaces devoted to the aforementioned artists, plus 23 collections, and other galleries devoted to group installations as well. Please check the directories posted in our foyer and in gallery 16 (upper level) and 5 and 9 (lower level) for each month's specific installations and locations. ABOUT OUR SERVICES Our services provided at Park West Gallery® are truly unique in the art world. By being one of the world's largest art dealers, we are able to offer services to our gallery clients that are expected by the discerning, but also others that are entirely exclusive to us. They include: Authenticity: Every work of art purchased at Park West Gallery® carries a money back, limited guarantee of authorship and comes with a certificate of authenticity, including the complete description and research information for each work. Research and documentation: Every attempt is made at Park West Gallery® to provide the most extensive information on the specifics of any work of art offered. This information includes (where available), the title, date, medium, image size, edition information and any relevant historical or provenance information. Our research department will utilize their best efforts to answer any additional inquiries about any work of art available at Park West Gallery®. Expertise: Our staff of trained professional art consultants is among the most experienced and rigorously trained in the art world. We encourage you to spend time with any of our associates, as you will find them to be knowledgeable, informative, accommodating, and completely professional. Framing: Any work purchased in our Michigan gallery includes your choice of custom framing at no additional charge. Please visit gallery 9 on the lower level to review our extensive selection of available frame samples. For Park West® collectors who have acquired unframed art on a cruise ship, we are pleased to provide framing services. Tours and Lectures: For qualified groups, lectures on and tours of specific collections, artists or topics can be arranged at no charge to the organization. For complete details on this service, please phone the gallery at (248) 354-2343. Thank you for visiting Park West Gallery®. Morris Shapiro - Gallery Director 6 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Park West® - a Family Business / 2012 PARK WEST® - A FAMILY BUSINESS “Over 300 years of combined experience just amongst the staff shown below—with hundreds more serving you!” Albert Scaglione, Founder and CEO, Park West Gallery® 43 years with Park West Albert Scaglione founded Park West Gallery® in 1969 and is Chief Executive Officer. Albert is as passionate about people as he is about art and was a mechanical engineering sciences college professor before founding Park West®. Albert’s door is always open to his staff, friends and the community. His vision of a new way art could be brought to the world has been transformational and over one million clients have been able to enjoy the artwork in their collections through his visionary efforts. The establishment of the Park West Foundation® by Albert and his wife Mitsie have allowed them to give back to many in the local community through outreach programs, charitable events and an unwavering commitment to family preservation and education. Mitsie Scaglione, Corporate Secretary 43 years with Park West Mitsie, Albert’s wife, has been at his side since the company’s inception and like her husband she is involved from top to bottom. She is a hard working and caring person who is greatly respected for her wisdom, experience, warmth and compassion. Everyone’s favorite location at Park West Gallery®, Michigan is Mitsie’s office, where the “candy bowl” is always full and anyone can stop by for a chat and a sweet. As the Executive Director of the not-for-profit Park West Foundation®, she has created a dynamic organization that touches the lives of underprivileged young women in the Detroit area, who refer to her as “Grandma.” Marc Scaglione, President, Park West Gallery® 20 years with Park West As President of Park West®, Marc Scaglione works closely with the company’s cruise ship art auction operations, as well as the merchandising, inventory, shipping, receiving and client services departments. Marc enjoys working to find new artists, artwork and acquisitions and interacting with artists and collectors. By cruising with collectors and artists on a regular basis, he is able to understand the needs and requirements of both. He particularly enjoys bringing artists and clients together. Marc has an abundance of anecdotes about his experiences with artists from all over the world which he loves to share with others. Albert Molina, President, Park West® Florida 13 years with Park West As President of Park West® Florida, Albert Molina oversees the largest custom frame shop in the country – if not the world. Park West®, located in Miami Lakes, Florida, comprises 181,000 square feet, with over one hundred multi-national employees. Albert is responsible for many aspects of the company’s activities, from the supervision of its day-to-day operations to negotiating contracts with major companies. Albert has taken pride in seeing the company’s growth, and being one of the main reasons behind it. Nicky Yanke, Human Resource Director 19 years with Park West As HR Director for Park West Gallery®, Nicky has found her work to be rewarding and challenging. She is responsible for negotiation, implementation and administration of employee benefits plans, is involved with the daily implementation and coordination of staff training, and handles all personal interaction with employees concerning HR matters in both Michigan and Florida. She frequently travels to other company locations to coordinate orientation seminars and she administrates Park West’s ® insurance programs. Nicky also oversees travel budgets and itineraries for artists, agents, contractors and vendors associated with all Park West® companies. John Karay, Vice President of Operations 18 years with Park West John oversees the day to day operations of internal and external movement of all artwork in and out of the Miami Fulfillment Center. This very large responsibility involves moving collections all over the world with the inherent inventory, security and conservation challenges that are present every day. John is also involved in administrating the Park West® compliance department. Mary Gordon, Customer Service Manager 15 years with Park West Mary performs one of the most important jobs in any company—managing a team of friendly, enthusiastic and professional client service representatives. Her team’s number one priority is customer satisfaction and Mary’s unwavering goal every day is to provide outstanding service to ensure that our customers feel that they are part of the Park West® family. Morris Shapiro, Gallery Director 30 years with Park West Gallery Director Morris Shapiro is intricately involved in a number of Park West’s® daily operations, including: the training of new and existing art auctioneers; the writing and production of Park West’s® print, web and video content about its art and artists; the direction and implementation of various marketing initiatives; the supervision of Park West’s® research team; interacting with the public to present Park West’s® collections; and assisting clients in their acquisitions. Maria Marsh, Director of Shipboard Operations, Park West® Florida 11 years with Park West As Director of Shipboard Operations for Park West® Florida, Maria Marsh serves as the main point of contact for the organization’s fine art auctions aboard luxury cruise ships, ensuring that its cruise line partners and auctioneers receive the ultimate level of service and support. Maria’s responsibilities include: providing key communications to senior staff; building and maintaining relationships with cruise line management; reinforcing compliance policies and procedures; liaising with the logistics department; supervising the training staff; support and travel arrangements of onboard auctioneers; and overseeing the programming and promotions for the auctions. Donna Morrison-Musto, V.I.P. Associate 25 years with Park West One of the most knowledgeable and experienced sales associates ever to join the Park West® team, Donna actively advises collectors on their most important acquisitions. Today she travels internationally with the Park West Gallery® VIP team working with many of the company’s long standing clients. She provides insight, information and expertise to a large and very loyal group of clients, many of whom have become friends during her twentyfive years at Park West®. Luis Navarro, Plant Manager, Park West® Florida 10 years with Park West As Plant Manager at Park West® Florida, Luis Navarro coordinates a myriad of operations, including: overseeing Park West’s ® framing services; managing framing materials inventories; handling equipment and facilities maintenance; tracking inventory to and from the Florida facility throughout the world; tracking daily performance levels of production; and executing budgetary evaluations. Amidst all of this, Luis maintains a solid positive approach, and is well respected by his colleagues and subordinates. Becky Hanel, Inventory and Research Manager 16 years with Park West Becky was previously Park West’s ® Gallery Director and returned to the company after years of honing her business knowledge and experience. At Park West®, she handles the daunting task of supervising inventory control. This entails managing a substantial departmental staff, numerous projects and initiatives, research, conservation, interaction with artists, auction houses, estates, publishers and vendors. Her tireless energy and concentration on the tasks at hand have been instrumental in Park West’s® overall performance and success. Lisa Hershberger, Gallery Sales Associate 17 years with Park West Lisa is the “warm voice on the other end of the phone” at Park West®. With extensive experience and expertise in the art business, Lisa has served thousands of clients in matching their needs and preferences to just that “right” work of art. She coordinates international sales and gallery sales, acts as art consultant for clients visiting the gallery, calling by phone or emailing. Maureen DiPaola, Controller 29 years with Park West Maureen, as Controller for Park West®, analyzes and controls the organization’s accounting and financial records, and manages the company’s financial operations. In addition to daily interactions with her staff through which she supervises all the accounting functions in the organization, Maureen has built strong relationships over the years with Park West’s artists, vendors, bankers and management teams. Her easy-going, pleasant manner and expertise were honed through years of experience accompanied by major technological changes and have been an important factor in achieving the company’s objectives. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 7 The Park West® Family of Artists / 2012 OUR FAMILY OF ARTISTS The living artists we represent make up a who’s who of the contemporary art world. Park West is the exclusive dealer for many artists, so we are able to offer art directly from the artists’ studios. It is a special joy for us to put clients directly in touch with our artists — an experience, prior to the founding of Park West®, extended only to the wealthiest art patrons and collectors. © Peter Max 2012 ® Emile Bellet Dominic Pangborn Peter Max Tim Yanke Linda Le Kinff Fanch Ledan Csaba Markus Marko Mavrovich Andrew Bone Schaefer/Miles Scott Jacobs Peter Nixon Thomas Kinkade Igor Medvedev Anatoly Metlan Nano Lopez Jean-Claude Picot Victor Spahn Yaacov Agam Alexander Chen © Peter Max 2012 Itzchak Tarkay Claude Cambour 8 Hua Chen © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Leslie Lew David Willardson Slava Brodinsky Romero Britto David Najar Duaív Anatole Krasnyansky Alfred Gockel Marcus Glenn Park West® Clients / 2012 PARK WEST® CLIENTS In our 43 years we have sold art to more than 1.3 million people. Visit our online Park West Gallery® Customer Reviews Blog (www.parkwestportal.com) to find hundreds of unsolicited letters and e-mails from our satisfied clients. The selection below is a sampling of some of that correspondence. “Rex and I would like to thank you for the wonderful time we had at Sunriver VIP event. The kindnesses and generosity of Park West Gallery CARES has been overwhelming for our high school Art teacher and students. They will be able to study Art right in their classroom instead of going on expensive trips out of town. The art pieces and books will be used for years to come. Rob, good to your word, you got Dominic to Oregon and Winston!! Thank you. Albert, thanks for embracing our Art cause in our community, and heartfelt words for Rex at Sunriver. Cara, thanks for organizing this donation event and representing Park West Gallery in our community. Dominic, no words can express our thanks for everything you have done for us and our community. The 'Rainbow Tiger' will proudly watch over the Community Center entrance. The new logo of the cheetah looking through the trees shows how the City has grown-up. Taini, the ambassador cheetah from the Safari has never looked better wearing your tie. Park West Gallery has shown that people still care about what is important in life, helping others to better themselves. Giving money is temporary, but the gift of art is long lasting and can move the very soul. Thank you again for all your efforts in making this a reality!!!!” Gail & Mayor Rex Stevens Winston, Oregon _____ "My family went on a Carnival cruise in August 2010 and we were curious about the art auction. We had never been to an auction before. We never planned to buy any artwork but as we looked at the artworks, we were captured by the beauty of the paintings. At the end of the auction, we bought 14 artworks (Tarkay, Kinkade, Le Kinff, Mavrovich, Gockel, Glenn) and we also won some artworks. My husband liked the 'Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics' by Alexander Chen but we couldn't budget for it. The Art Director made it possible for us to acquire the ‘Beijing Olympics’ by working around our budget. We were so happy and couldn't believe that we actually bought so many pieces. We want to thank [the Art Director] for being very professional and very understanding. He made the auction very interesting and we will never forget that experience." Stephen K. Flushing, New York _____ "I have bought several paintings on cruise ships, all from your company, and I must say I have been very pleased with all of the transactions. I only wish I had more room on my walls for more. I even went to the extent of remodeling. That's where I have my Peter Max hanging. Thanks Park West Gallery!" Steve P. Waco, Georgia _____ "I would like to sing the praises of the staff that helped us on the ship. The auctions were a lot of fun and we will look forward to the next cruise or opportunity to buy art from your wonderful company." John S. Huntington Station, New York _____ "We just came back from an amazing trip to Napa Valley!!! As usual, everything was above and beyond! Every one of the Park West Gallery staff, crew, etc., made us all feel just like family. The experiences we have had the pleasure of enjoying with you are all such great memories. It is such a pleasure to know how well you take care of us on the business side also. You continually knock our socks off with the artists we meet and the opportunities you give us. Every time I spend time with Park West Gallery, I bring home so much knowledge about art it just amazes me!!!! Thank you for sharing your lives and your wealth of knowledge with us." Terry C. & Tracey S. Salem, Oregon _____ "Our sincere thanks for the marvelous weekend we enjoyed at the Orlando VIP event. You go out of your way to make our stay as comfortable and pleasant as possible. In particular, [the art auctioneer] and his staff and the other associates are knowledgeable, pleasant and fun to be with, plus we get the opportunity to see friends whom we have met at earlier auctions. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 9 Park West® Clients cont. / 2012 PARK WEST® CLIENTS [This art auctioneer] is a wonderful asset to Park West Gallery, and the evening at Cirque du Soleil was exceptional; being able to spend time with the artists -- Linda Le Kinff, Marcus (and his wife Yolanda) Glenn, and the surprise visit from Marko Mavrovich is not only an education, but a privilege. Thanks to you, we are scrambling for wall space, and proudly display our paintings as we move up in the caliber of our collection." "I enjoyed the art auctions. Those involved with your company were professional and well learned. They treated me with kindness and answered all questions. I am happy with selections you offered and as I said your people were helpful. I will tell my clients to make sure to attend the actions, if not to purchase, then for the education. I am looking forward to seeing my art in my home." Twana M. Vidor, Texas Alan & Sharon M. Eagan, Minnesota _____ _____ "I would like to say thank you to the staff on the ship, Norwegian Gem. My painting arrived safe and sound this morning and I'm so happy. I love it and it has the pride place in my home. Thank you all for your wonderful effort." "My wife and I took our honeymoon on the NCL Gem. We purchased 7 pieces of art on the cruise and we couldn't be happier. We have purchased from Park West Gallery before, but we have never had such an enjoyable experience. [The art auctioneer team] was absolutely awesome. They are extremely friendly, they know their art, and made the auctions so much fun. They went out of their way to make us feel welcome, and worked so hard to find us the right pieces of art to fit our style. Park West Gallery is lucky to have them as a part of their team. I hope this message finds its way to them to let them know how much we appreciate everything they did for us. Thanks again." Greg & Leigha H. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania _____ "We attended our art auction with Park West Gallery on the Carnival Legend last week and had a great time! The art team was FANTASTIC!! They were VERY knowledgeable and personable and made our experience outstanding." Jacob M. Crestview, Florida _____ Edith B. Jurien Bay, Australia _____ "Thank you so much for your letter thanking me and Tom for joining you on another memorable cruise. My goodness! I should be thanking you and your entire staff for inviting us and for showing us such a wonderful, memorable time on Norwegian Epic. I had no idea how special the experience was going to be... not only the accommodations, which we are both still talking about to anyone who will listen, but the artists! To actually meet Yaacov Agam and Igor Medvedev, and have them personalize their books to ME. I have been the proud owner of Medvedev's ‘Byzantine’ (from a Park West Gallery Tampa land auction about six years ago); and when I pointed out that page in his book, both he and his wife expressed a combination of disbelief and happiness that I did, indeed, own that particular piece. At my request, he autographed that page for me. I would be remiss if I didn't mention how special it was to have [Albert Scaglione] join us and participate in the presentations, particularly with Yaacov Agam. I bought an ‘Agamograph’ piece during the auction; and during the photo session with Yaacov, I wished him a Happy Hanukkah. Rather than returning the saying to me, he proceeded to draw two overlapping Stars of David on my autographed page, along with his ‘rainbow,’ that he had already drawn. I cannot express how special that experience was to me. I really do enjoy the overall experience of being surrounded by the artwork and artists - and learning - a continuing educational experience - about the works as well as the artists. The presentations mean a lot to me even if I don't bid on a particular work or artist. At times I feel as if I'm back in school learning from [the art auctioneer's] and others' expertise. A case in point was the presentation of the works of Robert Kipniss. This was our fifth VIP trip, and our third VIP cruise. It is difficult to find room for improvement since the hard work of your staff really paid off with the arrangements for the accommodations, auctions, parties, dinners, etc., down to a science. Again, thank you for all of your consideration, and I look forward to seeing you at future events." Susan C. Hudson, Florida _____ “WOW, WOW and WOW. Thank you for the MOST incredible EVENTs on Norwegian EPIC. Truly a ONCE IN A LIFETIME experience! Our daughter will always remember YAACOV AGAM signing HER BOOK!!! We came away with wonderful books, new art, new friends, and memories to last a lifetime.” Barbara, Stuart & Amanda D. Ormond Beach, Florida _____ 10 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Park West® Clients cont. / 2012 PARK WEST® CLIENTS "I have taken many cruises, but have never purchased any artwork. On my last cruise, I decided to purchase a work of art for my sister for Christmas. At the time, they explained to me that there was a 12 week lead time, so it would be close, and that I may not receive it time for Christmas. When I got home, I contacted your Customer Service department to see if they could 'push' the process, so that I would receive it in time. I spoke with Mary, and she assured me that she would do everything that she could to make it happen. Well, I just want you to know that she did in fact do that, and actually went above and beyond the call of duty. She even called me the day that it was shipped to provide me with all of the tracking information. I actually received it a week before Christmas! I just want you to know that Mary made my experience in dealing with Park West Gallery a very pleasant one. She truly is the best Customer Service Rep. that I have ever dealt with. Please provide kudos to Mary, and tell her that her efforts made one of your customers a very happy camper! Thank you." Michele K. Syracuse, New York _____ "On behalf of the City of Clayton, I would like to thank Park West Gallery CARES for your generous donation of twenty works by various artists that Park West Gallery represents. The City is excited to have new artwork for display in our facilities and have the opportunity to use these pieces as a fundraising tool for the local nonprofit Clayton Century Foundation. This organization was created as a fundraising vehicle for community needs in the area of Arts, Parks and History and, as such, will be able to raise funds for future projects through generous donations such as yours. As a community that values Art in all its forms, we are happy to have been selected as a recipient of this donation. Thank you again. The effort of your organization to assist communities like Clayton is commendable." Craig Owens, Clayton City Manager _____ “I have been shopping with Park West Gallery since my first cruise in 1985. I have always found you to be helpful and accommodating, but you have now exceeded all of my expectations. I would not even consider any other gallery. Thank you so very much. I am anxiously awaiting my next VIP event, since no matter how much I vow that I won't buy anything, your wonderful selections and knowledgeable staff always offers me just the things I can't live without.” Barbara W. Washington Twp, New Jersey _____ "Now that the holidays are over I would like to express to you that the cruise my girlfriend Linda & I were so fortunate to take was FABULOUS!!! Never have I been treated so royally on a cruise. From the moment we arrived at the Hotel in NYC to the moment we disembarked off the ship, the experience was extremely enjoyable. Visiting with Peter Max was the highlight of my trip! I enjoy his works immensely & have a few and to meet him in person was such a treat I cannot explain to you! The dinner afterwards was the Best! The food and company was fantastic! Being able to roam around the city in the morning of the cruise gave me a new outlook of the city and being nearby Bryant Park at that time of the year was very nice. Watching the skaters and visiting through the shops before Christmas enabled me to do some great shopping for the holidays. As for the cruise itself, what can I say?! Your planning and diversity of the artworks and artists blew me away! I learned so very much and was able to enjoy every minute of your hard work. My time spent with fellow art lovers allowed me to appreciate the cruise even more. I will cut this short because I could ramble on and on about what a Grand time I had! I would just like to tell you how much I appreciated the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful cruise! Congratulations on a job Extremely Well Done! Your definitely impressed me to the Max! (Ha! pun intended.)" Dominica B. Cliffwood Beach, New Jersey _____ "We would like to thank you for the wonderful artwork that you recently shipped to us, which we received yesterday. However, the main reason I wanted to contact you was for the excellent customer service that we received from Park West Gallery. Please could you thank Lisa on behalf of our whole family. This lady went way above and beyond the call of duty for us. Lisa phoned us and emailed us regularly. Lisa treated us like VIPs and we are extremely grateful to her for taking the time and effort to get to know our preferences and ensuring that our new pieces fit perfectly into our collection. We cannot recommend Lisa and Park West Galleries highly enough and look forward to dealing with you again in the future. Thank you for your fantastic customer service and attention to detail." Tracey & Thomas H. Great Britain _____ © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 11 Park West® Clients cont. / 2012 PARK WEST® CLIENTS "I just wanted to write and thank you for all your help. You have made my experience with Park West Gallery a great one. We received our print and everything looks great. We couldn’t be happier. You were a great help in resolving our issues with professionalism and courtesy. I look forward to doing business with Park West Gallery in the future largely in part because of the great customer service I received from you." Matthew M. New Castle, Delaware story. We learned of the support of his mother and his persistence in following his dream to become an artist. He talked about his unique style and the hidden meanings behind his paintings. Your generous donation of two paintings, ‘A Dance at the Gallery’ and ‘Girrrl, You Gotta See This One,’ allowed the students to see and 'touch' the paintings first-hand. These two paintings will be auctioned off in the Spring and will help to fund our art program. One of our lucky families will be the proud owner of an original Marcus Glenn. _____ We thank you from the bottom of our hearts." "Thank you for your attention to all of our purchases. They are now all here and up on our walls. Superior framing work! The art was beautiful to begin with but the framing work just makes everything pop!" Mark L. Pace, Florida _____ “We have been buying art from Park West Gallery for many years and on various cruise lines but we learned more about art and process involved in creating works of art than we ever imagined. Thank you Park West Gallery for a wonderful experience." Jim & Connie C. Lakeville, Pennsylvania "Sometimes the sweetest moments are those that happen spontaneously. Park West Gallery is responsible for one of those sweet moments at our school, St. Mary Interparochial School. Last January, through your collaboration with Art-Reach, [PWG] brought one of your artists, Marcus Glenn, to visit our 8th Grade Class. Mr. Glenn engaged the attention of all the students in the telling of his personal © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Also, thank you for providing an opportunity for your clients to meet the artists. I met Dominic at an event and talking with him, hearing about his life made me want to collect more and more of his amazing art. I am proud to share my home with such an amazing artist and an even more amazing person." Craig L. West Hills, California _____ _____ "Thank you so very much for all your help in making our cruise such a wonderful and memorable trip. It was a pleasure meeting the artists and sharing dinner with Tim Yanke. He truly added to all our 'fun'. [Your staff] was so very helpful and efficient with all our reservation needs, promptly answering all emails. You certainly have a fabulous team and it is proven by the professionalism and yet personal touches extended by all. Hope to be able to meet up with your team and our 'Mouly' friends on a future endeavor with Park West Galleries." "I just wanted to take a minute to thank the whole Park West Gallery team for a wonderful experience on the Norwegian Jewel last week! Cathy & David P. Bay Harbor, Michigan _____ 12 8th Grade Students at St. Mary Interparochial School & Donna Bridy, Arts Coordinator Philadelphia, Pennsylvania I have learned that hanging art is akin to inviting the artists to live with me and my wife. By far, our favorite artist is Dominic Pangborn. I have created a mini gallery in the most visible part of the house that solely displays Dominic's works. His pieces are the centerpiece of our collection and undoubtedly the topic of conversation with everyone that comes to the house. Not only was the hospitality and event planning orchestrated to perfection, the incredible knowledge and astounding art that was shared along with the opportunity meet Peter Max, Dominic Pangborn, Andrew Bone and Nano was a lifeenriching experience! Please extend my thanks and appreciation to [your staff]. And special thanks for making me feel so welcome!" _____ Nancy W. Apopka, Florida "I am sitting in my living room on my laptop and just looked around at all the wonderful Park West Gallery art I have hanging on the walls. I never thought about collecting art until my first cruise that featured art auctions. Since then I have collected at least 30 pieces that adorn the walls throughout the house. _____ “We've been customers of Park West Gallery for many years and have always enjoyed our artwork as well as the Park West experience. The art around our home brightens and inspires us all. I believe that one of the things that sets Park West® Clients cont. / 2012 PARK WEST® CLIENTS your company apart is the apparent family atmosphere we feel. Not only amongst your employees on board (which was top notch), but the fact that my children were welcomed so warmly by [the art auctioneer] and his team. We had several special moments throughout the event. I thought you should hear directly from one of your happy customers about the wonderful experience my family had with [the art auctioneer], his team and the other folks who attended the event. It was something that [we] will be talking about for many years." Al M. Fanwood, New Jersey _____ “Once again, my husband and I were just blown away by the level of service and personal attention given to each guest traveling with Park West Gallery. We really were treated like VIPs every moment throughout the trip. Everyone one of [the art team] were absolutely amazing. They balanced a level of professionalism with a level of comfort, ease and genuine friendly rapport with the guests that I believe is a very difficult skill to master. In addition, they all were incredibly knowledgeable about all of the art pieces and never tired of our endless stream of questions and requests. They really went above and beyond to make us feel like VIPs. One member of the art team sat on the floor of the gallery with me for almost an hour as I stared at several Miro lithographs discussing my preferences for each one. Another member of the team hauled pieces of art out from storage on the ship just so we could look at them in person. And most surprisingly, I even had to call one of the team members in their room on their one 'day off' (we didn't have any auctions or meeting or dinners scheduled for this day) and this team member STILL got back to me in a very timely manner. This team REALLY went above and beyond and every aspect of this trip had us feeling like complete and total VIPs. Having the opportunity to meet the artists was an even bigger surprise and an unforgettable experience. Now, three months later, Joe and I are still in contact with all 3 artists we met on the VIP cruise. In addition, during this cruise we had the opportunity to expand our collection adding another Miro as well as two Dominic Pangborn's, a Yaacov Agam and a Fanch Ledan. It is so exciting to see our art collection grow and expand thanks to Park West Gallery. One thing I would like to take a special moment to note is how significant it was to both me and my husband that we were not ignored by any team member of either art team (the Epic or the VIP team on the Gem). My husband and I are both very young (both of us are still in our 20's) and it's understandable to assume that we are probably just 'lookyloos' or simply there for the free champagne. ;) However, not once were we passed over or treated as though we were unimportant or 'too young' to be potential customers. It was this respect and attention that both surprised and impressed us even further with your art teams. We now consider ourselves official 'art collectors' and are enjoying our new (and growing) art collection very much. None of this would be possible without the tireless efforts of your amazing art teams and your mission to make the art world more accessible to the everyday individual. My husband and I both just wanted to write and send our highest praise to both art teams that we have had the pleasure of meeting so far and to thank you for creating such an amazing gallery. We eagerly look forward to enjoying many more experiences with Park West Gallery in the future and can't wait to see how you and your team members will continue to surpass our expectations. Our fondest wishes and appreciation,” Kimberly & Joe M. (Proud VIP Park West Gallery members) Laguna Niguel, California _____ "We would like to thank you for inviting us for the experience of a lifetime! To meet and mingle with the artists showcased by Park West Gallery was really a thrill. It was so very interesting to learn and appreciate what goes on in an artist’s mind as he creates his work. All of the artist’s works were amazing and so were their stories. Our group of 50 or so was fascinating also – to meet people from so varied places. Not to mention the staff... Everyone was so friendly and helpful. And, we appreciated that we never felt any pressure to buy. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to join your group!" Gloria & Eliot L. Fort Lee, New Jersey _____ "Thank you for a new love in our lives — fine art. Our foray started on board a cruise ship, attending one of Park West Gallery's fun, educational auctions. We purchased some art and really enjoyed it. On our next cruise we learned more and collected more. We enjoy your auctioneers and support staff. They are passionate, helpful, friendly and hard working. We recently had the pleasure of being guests on the Park West Galleries VIP cruise on Norwegian Sun. Thank you very much for this experience. We had a wonderful time! The team did an excellent job of making us feel welcome and special. They amplified the qualities we enjoyed on our other cruises; more passion, more information, exposure to much more art. Meeting the artists — Alex Gockel, Scott Jacobs and Marko Mavrovich — was an © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 13 Park West® Clients cont. / 2012 PARK WEST® CLIENTS experience we will always be grateful for. Hearing their stories made the art more meaningful and gave us some good insight into the artistic process. Our appreciation for fine art and our desire to collect has grown by leaps and bounds. We are very pleased with our purchases so far and are so excited to get our newest purchase — a beautiful original Ilyayev. You have made a customer forever." Chuck, Tracy & Rachel B. League City, Texas _____ "I just wanted to send a quick thank you to you, and all your staff, for your patience, understanding and assistance in making sure we not only received the painting we wanted in proper condition, but to have gone the extra step to insure the proper framing. business is built, they not only provide exceptional customer service but also build relationships. And what can't I say about [the assistants]?? They were so sweet and nice!! Talked to them a lot too. Bravo, keep up the great work and I look forward to dealing with Park West Gallery." I am very excited about getting my artwork in two months. But I could not wait to tell you guys that you have the best group of staff. They knew our names right away, noticed I hung around a certain piece and just made the viewing/buying a really positive experience, without being pushy or demanding like regular 'sales' people. Ted I. Great Neck, New York _____ "All items have arrived in our order that you so patiently helped us with. We are delighted with them and with the framing. We still have a few to hang, and some cartons to get rid of, otherwise we're just enjoying the added stimulation in our condo. We finally received the art in the desired frame today, and could not be happier. The empty wall space that was waiting for it, is now perfectly filled. Once again, a sincere thanks to all. Also want to tell you that Park West Gallery's website is really good! Shopping with it is a still further way we have bought from you, beyond cruise auctions (that got us started), a VIP land auction, and the VIP cruise to the Mexican Riviera. We've recommended the website to our friends to use for enjoyment and hope they will also do some buying. It has so much information on artists and wide choice of works to choose from! I am honored to say I worked with and purchased my art from the Park West Gallery." We certainly appreciate Park West Gallery and your help!" Patti A. & Vern E. Gibsonton, Florida Evans & Nancy R. Knoxville, Tennessee _____ _____ "Wanted to drop a quick note to commend your Customer Service staff. “Our cruise on Carnival Victory was truly enhanced by the art auctions. The auctioneer was easily one of the best I’ve listened to on a cruise ship. He shared a depth of knowledge that was truly helpful. I’ve already had most of it framed and hung and the whole family is enjoying the art." The professionalism of your customer service people not only makes me feel comfortable and trust you but makes me excited to purchase from you because I know there are no problems only quick solutions. I was a Managing Director for a very large multinational company; Customer Service was one of the areas under my control. This tends to make me critical, but I applaud your people as they truly understand what exceptional customer service is and are truly the foundation upon which your 14 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Gerald S. Barbados _____ "OMG - You guys have the BEST staff ever! I must have talked [the auctioneer's] ear off for the three days leading up to the auction. He was attentive, interested and very nice. I am definitely going to recommend you guys to people and hope [your staff is] rewarded, because they earned the recognition!!!" Sonia F. Los Angeles, California _____ "On behalf of my daughter Sophia and I, we would like to thank you, Park West Gallery and all the people involved in making this cruise a memorable one for years to come. We all felt that we were given nothing less than first-class treatment by you and the staff on board. My daughter and I have been exclusive collectors from Park West Gallery for over 10 years now and intend to be for a long time to come. We admired the expert information and opinions that were given to all of us. Thank you very much and we hope to see you all again in the near future." Benny Q. Pine Bush, New York _____ "Please convey to Morry, Albert and Mitsie, and all of the people associated with the August auction event at the Henry, we were thrilled with the artists and the access to them. Everyone treated us like royalty. We were not expecting this type of event. Again, thank you for the invitation and the hospitality." Lynn & Bonnie B. Latrobe, Pennsylvania Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS You can purchase our art in our galleries in Southfield, Michigan, Miami Lakes, Florida, aboard many cruise ships and at world class resorts through our event locations. Arizona Biltmore Known throughout the world as the "Jewel of the Desert," Arizona Biltmore provides a restful oasis of 39 acres covered with lush gardens, glistening swimming pools, and Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced architecture. Set in the heart of Phoenix, the hotel has been a favorite of celebrities and U.S. presidents throughout its colorful history. The Balboa Bay Club & Resort, California Escape to this waterfront paradise, a world-class destination along the California Rivera. Reminiscent of an Italian villa in grace and charm, this Mediterraneanstyle Four-Diamond resort is the only waterfront resort in Newport Beach, and enjoys stunning bay views and sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. The Resort was recognized as one of the Top 500 Hotels in the World by Travel + Leisure Magazine, and is the only Newport Beach hotel on this exclusive list. Barton Creek Resort, Texas Like the Hill Country that surrounds this luxury resort hotel, Barton Creek is known for its distinctive combination of peaceful beauty and gracious warmth. Nestled within 4,000 secluded acres of rolling hills just outside the gem that is Austin, Texas, Barton Creek creates a magical escape as unique as every sunset and as timeless as the hills themselves. Belterra Casino Resort, Indiana A casino, resort, and spa, Belterra is known for their personal touch. Boasting one of the best public golf courses and amenities like pools, shopping, and a salon that will endlessly pamper you, Belterra also has an array of dining experiences from steakhouses and grills to an atrium café, coffee shop, and ice cream parlor. Don’t forget about the casino – new events are held every weekend, sure to spark a fun-filled night of entertainment. The Boca Raton Resort & Club, Florida The Boca Raton Resort & Club has an iconic legacy of more than 80 years. Designed by Addison Mizner and described as having a “barefoot elegance”, the club accommodations provide dazzling views and impeccable furnishings. The resort’s glamorous and exciting amenities range from outdoor Florida adventures like lying on the beach or pool, enjoying the marina or golf course, to shopping or exploring the nightlife and entertainment. With almost a dozen dining options and an incredible venue for events and weddings, modern luxury is brought to new heights. Carnival Cruise Line In 2009, Park West opened a new art gallery with a new art program on Carnival's newest ship, the Carnival Dream. Park West has operated galleries and art auctions on Carnival Cruise Line ships since 1998. ® © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 15 Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Cesars Palace, Las Vegas Cesar’s reputation precedes it, known as the grandest of all Las Vegas resorts. More than 129,000 square feet, Cesar’s also boasts 26 restaurants and bars, shopping, nightlife, salons, spas, and entertainment. Last but not least is the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis, consisting of six pools surrounded by relaxing cabanas and sunbathing spots. From sprawling out on daybeds and chaise lounges to playing blackjack and drinking whisky sours in the pool, this oasis collection provides everything. The Chateau Elan Inn, Georgia The Chateau Elan Resort, a 16th century style French château, and a luxury Four Diamond leisure destination is situated on 3,500 gorgeous acres. It is the only resort in Georgia that includes a 200 acre vineyard, a full-production winery, European spa, equestrian show center, tennis center, seven restaurants and 63 holes of championship golf. Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa, Missouri One of the world's most extraordinary resort destinations, Chateau on the Lake is Branson, Missouri's only AAA Four-Diamond Hotel, Spa & Convention Center. Standing on a beautiful Ozark mountaintop, overlooking the pristine waters of Table Rock Lake, this extraordinary hotel combines modern luxury with traditional charm to create an experience that is both elegant and exciting. Doubletree by Hilton Metropolitan, New York A modern landmark with a contemporary twist, this hotel resides on the east side of Midtown Manhattan, blocks from Grand Central Station, Central Park, fabulous shopping, Broadway, and world-class museums. If you’re looking for a bit of history, in 1955, standing in front of this building on a subway vent, Marilyn Monroe’s famous white dress was windblown by the train below her, infamously caught on film for the rest of history. Eaglewood Resort & Spa, Chicago From the moment you arrive at Eaglewood Resort & Spa, you feel the warmth of a relaxing resort destination away from the hectic city pace but conveniently close to downtown Chicago and O'Hare International Airport. Everything at Eaglewood Resort & Spa is designed to balance pleasure and productivity – from the IACC-certified function space and championship golf course, to impressive dining, spa and fitness options. French Lick Springs Hotel, Indiana Established in 1845, the tradition lives on at the historic French Lick Springs Hotel. The healing “miracle waters” of the hotel’s nearby sulfur springs attract visitors from around the world. Guests will step back in time as they experience the famed charm and grandeur of this luxurious Indiana hotel. 16 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Four Seasons Resort & Club Dallas at Las Colinas Four Seasons Resort, surrounded by 400 rolling acres of North Texas hills, and just minutes from downtown Dallas. Four Seasons is the only Five Diamond resort in Texas, and offers irresistible leisure activities – from an award-winning spa to two championship golf courses and lagoon-style outdoor swimming pools – to enhance the experience for every guest. Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, Florida On South Florida’s finest sweep of sun-splashed beach, Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach offers a haven of easy tropical elegance – graced by silken sand, gently swaying palms and the sparkling Atlantic. The ultimate in comfortable chic, Four Seasons is one of the most celebrated gathering spots in this fabled Florida community. Four Seasons Resort - The Biltmore Santa Barbara Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, situated in the heart of the American Riviera. The Spanish Colonial style resort is surrounded by 20 acres of lush landscaping that includes thousands of tropical plants. Guest accommodations are oversized and luxuriously appointed, making The Biltmore a favored retreat of old Hollywood and America's elite since 1927. Four Seasons Seattle Embodying the natural character and relaxed confidence of the Pacific Northwest, Four Seasons Seattle blends city sophistication and outdoor adventure. With prime convenience to the downtown waterfront, the location is in the heart of business and shopping – just steps away from the Seattle Art Museum and Pike Place Market. Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Washington DC Just minutes outside of Washington, DC, Gaylord National Hotel & Convention Center is a jewel of the capital region, offering visitors everything for a first-class weekend getaway. Welcoming guests to the resort is a spectacular 18-story glass atrium featuring sweeping views of the Potomac River, Washington, DC and Old Town Alexandria. Gaylord Palms Resort, Florida Located just 1.5 miles from the front gate of Walt Disney World , Gaylord Palms Hotel brings excitement to life through world-class restaurants, dynamic on-site recreation, and breathtakingly beautiful gardens. This sun-drenched and spectacular Orlando hotel was built in the sumptuous style and grandeur of a turn-of-the-century Florida mansion, but offers modern amenities and deluxe accommodations. ® © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 17 Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, Wisconsin One of the nation's premier vacation destinations, Grand Geneva Resort is historic Lake Geneva’s only Four Diamond hotel. This beautiful Wisconsin resort, conveniently located between Chicago and Milwaukee, offers two championship golf courses, indoor and outdoor tennis, hiking paths, and superb guest accommodations. Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa, North Carolina Guests of Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa will enjoy a relaxing getaway at one of the South's most venerable and famous grand resorts. Built in 1913 from granite stones mined from Sunset Mountain, the North Carolina resort overlooks the glimmering Asheville skyline and provides majestic views of the legendary Blue Ridge Mountains. The Henry, Michigan In the fall of 2010 Park West opened a gallery in the Henry. Park West art is on display throughout this beautiful art themed hotel. The Henry is located just minutes from the historic Henry Ford History museum and Greenfield Village. The Henry offers luxury accommodations and world-class dining. In the "Gallery Restaurant," guests will experience “The Art of Dining Well” surrounded by fine art from Park West Gallery . ® ® ® Holland America Cruise Line Holland America Cruise Line’s fleet of 15 ships offers more than 500 cruises to 350 ports on all seven continents. In 2011, Park West launched its popular art auction program on 10 Holland America Cruise Line ships. Hotel Galvez & Spa, Texas Just steps away from the magnificent Gulf of Mexico, Hotel Galvez & Spa is where sun and surf meet century-old splendor. The charming beach front Texas hotel was built in 1911 and has undergone a total renovation to capture its original glamour. Guests of this historic Galveston property will understand why Hotel Galvez was nicknamed the “Queen of the Gulf” nearly 100 years ago. Hotel Victor, Miami Beach, Florida A beautiful representation of the Miami art deco style, this is a sophisticated hotel with a history of more than seventy five years. Now modernized and luxurious, the accommodations present custom-made fabrics and furniture by Jacques Garcia. Each suite is personalized with various features, some suites styled with outdoor rain showers, private terraces, cabanas, lounges, and dazzling ocean views. Dining options include restaurants, cafes, and bars throughout the hotel and terrace plus the in-house Spa V has more than 6,000 feet of space to relax and rejuvenate. 18 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Hyatt Bellevue, Washington One of Seattle’s premier luxury hotels. Located on the city’s desirable Eastside, this sophisticated hotel offers unparalleled service, elegant surroundings and breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest, all setting the tone for an exceptional guest experience. Stroll through connecting sky bridges and discover more than 250 shops, 45 restaurants and lounges and plenty of entertainment options harbored inside this chic urban streetscape. Hyatt Regency Boston, Massachusetts Enjoy spending time with artists and fellow collectors at Hyatt Regency Boston, located in the heart of downtown’s vibrant Financial and Theater Districts. Elegant accommodations, deluxe amenities and expansive guest services typify Hyatt Regency Boston. Experience the excitement of the city, tour the Freedom Trail, shop at Faneuil Hall, visit museums, or catch a game at Fenway Park; it’s all just minutes from this award-winning hotel. Hyatt Regency Crown Center, Missouri Genuine smiles and personalized attention ensure a stay at the inviting Hyatt Regency Crown Center is exceptional, from start to finish. With a unique blend of Midwestern warmth and a prime location in the heart of Kansas City, the Hyatt provides renowned service and amenities that have made it the outstanding choice among Missouri hotels. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa, Texas A world of timeless charm awaits at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa. Building upon its heritage as Rogers - Wiseman Ranch, the casually luxurious Texas hotel is the perfect blend of AAA Four Diamond pampering in an inviting setting. Exquisite amenities, championship golf, a world-class spa and unmatched service make this the unsurpassed choice among San Antonio resorts. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, Texas The expansive Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is located on 405-acres of rugged Texas wilderness, and features distinctively approachable luxury where jeans and business suits intermingle with ease. Hyatt Regency Minneapolis Situated in the heart of the Twin Cities, Hyatt Regency Minneapolis allows easy exploration of an incredible array of attractions, from shopping to sports and anything in between. With renowned dining, an exciting new health club, premier accommodations, and enchanting views of the city and sights, Hyatt Regency Minneapolis is the outstanding choice among Minnesota hotels. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 19 Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa & Marina, California The luxurious Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa & Marina has become the unparalleled choice for discerning travelers. This San Diego resort hotel is the epitome of California coastal chic, with incredible ocean views, waterfront dining, a contemporary poolside lounge and an eco-friendly spa, all in a premier location close to famous sights and attractions such as Sea World. Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel & Spa, Rhode Island Located on the renowned yachting destination Narragansett Bay, Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel & Spa has something for everyone. An escape from the ordinary, this picturesque resort is the perfect combination of New England culture and luxury retreat. Guests can immerse in the relaxing atmosphere of the award-winning Stillwater Spa, or take in some of Newport’s famed activities while visiting the beautiful “City by the Sea.” Hyatt Regency North Dallas, Texas Travelers will enjoy state-of-the-art luxury, upscale contemporary decor and sumptuous guestrooms at Hyatt Regency North Dallas, conveniently located in the Richardson high-tech corridor. The exciting North Dallas hotel features all the special amenities sophisticated travelers need, along with legendary Texas hospitality and the exemplary Hyatt Touch guests expect. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, California The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, Hidden in the golden foothills of Old California and just four miles inland from the Pacific, this romantic Spanish style property overlooks 23 pristine acres of rolling hills, bridle trails and winding pathways that inspire nature lovers, sunset lovers and romantics of all ages. The Island Resort, Newport Beach, California Get the full California experience at the Island Hotel. Bask in the glorious Pacific Ocean views of Newport Harbor. Relax in the Italianwoven linens, enjoy their signature revitalizing spa treatments, and indulge at the Palm Terrace Lounge and Restaurant. With an accessible golf course, fitness and recreation, shopping and entertainment, there will never be a dull moment on the Island – unless you want one. The Jefferson Hotel, Richmond, Virginia The Jefferson Hotel, recognized by discerning travelers as Richmond's grandest hotel and one of the finest in America since 1895. Known for its genuinely friendly service, luxurious guestrooms, breathtaking architecture and elegant décor, the Hotel is reminiscent of a more gracious era. Centrally located in the heart of downtown, The Jefferson is just blocks from the state capital, historic Shockoe Slip, the Richmond Convention Center and Richmond’s financial district. 20 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS JW Marriott Chicago The JW Marriott Chicago, the epitome of refined elegance. This premier luxury hotel is the largest of its kind in Chicago, soaring above skyscrapers in the heart of one of the world’s most powerful financial districts. Discover this landmark downtown Chicago hotel, located in the Loop, near State Street, Millennium Park, Magnificent Mile and historic Chicago museums. La Torretta Resort & Spa, Texas Just an hour north of downtown Houston, nestled along the shores of beautiful 22,000 acre Lake Conroe, La Torretta Resort & Spa is a world apart from the bustle of city life, and a unique gem blending modern luxury and Texas comfort. Guests of this AAA Four Diamond Texas Resort can expect to find a contemporary lakeside retreat balancing nature, relaxation and world-class sophistication The Lansdown Resort, Leesburg, Virginia The only AAA Four Diamond-rated, full-service resort in the Northern Virginia and Washington, DC area, The Lansdowne Resort is a mid-Atlantic destination that surpasses expectations. Perfect for upscale events, large gatherings, and intimate weddings, the resort provides a completely custom experience without giving up the luxury. Awardwinning facilities like the Spa Minérale, the championship golf course, and five restaurants and lounges provide an escape unsurpassed by any other resort in the area. Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort Natural splendor meets luxurious accommodations at Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort. Guests can enjoy championship golf, exquisite cuisine, rejuvenating spa treatments, and water sports galore at this magnificent desert hotel. Rooms and suites feature sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains, all within reach of the glitz and glamour of the Strip. Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas At the heart of Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay presents premier access to entertainment, relaxation, and even a 1.6 million gallon Shark Reef Aquarium. The rooms, designed in rich, earthy tones, permit a perfect night’s sleep with triple-thread count sheets and plasma TV’s. With more than seven clubs and lounges, nearby golf courses, shops, and fitness centers, there’s always something happening at Mandalay Bay. Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Pennsylvania The luxurious Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, one of only 6 hotels and resorts in the world to host Forbes Five-Star, AAA FiveDiamond lodging and dining. Situated on 2,000 mountain acres in the Laurel Highlands of western Pennsylvania, the award-winning resort boasts amenities that include two championship golf courses, fine dining and an acclaimed spa. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 21 Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Norwegian Cruise Line In 2010, Park West ® opened a new art gallery with a new art program on Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, the NCL EPIC. Park West has maintained galleries and been conducting art auctions on all NCL vessels since 2003. Paradise Point Resort & Spa, California On a private 44-acre island tucked away on gentle Mission Bay, Paradise Point Resort & Spa is minutes from the heart of downtown San Diego and adjacent to the famous SeaWorld Adventure Park. This San Diego luxury resort features comfortable, California beach bungalow-style guest rooms amidst lush, tropical gardens and meandering lagoons. Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, California On Southern California’s sun-drenched Pacific coast just north of San Diego, Park Hyatt Aviara Resort lies on the north shore of Batiquitos Lagoon – a vast protected wildlife sanctuary and an enclave of natural beauty. From atop the highest ridge, overlooking the ocean and the lagoon, this AAA Five Diamond luxury resort provides a respite from the ordinary. Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort, Colorado The extraordinary Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort & Spa is a magnificent chateau-style Vail resort that incorporates the grandeur of its idyllic Colorado Rocky Mountain setting. Reminiscent of a modern mountain lodge, guests will delight in the warm Beaver Creek accommodations that set the standard for year-round Vail luxury hotel destinations. Regent Seven Seas Cruises The ships of Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer voyages of exploration and discovery to more than 300 ports on all seven continents. The ambiance on board is personal, individual, accommodating - "upscale but not uptight." Park West has operated galleries and art auctions on Regent Cruise Line ships since 2005. Renaissance Westchester Hotel, New York The Renaissance Westchester, a New York hotel that expertly combines luxury and nature. Nestled on 30 acres of scenic countryside in Westchester County, this historic resort hotel offers a timeless elegance amongst its beautiful natural surroundings. Renaissance Westchester is conveniently located near historic Hudson Valley attractions, premier shopping and challenging golf courses. 22 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, Colorado The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, embodying Rocky Mountain luxury and the adventurous, pioneering spirit of the American West. This year-round destination on Beaver Creek Mountain offers guests an unforgettable escape in the heart of the majestic Rockies. Boasting unparalleled ski-in/ski-out access, an exclusive partnership with Colorado’s highest-rated golf courses, a world-class spa and fine dining at Wolfgang Puck’s renowned Spazgo, The Ritz-Carlton in Beaver Creek is a luxurious and revitalizing retreat. Ritz-Carlton, Boston Common The Ritz-Carlton, Boston Common, a unique experience combining contemporary sophistication and classic charm awaits you at this award-winning Boston hotel. A short walk to the historic Freedom Trail and Faneuil Hall Marketplace and just steps from the Theatre District and picturesque Boston Common, this luxury hotel is the perfect spot to take in all the culture and history the city has to offer. Ritz-Carlton Charlotte, North Carolina Urbane and sophisticated, yet warm and friendly, the Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte offers guests an unforgettable experience just steps from the city’s cultural heart. This luxury hotel features exceptional amenities, outstanding dining choices, dramatic skyline views, a penthouse Spa & Wellness Center, and a commitment to sustainable luxury travel rarely seen in a contemporary urban hotel. Ritz-Carlton, Coconut Grove, Florida Often called an urban retreat, the Ritz Carlton in Coconut Grove is a neighborhood escape with a villa-like ambience. Melding Venetian stucco, glossy marble floors, and romantic touches like cozy fireplaces and ever-blooming roses, this resort will pamper you whether you’re staying for business or leisure. From the balconies overlooking verdant Miami to the variety of vibrant local events, guests can choose to explore downtown or retreat into the heart of the resort. Ritz-Carlton, Dallas As one of the premier hotels in the heart of trendy Uptown, RitzCarlton, Dallas is situated amidst gourmet dining, upscale shopping, pro sports, live entertainment, parks and gardens and the largest urban arts community in the U.S. The stylish, contemporary, hotel features an opulent spa, a multi-venue restaurant, and is where glamour, graciousness and the Texas spirit meet. Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, Arizona Nestled in the high Sonoran Desert against the Tortolita Mountains, the Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain features a destination spa, adventure programs, world-class hiking, Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf, indoor and outdoor dining, and richly appointed accommodations in a striking canyon setting. This distinctive resort in Tucson is a place where adventure and a gracious spirit come to life. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 23 Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples The exceptionally luxurious Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples boasts two Greg Norman-designed championship golf courses, world-class dining, a relaxing spa and spacious suites, all set on the breathtakingly beautiful Paradise Coast of Florida. The Naples resort was ranked by Travel + Leisure readers among the best 50 hotels in the U.S. in August 2010. Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, California The stunning Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay provides a magnificent backdrop for the perfect Northern California coast vacation. This elite golf and spa resort combines modern convenience with the history of old Scotland. Guests can enjoy innovative cuisine in the ocean-view restaurants, championship golf courses and miles of walking trails at the most romantic setting in Northern California. Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, located high in the magnificent Sierra Nevada Mountains. At this sophisticated Northern California mountain retreat, you’ll discover the pristine beauty of the crystal-clear Lake Tahoe and this breathtaking region. Featuring ski-in-ski-out access, a luxurious spa and championship golf, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe is an exceptional four-season resort hotel. Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation, Georgia Amidst the engaging backdrop of verdant hills and towering pines, on stunning Lake Oconee, sits the elegant Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation. At this Georgia luxury resort, guests are treated with gracious Southern hospitality, and can enjoy golfing on championship courses, a relaxing day of fishing or unwind at the spa. Ritz-Carlton Marina Del Rey,California Enjoy the warmth of the waterfront, as a getaway at the Marina awaits you in sun-drenched Southern California. This luxury hotel lies close to Venice Beach and Malibu, allowing visitors easy access to the area’s numerous desirable attractions and opportunities. As one of the premier luxury hotels near Santa Monica, The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey is located less than five miles from Los Angeles International Airport and is surrounded by fine dining, upscale shopping and an array of recreational and entertainment options. Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia At The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia, you'll take in all the sights and sounds of this amazing city in a spectacular historic building. This urban sanctuary in Center City wows by combining a historic lobby with the modern touches of today. Stay in one of America’s most venerable cities and absorb the character of landmark buildings like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and other cultural treasures. 24 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix The Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix, a premier hotel in the Southwest. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Camelback Corridor, the city's shopping, dining and financial district, this elegant luxury hotel features well appointed guest rooms and suites, exceptional dining options, beautiful outdoor areas and much, much more. Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, where the casual Gulf Coast lifestyle meets the sophisticated, cosmopolitan excitement of the city. Featuring exceptional dining, a luxurious spa, championship golf, lavish accommodations and sweeping bay and city views, this AAA Five-Diamond resort provides a relaxing escape from the everyday. Visitors can also enjoy the "Sunset Experience" on the sands of the Hotel’s Sarasota Beach, recently named one of the Top 10 Beaches in the country by TripAdvisor.com. Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis Discover The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis and experience one of the premier downtown St. Louis hotels. This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Clayton, a thriving business district filled with elegant residences and an extensive selection of restaurants and galleries. Boasting the city’s legendary Midwestern hospitality and energetic soul, hotel guests will enjoy exceptional dining, luxurious suites and impeccable service. Ritz-Carlton, Westchester, New York The Ritz-Carlton, Westchester, Minutes from Manhattan and yet miles from ordinary. The intimate hotel marries sophisticated elegance and legendary Mobil Four Star service with unparalleled value. As one of the best hotels in New York, The Ritz-Carlton immerses its guests in all the luxury and cultural heritage that is Westchester County. Salishan Spa and Golf Resort, Oregon Designed for comfort and convenience while striking a symbiotic balance with nature, the lavish Salishan Spa & Golf Resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind on the Oregon coast. Nestled between the beach and the bluffs on Siletz Bay, with rustic elegance and casual sophistication, this resort is the ultimate upscale yet intimate experience. The Seelbach Hilton, Louisville The Seelbach Hilton Hotel is located in the heart of downtown Louisville, just minutes from Churchill Downs. Built in 1905, The Seelbach is a landmark to "the golden era" with its grand ambiance inspiring author F. Scott Fitzgerald to use it as a backdrop for Tom and Daisy Buchanan's wedding in “The Great Gatsby.” Appearing on the National Register of Historical Places, this premiere 4-diamond luxury hotel offers genteel, Southern hospitality amongst historic grandeur. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 25 Locations / 2012 LOCATIONS Sunriver Resort, Oregon Located near the breathtaking Cascade Mountain range, Sunriver Resort offers a unique Oregon vacation experience in a serene, natural setting. Sunriver has become the Pacific Northwest's finest resort community, offering premium accommodations and year-round worldclass recreational opportunities – an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The Thayer Hotel at West Point, New York Perched on a hilltop in Upstate New York, with commanding views of the Hudson River and Military Academy, Thayer Hotel West Point is a national historic treasure, visited by U.S. Presidents, international leaders, and celebrities. With its array of modern comforts and amenities, this landmark hotel is a true monument to impeccable style and service. Townsend Hotel, Michigan With its splendid combination of amenities, unparalleled service and elegant setting, the 4-Star, AAA 4-Diamond Townsend Hotel in Birmingham offers impeccable European refinement with the indulgence of unsurpassed American luxury. At the hotel’s Rugby Grille, named Zagat’s "Best Restaurant in Michigan,” guests can savor award-winning cuisine while surrounded by fine art from Park West Gallery. Vintage Inn, Napa Valley, California Nestled among the rolling vineyards of the Napa Valley wine region is the affordable luxury of Vintage Inn on the 23-acre Vintage Estate, just steps from the dining tables of America's most celebrated chefs in the legendary epicurean walking town of Yountville. Discover the quiet romance of lavender and lilies swaying in the gentle breeze and the splendor of waterways flowing through lush green gardens of what Sunset Magazine calls "an inn that’s more like a French chateau". The W New Orleans Conveniently located just steps from the French Quarter, Harrah’s Casino and the Warehouse District, W New Orleans is ideally situated in a quieter location for a peaceful night’s rest. Legendary restaurants, incredible jazz and the best of the notorious nightlife surround this chic hotel, the perfect spot to indulge the senses in The Big Easy. Westin Crown Center, Kansas City, Missouri The Westin Crown Center, located in the heart of downtown Kansas City. Midwestern hospitality infuses every moment of your stay at this AAA Four Diamond hotel, whose features include five-star dining, a heated swimming pool, sauna, and tennis courts. Hallmark's Crown Center, a city within a city, offers guests 85 acres of shops, restaurants, and theatres—all of which can be accessed from within the hotel. 26 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® A Brief Guide to Artist Techniques / 2012 A BRIEF GUIDE TO ARTIST TECHNIQUES Types of Paints, Painting materials and techniques Oil: A type of paint made with natural oils, such as linseed, walnut, or poppy, as the medium to bind the pigment (color). Oil painting, the traditional technique employed by artists for centuries is typically applied to canvas, linen, paper, or wood. Acrylic: The substance that binds the pigment (color) is a synthetic resin, rather than natural oils (as in above). Acrylic painting has the advantage of drying faster than oil paint. This modern technique is in widespread use today by artists internationally, and can be applied to canvas, linen, paper, or wood. Tempera: A water-base painting medium which has been employed for centuries, typically bound with egg yolks. It is applied primarily to paper or paper-board. Watercolor: A transparent painting medium, using ground pigment mixed with water. Most often using the whiteness of the paper in conjunction with the transparency of the pigment (color) to create effects. A highly difficult medium to master, watercolor dries very quickly, and requires a great degree of practice. Gouache: A medium similar to watercolor, but heavier, because of a gum substance added to the ground pigment (color) and water. Most often applied to paper. Pastel: A type of dried paste made of pigments ground with chalk and compounded with gum water. Gesso: A material used to prime a canvas or linen surface, which allows it to accept the paint more readily and not be absorbed into the canvas. It can also be applied to wood and sanded to create a fine and smooth painting surface. Impasto: The application of thick paint to the surface of the canvas or board to build up the textures. Can be applied with brush, or a palette knife. Glazing: The opposite of impasto, glazing is done by diluting the pigments and layering one color over another. Lends a softness and delicacy to the surface. It is most effective with an under painted tone, and glazings applied on top. Varnish: A solution (either oil or water-based) applied to a finished painting to cover and protect the work. May be either gloss, satin, or matte finish. Also may be applied purely for aesthetic reasons. Drybrush: The use of a small amount of pigment on the brush to create a linear application of pigment yielding a range of line characteristics. Scumbling: a shading technique that is created by forcing the brush to open with pressure onto the surface of the canvas or board, creating a loose and textural type of brush stroke. The Creation of an Original Graphic Work Etching: Etching was first used by artists early in the 16th century. The medium is a copper or zinc plate coated with acid-resistant varnish. To produce an illustration, the artist draws lines through the varnish coating. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the drawn lines. When printing, the plate is inked and wiped so that the ink remains only in the etched lines or areas. It is then printed under pressure on dampened paper, producing the plate mark which is common to both etchings and engravings. If more than one color is to be used, a separate plate is made for each color. Aquatint: An intaglio, etching, and tonal printing process in which a porous ground allows acid to penetrate to form a network of small dots in the plate, as well as the impressions made by this process. Aquatints often resemble wash drawings. Any pure whites are stopped out entirely before etching begins, then the palest tints are bitten and stopped out, and so on as in etching. This process is repeated 20 to 30 times until the darkest tones (deepest recesses in the plate) are reached. Engraving: A tool called a burin cuts a design directly into the surface of a metal plate. The plate is inked, placed in a press, a sheet of fine paper is placed over it, and the impression made. Drypoint: An intaglio process in which burrs are left on the plate by the pointed needle that directly inscribes lines. A kind of engraving which has a soft, fuzzy line because of the metal burrs. Its disadvantage is that because such plates wear out quickly, editions are usually limited. Mezzotint: An intaglio process, in which the work is done in two stages. A metal plate is initially grained by working over it systematically with a spiked tool known as the rocker (which has a thick blade with a serrated, semicircular cutting edge). This creates a multitude of fine dots all over its surface. If inked, the plate would create a rich black. The second stage of the process consists in smoothing away parts of the roughened surface with the aid of a scraper and a burnisher in order to create the white and highlighted parts of the resulting image. The scraping of the plate is a skillful job; delicate tonal transitions can be obtained if it is done well, but the flat appearance of some mezzotints is an indication of the difficulties involved. This flatness is also caused by the fact that mezzotint plates wear down very quickly. Color mezzotints can be created with several plates, one for each color. Giclée: The French word Giclée means "spraying of ink". A Giclée print is produced by a very precise spraying of ink. In the Giclée process, an original artwork is digitized. The scan or transparency of the original art is stored in a computer file. This computer is the controlling element of a highly specialized precision ink jet. This jet sprays several million droplets per second onto paper or canvas mounted on a drum that rotates while the spraying is taking place. The material printed upon is normally the type of medium an artist may use for an original painting (watercolor paper or cotton/poly canvas, for instance). © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 27 A Brief Guide to Artist Techniques / 2012 The artist is an integral part of this printing process. A print is made, the artist "red lines" the proof, changes are made and another print is made. This process continues until the artist is satisfied with the result. Once the final settings are decided, the final print is made, approved by the artist and the edition is created. Woodcut: In place of a metal plate, a wooden block is the medium. Similar to the engraving process, a sharp tool to cuts the design into the block’s surface. With a woodcut, all the undesired surface is cut away, leaving only that which constitutes the design. This surface is inked, paper placed over it, and the finished woodcut is the result. If more than one color is to be used, a separate block, or a reduction of an existing block must be used for each color. Serigraph: Most of us are familiar with silk screening,and the process of making serigraphs is similar. A tightly-stretched screen, often of silk, blocks out the areas that are not to be printed by filling the screen mesh with a varnish-like substance. Through the remaining open mesh, ink is forced onto paper under the screen. The finished print is a serigraph. If more than one color is to be used, separate screen work must be used for each color. Serigraphy is often chosen because it allows many opaque or transparent colors to be overlapped. Lithograph: Lithography was discovered in 1798 and Goya was probably the first to make truly memorable use of it. To produce a lithographic print, the artist, or an assistant under the artist's supervision, draws on a limestone slab with a grease crayon or with tusche (liquid ink). Water is spread over the stone and covers only the undrawn areas. Ink is rolled over the stone, adhering to the greasy lines drawn by the artist, but not those areas covered by the water. The final lithograph is a result of printing from a number of stones or plates drawn separately, one for each color in the image. In the art world today, artists use various mediums - from zinc plates to acetate sheets - in creating lithographs. Seriolithograph: A combination of the two print making processes; serigraphy and lithography. Also known as a "seri-lithograph" Monotype: A unique impression on paper printed from a smooth surface such as metal or glass painted in ink by the artist. Collage: A composition made up of various materials such as paper or cloth. Ceramic: A product (earthenware or porcelain) made essentially from a nonmetallic mineral such as clay by firing at a high temperature. Linocut: Print created from a design carved into a piece of linoleum. A Note on Numbering and Signing of Limited editions In each graphic medium, a limited number of impressions are pulled from the plates, stones, blocks, or screens. Each one is first inspected on the actual paper - not on the plate and eventually numbered. The matrix is then defaced or destroyed to ensure that the limited edition stays limited. The numbering is displayed as a fraction, with the bottom number indicating the number of impressions pulled (not including proofs), and the upper number indicating the “serial” or identification number of that individual impression. 28 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® There is some misunderstanding on the significance of the numbering, and it is sometimes assumed that the lower the number, the more valuable the work. Although this may be true of dry point etchings because the burr may wear down, it is not necessarily true of all etchings, lithographs, serigraphs, seriolithographs, or woodcuts. First, the impression may not have been signed in the order they were pulled. Impressions are not normally signed until the entire edition is pulled, dried, trimmed and stacked and it is difficult to always handle the impressions in the order they were pulled. Secondly, as in any new project, the technical assistant does not always learn to get the most from a plate until they have pulled several impressions. Types of Proofs: Artist Proof (AP) or Epreuve d’Artiste (EA) An artist proof is one outside the regular edition but pulled at the same time or after the regular edition from the same plates, blocks, stones, or screens without changes. Sometimes, the artist retains the AP’s for his/her own personal use or sale. They are often released to the market with the numbered edition(s). Along with the numbered impressions in an edition, there are often proof impressions pulled, aside from the regular numbered edition. Printer’s Proof (PP) Proof reserved for the printer and collaborators, but they are often released to the market as well. Hors Commerce (HC) French “Before Trade” A proof typically reserved for the publisher, but they are often released into the market as well. Bon a Tirer (BAT) When the artist is satisfied with the impression from the finished plate, he/she works with the assistant to pull one or several perfect examples and they are marked Bon A Tirer (Good to Pull). The assistant then compares each edition impression with the BAT before being submitted to the artist for approval and signing. Trial Proof (Working Proof) An early proof before the numbered or edition prints. They most often incorporate the artist’s modifications and are generally slightly different from the prints that follow. Progressive Proof (Decomposition) Series of prints taken to show each individual color plate or block as well as the product of the series as a whole, in its complete version. Cancellation Proof A proof taken from a cancelled plate, block or stone, guaranteeing that no cancelled impressions can be pulled. When an entire edition has been completed, the plate, block or stone is effaced or X-ed out. A cancellation proof reflects this. Standard References / 2012 STANDARD REFERENCES A considerable number of old and modern master prints as well as graphic prints by major Twenty-first Century artists have been cataloged and described in various reference books or “catalogues raisonnés.” Several of our catalogue descriptions contain a reference number, which is found after the date in the body of the description. The reference may contain one or more initials followed by a number. Below is a list of the major references and a bibliography listed alphabetically by artist. AGAM Popper, Frank. Agam, New York: Harry N. Abrams, Inc., 1980 (revised edition). Art and Judaism, Jerusalem: Keter Publishing House, 1985. Agam - Beyond the Visible, Gefen Publishing House, (first edition 2003). Agam - Beyond the Visible, Gefen Publishing House, (revised edition 2007). Agam - The Elysee Salon, Centre Pompidou, 2007. Chagall Lithograph Volume III 1962-1968, Andre Sauret, 1969. (includes Mourlot numbers 377-560) Chagall Lithograph Volume IV 1969-1973, Andre Sauret, 1974. (includes Mourlot numbers 561-708) Chagall Lithograph Volume V 1974-1979, Andre Sauret, 1984. (includes Mourlot numbers 709-957) Chagall Lithograph Volume VI 1980-1985, Crown Publisher, 1986. (includes Mourlot numbers 9581102) Agam: Art and Judaism: A Conversation between Yaacov Agam and Bernard Mandelbaum, Keter Publishing House, 1985. Sorlier, Charles, ed. Chagall’s Posters - A Catalogue Raisonne, New York: Crown, 1975. AGAM, RON Ron Agam – At the Wall, Gefen Publishing House Inc., 1998. DURER Bartsch, Adam. Le Peintre-Graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1803-21. BULL Bull, Simon, Celebration of Life, 2001. Kurth, Willi (ed.). The Complete Woodcuts of Albrecht Durer. BRITTO Guggenheim, Eileen Ph D., Colors Around the World, Birkenhalde Verlag, Winterthur, Switzerland, 2006. ERTE Erte at Ninety the Complete Graphics, Balance House, Ltd. (E. P. Dutton), 1982 CHAGALL The Initial “M” refers to Mourlot, the standard reference for Chagall’s lithographic work. There are six volumes. Erte at Ninety-Five the Complete New Graphics The Extended Edition, Balance House, Ltd. (E. P. Dutton), 1987. Chagall Lithograph Volume I 1922-1957, Andre Sauret, 1960. (includes Mourlot numbers 1-191) Chagall Lithograph Volume II 1957-1962, Andre Sauret, 1963. (includes Mourlot numbers 192-376) Erte My Life/My Art an Autobiography, Balance House, Ltd. (E. P. Dutton); Fitzhenry & Whiteside, Ltd., 1989. Designs by Erte Fashion Drawings & Illustrations from “Harper’s Bazar”, Dover Publications, Inc.; General Publishing Company, Ltd.; Constable and Company, Ltd., 1976. Erte Art to Wear the Complete Jewelry, Balance House Book (E. P. Dutton), 1991 FANCH (Francois Ledan) Alson, Peter. The Collected Works of Fanch Ledan. Distributed by Blinder Fine Arts, 1990. Hight, Dr. Eleanor. Fanch The Graphic Work. Park West Gallery , Southfield, MI, 2003. ® ESCHER The Complete Graphic Work of M.C. Escher, Koninklijke Ervin J.J.; Meredith Press, 1960, Holland; 1967, New York M.C. Escher His Life and Complete Graphic Work, Meulenhoff & Co.; Harry N. Abrams, Inc.; Thames and Hudson, Ltd., 1981, Amsterdam; 1982 New York, London GOYA Delteil, Loys. Le Peintre-Graveur Illustre, XIXe Siecle. Vols. XIV-XV, Paris, 1906-30. Gassier, Pierre and Juliet Wilson. The Life and Complete Work of Francisco Goya. New York: Harrison House, 1971. Harris, Tomas. Goya: Engravings and Lithographs, 2 vols. Oxford: Bruno Cassirer, 1964. ICART Louis Icart The Complete Etchings Revised 3rd Edition with New and “Additional Illustrations, Schiffer Publishing Ltd., 1990, 1998. Schmessel, Michael S. and McClinton, Katharine M. Icart, Clarkson N. Potter, Inc., 1976. The Etchings of Louis Icart, Schiffler Publishing, Ltd., 1982. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 29 Standard References / 2012 JACOBS Jacobs, Scott. The Art of Scott Jacobs: The Complete Works, Airbrush Action, Inc, 2009. MEDVEDEV Janson, Anthony F. , Igor Medvedev, The Serigraphs of Igor Medvedev Volumes I and II, Park West Gallery , Southfield, MI 2007. Hind, Arthur M. A Catalogue of Rembrandt’s Etchings. London, 1923. ® Biorklund, George with assistance of Barnard, Osbert H., Rembrandt’s Etchings True or False. Stockholm. 1968. (Library of Congress catalog card #68-55427) Jacobs, Scott. The Motorcycle Art of Scott Jacobs, Airbrush Action, Inc, 2001. MOULY Marcel Mouly. Paris: Edition Ateliers Gourdon, 1990. LEKINFF Joseph Jacobs. Linda Le Kinff: The Graphic Work. Park West Gallery , Southfield, MI 2008. NOAH Creating an Angel: Inspirational Art by Noah. Poetry by Brandon Scott Elrod, Great Flood Publishing inc., 2008. Nowell-Eusticke, G.W., Rembrandts etchings. New York: Hacker Art Books, 1967, 1988 PANGBORN Polackdharry, Steve and Pangborn, Oliver, Evolutionist, Pangborn Design, Ltd., 2009. PINO Pierce, Patricia J., Timeless Visions, Regent Publishing Services Limited, 2006. PICASSO The initials “B” or “BL” refer to Bloch, the standard reference for Picasso’s graphic work and ceramics. RENOIR Stella, Joseph G. The Graphic Work of Renoir: Catalogue Raisonne. London: Humphries. Bloch, Georges. Picasso The Catalogue of the Printed Graphic Work, Volume I 1904-1967. Berne: Kornfeld et Cie, 1984. Delteil, Loys. Le Peintre-Graveur Illustre, XIXe Siecle. Volume XVII. Paris, 1906-30. Bloch, Georges. Picasso The Catalogue of the Printed Graphic Work, Volume II 1966-1969. Berne: Kornfeld et Klipstein, 1977. RUT Damian, Carol Ph D., Helander, Bruce, Tomasz Rut, MAC Fine Art, 2002. Bloch, Georges. Picasso The Catalogue of the Printed Ceramics, Volume III 1949-1971. Berne: Kornfeld et Klipstein, 1972. STEYNOVITZ Meilechson, Alex, Zamy Stevnovitz, Kshatot Arts, Rishon Le Zion, Israel, 1992. ® MARKUS Csaba Markus: Artist and Muses, Dreaming Muse Fine Art Books, 2007. Csaba Markus: Gems and Rhapsodies, Dreaming Muse Fine Art Books, 2004. MAX Riley, Charles L. II, The Art of Peter Max, Harry N. Abrams, 2002 MAILLOL Catalogue Raisonné de L’oeuvre Grave et Lithographie de Aristide Maillol Tome Premier Les Bois, Editions Pierre Cailler, 1965. MIRO The initial “M” refers to Mourlot, the standard reference for Miro’s lithographic work. There are four volumes. Joan Miro Lithographs, Volume I 1930-1952, Tudor Publishing Co., 1972. (includes Mourlot numbers 1-189) Joan Miro Lithographs, Volume II 1953-1963, Leon Amiel Publisher, 1975. (includes Mourlot numbers 190-389) Joan Miro Lithographs, Volume III 1964-1969, Maeght, 1977. (includes Mourlot numbers 390-623) Joan Miro Lithographs, Volume IV 1969-1972, Maeght, 1981. (includes Mourlot numbers 624-870) 30 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Bloch, Georges. Picasso The Catalogue of the Printed Graphic Work, Volume IV 1970-1972. Berne: Kornfeld et Klipstein, 1979. Baer, Brigitte. Picasso: Catalogue Raisonné, Volume I-VII. 1899-1972 Berne: Kornfield 1986-1996 PICOT Cognet, Andre. Jean-Claude Picot. Paris: Editions Atelier Gourdon and Editions Vision sur les Arts, 1985. TARKAY Tarkay. Rutland and Tokyo: Charles E. Tuttle Co., Inc., 1992. Itzchak Tarkay, Works on Paper. New York: Logo Art Corp., 1993. Itzchak Tarkay, The Park West Editions. 48 page color catalog published in 1993 by Park West Gallery , Southfield, Michigan. ® ® Tarkay, The Park West Paintings. 35 page color catalog published in 1994 by Park West Gallery , Southfield, Michigan. ® REMBRANDT Bartsch, Adam. Le Peintre-Graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1803-21. Schwartz, Gary. Rembrandt All the Etchings Reproduced in True Size. London: Oresko Books Ltd., 1977. ® WILLARDSON Disney, Roy, Willardson, David, The Disney Art of David Willardson, Insight Editions, 2008. In The News PARK WEST GALLERY INTRODUCES 40-40-40 POLICY, AN ENHANCED CUSTOMER SERVICE GUARANTEE Yaacov Agam Romero Britto Marcus Glenn Alfred Gockel Thomas Kinkade Csaba Markus Peter Max Dominic Pangborn Itzchak Tarkay Chagall Dali Picasso Rembrandt Renoir ery s 40 years in same today as it was 40 art patrons. Extending that online world can In attendance years ago. We were con- opportunity to 1.2 million Wild, Wild West s arly four dozen vinced that introducing fine art clients has been one of our with anybody sa ho traveled from into the lives of people who proudest accomplishments. thing about anyth e world to cele- did not live in New York, Los are few checks on achievement, as Angeles, or other major mar- AWN : Please name some accountability, and llectors and staff kets with a strong presence of your living artists. So as art dealers re bu ut ly to ea rt ov he ye he ch oto he gu cse is m in po es s cl ry ur ar nvi w es rs ri t. m Bottom row, from left: Simon Bull, Jay Lefkowitz, Mark Kanovich, Victor Spahn, David Najar, th m- Alfred Gockel, Marko Mavrovich, and Dominic Pangborn. p ry Middle row, from left: Wendy Schaffer, Anatole Krasnyansky, Holland Berkley, Albert an Scaglione, Itzchak Tarkay, Morry Shapiro, Csaba Markus, Noah, and Toby Bluth. w ue pi- Top row, from left: Harrison Ellenshaw, Hua Chen, Peter Nixon, Alexander Chen, Kevin Miles, S a se Yuval Wolfson, Jean-Claude Picot, Lisa Grubb, Nano Lopez, Fanch Ledan, Debra Tritico, James Coleman, Charles Lee, Yolanda Glenn, Marcus Glenn, Dick Duerrstein, Andrew Bone, po is si- Tom Murray, and Howard Behrens. h is th th the same chal- of galleries and auction hous- AS: The photograph taken ence by bringing t all galleries face. es would be a successful and at our event (above) shows gether with peopl onse to the market rewarding business. So that’s the more than 40 artists who the computer scre from their phil- what we did and continue to participated in our 40th annd their commit- do through our galleries and niversary celebration. AWN: With so m focus Art World A UGUST 2008 THE INDEPENDENT NEWS SOURCE INTERNATIONAL ARTEXPO MIAMI TO L AUNCH IN DECEMB ER In t er n at i o n al A r t ex p o Mi am i will debut in the Miami Midtown Art District from December 12–14. The trade and consumer show will take place in a 125,000-square-foot pavilion, the same used by Art Miami, December 3–7. Eric Smith, vice president of Summit Business Media’s Art and Framing Group, says, “In today’s economy, and considering PARK WEST GALLERY INTRODUCES 40-40-40 POL ICY, A N ENHA NCED CUSTOMER SATISFA CTION GUA RA NTEE SOUTHFIELD, MI—Park Wes t Gal l er y is introducing a 40-40-40 policy that guarantees the quality and authenticity of every work sold—as the company has done for four decades. Additionally, this new policy offers clients the options of returning a work of art, for any reason, within 40 days THE BUSINESS OF ART Going Once, Going Twice u ALBERT SCAGLIONE PASSED UP A PROMISING CAREER AS A ROCKET SCIENTIST, AND INSTEAD CREATED A HIGH-POWERED ART GALLERY AND AUCTION HOUSE THAT GENERATES NEARLY $500 MILLION IN ANNUAL REVENUE BY MINEHAHA FORMAN PAGE 22 nder a coffered ceiling, striding between illuminated walls adorned with artistic masterpieces, Albert Scaglione is a man on a mission. It's a sunny day outside and he's making sure it stays that way, even indoors, greeting everyone by name as he passes with a welcome smile and a brisk nod. The former truck driver, ROTC reservist, professor, astrophysicist, and now prominent owner of Park West Gallery® in Southfield stops just short of the exit to shake hands with a prominent collector, before leading an intricate tour of the gallery. quarters, Park West® has facili WORLD NEWS nationwide, with a south FloridaART fram factory that's roughly the size of six fo ball fields, a large storage facility Wixom, Mich., and a new gallery op ing in Miami. Their art is even availa at sea. Scaglione has made his affil company, Park West®, a major dr among cruise lines, including Carni Celebrity, and Royal Caribbean, allo ing for international distribution of artwork in 60 countries. Park West® a hosts auctions at hotels such as Radisson, the Marriott, and locally at Park West Gallery © 2012 Park West Gallery ® IN THE NEWS Michigan Chronicle / December 8, 2011............................................33 “Artist Marcus Glenn making his mark” By Andrew Losen U.S. Local Business Association/ July 17, 2008 ................................66 Park West Gallery® Receives 2008 Best of Southfield Award WDIV - TV (NBC - Detroit) / November 28, 2011 ............................... 34 WDIV Voters Named Park West Gallery® "The Best" in Detroit Jewish Telegraphic Agency/ June 7, 2008 ...........................................67 "At 80, Yaacov Agam still vibrant with his artwork and other ideas." The Michigan Citizen / November 27, 2011 ..................................... 35 “Local Child rights activist Lauds Michigan Adoption Law” By Kojo Sankofa NWA World Traveler/ June 1, 2008 ........................................................68 "Figuratively Speaking." By Stephanie Angelyn Casola The Oakland Press / November 23, 2011 ............................................ 36 “Abstract painter pushes the envelope to create art no one's ever seen before" Windsor Star/ May 24, 2008 ....................................................................69 "Buy it because you love it." By Craig Pearson Hometownlife.com / October 10, 2011 ...............................................37 “Gallery paintings impress, not just for show” By S. Kowalsk Oakland Business Review/ May 22, 2008 ............................................70 "Gallery's cruise ship strategy makes splash with art sales." By Mike Scott Art World News / June-July, 2011 .......................................................38 “Park West Named Best Michigan Gallery by 'Official Best Of' Travel Program" Miami Laker/ May 16, 2008............................................................... 71-72 "Albert Molina oversees the largest collection of fine art at the Park West Art Gallery®." By David L. Snelling Art World News / April, 2011 .......................................................... 39-41 “Galleries Benefit From Art Auctions” By Koleen Kaffan The Oakland Press / January, 2008 ...................................................... 73 “Couple gives $25,000 grant to Pontiac shelter” By Diana Dillaber Murray Senior Advocate / April, 2011 ...............................................................42 “Park West Gallery® 'Art with a Heart'.” Metromode / January, 2008 ...............................................................74-76 “The Art of Community Building.” By Amy Whitesall Examiner.com / October 7, 2010..........................................................43 “Park West Gallery voted top art gallery in Detroit area.” By Vito Curcuru DBusiness / November, 2007 ............................................................77-79 “Going Once, Going Twice.” By Minehaha Forman The Oakland Press / September 26, 2010 .........................................44 “Local people have given back to the county” By L. Brooks Patterson Southfield Eccentric / September 2, 2007 ............................................80 “Israeli artist's works on display.” Michigan Chronicle / September 8-14, 2010 ....................................45 “Park West Gallery® donates clothing, art to Grace Centers of Hope” Southfield Sun / August 23, 2007 ...........................................................71 “Art in the City.” By Kristyne E. Demske The Oakland Press / August 16, 2010 .................................................46 “Gallery gives paintings to local shelter.” By Kay Nguyen Grosse Pointe News / August 16, 2007 .................................................82 “Famous Artist Steps in to aid Cornerstone.” By Bob St. John Detroit Free Press - Do Good Detroit blog / August 11, 2010 ..............47 “Park West Gallery® donates 3,500 items of new clothing to non-profits” Detroit Free Press / July 19, 2007 ................................................... 83-84 “Taking art to the People.” By Tom Walsh Southfield Sun / June 18, 2009...............................................................48 "City honors 40 years of Park West Gallery®." By Jennie Miller HOUR DETROIT / June, 2006 & 2005 ....................................................85 “Best of Detroit 2006”, "Best of Detroit 2005" ® Fine Art Magazine / Spring 2009 ...................................................... 49-53 "Park West Gallery® Celebrates 40 Years” The Reminder / April 15, 2009................................................................54 "It's the People You Meet!" By Roger Cathcart Porthole/ April 2009............................................................................. 55-56 "Going once... Going Twice... Buying art at sea with confidence" Jewish News - Detroit / March 2009................................................ 57-58 “Art & Soul” By Khristi Zimmeth WDIV - TV (NBC - Detroit) / September 25, 2008 ...............................59 Park West Gallery named Best Art Gallery in Detroit Filter/Observer & Eccentric / June 17, 2004 .................................. 86-87 “Painted Rock” Hour Detroit / June, 2004 .........................................................................88 “Staying Alive” Plantation Forum / March, 2004 .............................................................89 “Art Auction Raises Money for Kidney Disease.” By Jaime Lynn Deutsch Observer & Eccentric / October 23, 2003 .............................................90 “Peter Max’s Magical Mystery Tour” The Detroit News / September 16, 2003......................................... 91-92 “Art, music make a Dent in funds needed to aid children’s group” By Chuck Bennett ® Centralight / Spring, 2009 ........................................................................60 “Art for all” By Barbara Sutherland Chovanec Press Release / December 18, 2008 .....................................................61 "Park West Gallery® CEO Albert Scaglione delivers commencement address at Central Michigan University - receives honorary degree" Observer & Eccentric / January 16, 2003 ....................................... 93-94 “Gallery Showing” By Linda Chomin NJIT - Alumni Magazine / October 9, 2002 .............................................. 95 “Icons | Albert Scaglione - Crashing Into the Art World” By Sheryl Weinstein Detroit News / March 1, 2000 ................................................................ 96 “Park West® owner uses style to expand gallery.” By Maureen McDonald Press Release/ August 28, 2008.............................................................62 Young Detroiters Meet Muhammad Ali Architectural Digest / July 1994............................................................. 97 “Point of View” PR Newswire / August 13, 2008 .............................................................63 "Park West Gallery® sponsors Cornerstone Schools event at Comerica Park" Detroit News/ April 1993 ......................................................................... 98 “A Picture is Worth a Million Words”. By Maureen McDonald Art World News / August 2008 .......................................................... 64-65 “Park West® Marks 40th Anniversary” The Eccentric Newspapers / November 7, 1991 ......................... 99-100 “Lovely ladies dazzle show of Tarkay art” By Linda Ann Chomin 32 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® December 8, 2011 Artist Marcus Glenn making his mark Southfield-based Marcus Glenn is an artist on the move. He is a featured artist at Park West Gallery, and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History has acquired one of his works to be part of its permanent collection. Glenn, 43, said his mother, herself a landscape artist, was the primary inspiration for his becoming an artist. Other inspirations include Picasso, Romare Bearden, and Jacob Lawrence. He also said his mother always knew he was interested in art, because one of his favorite pastimes was doodling. She encouraged that by keeping pencils and paper in his hands. His kindergarten teacher also tapped into his interest in art when he spearheaded a project in which the students made representations of themselves for a parent-teacher conference. “As the parents would walk into the room, they would see a replica of their kids sitting in the chair,” he said. “We had to bring in our shirts, and we actually made them [the replicas] out of bags.” Glenn recalled that a lot of the other kids came to him for help. “It was kind of cute,” he said, adding that his teacher raved about how he took control of the event, and helped his classmates. The teacher also encouraged Glenn’s parents to nurture his artistic talents. Asked if he had a preferred medium, Glenn said he took sculpture classes, and loves to sculpt. He added that part of his art is “Flat Life,” which derives from him taking a flat surface and bringing it to life through dimension. He started out in oil pants, a medium in which his mother had dabbled. He found, however, that oils took too long to dry. Instead, he went to the speedier medium of acrylics. “You can achieve the same effect with acrylics,” he said. “So at this point in my career, I like working By Andrew Losen, Chronicle Web Editor in the acrylic medium with the collage technique. Which, again, I label Flat Life.” to them,” he said, speaking of the Flat Life piece called “Any Man’s Pain.” A Flat Life work might have a portion of an otherwise flat surface raised to create a threedimensional look. A few years ago, Glenn was one of the featured artists at a Park West Gallery Event curated by the museum. Officials there subsequently decided it would be a good idea to have one of his pieces in their collection. When Glenn first dabbled in the Flat Life technique, he frequented a lot of museums and galleries and studied collage imagery. He also studied the technique of Bas Relief. That particular style intrigued him, so he initially used Styrofoam when he started doing the Flat Life style. “I would carve that, and then I would prime it with a texture, and then I would lay fabrics on to of it and glue it to a wood surface,” he said. “At the time, no other artist was doing that particular style of art to that degree. I mean I’ve seen dimensional art in a collage, even to the point where most artists would glue known objects to the surface of the canvas, but for me, I was creating my surfaces.” “It was different,” he added. “everything was technical in the aspect of not just taking objects and throwing them and gluing them, but actually having an effect on everything that went into the composition.” Despite Michigan’s uncertain economy, Glenn said he tries to keep a positive outlook. He added that being with Park West Gallery, which sets up venues in different states and cities, and also has a presence on cruise ships, has helped. “You don’t necessarily target your market locally,” he said. Glenn and his wife, Yolanda, travel a lot in order to promote his art. He is not a big lover of travel but she is. His long-term goals are to continue to explore his creativity as an artist. He also said that what he does in the art community is a great responsibility. “I feel that I can be a positive role model for upand-coming artists of all nationalities,” he said. “This is a tough business to crack into, to be able to say that you live, eat and pay your bills solely on your art.” A lot of his work features jazz in some way. Glenn said his father was an avid jazz listener. He also has three older sisters, and said he found women to be an inspiring subject matter in his paintings. Glenn has been working as full-time artist for 12 years. Prior to that, he worked at Chrysler, and for a period of about five years he juggled working at Chrysler and selling his art before he made the decision to focus on being a full-time artist. Some painting feature multicolored floorboards. Glenn said they reflect the variety of God’s creations, athat they’re like a spiritual foundation of his art. A permanent collection of Marcus Glenn’s work is at Park West Galley, which is open, free of charge, six days a week. Visit http://www.parkwest-glenn. com for more information. Regarding the piece chosen for permanent display in the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, Glenn said because of repairs the museum was undergoing, it’s still in his possession. “I’m going to have to deliver it © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 33 November 28, 2011 WDIV Voters Name Park West Gallery “The Best” in Detroit The contest has ended. The votes have been tallied. Over 270 local businesses competed under the “Art Gallery” category in WDIV Channel 4 clickondetroit. com’s “2011 Vote 4 The Best” Contest. And the First Place Winner is… PARK WEST GALLERY!!! For the second year in a row, clickondetroit.com voters have named Park West Gallery as “The Best” Art Gallery in Detroit! To see all of this year’s “Vote 4 The Best” Contest Winners, please visit http://4thebest. clickondetroit.com/home/ winners. 34 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® November 27, 2011 Local Child rights activist Lauds Michigan Adoption Law By Kojo Sankofa - Special to the Michigan Citizen DETROIT — Ethiopian-born child rights advocate Saba Gebrai has lauded state legislature for the new law extending care to Michigan foster youth. The law, signed Nov. 22, encourages adoption, foster care, mentoring, tutoring and respite care. Saba Gebrai is the director for the Blue Babies Park West Foundation, an organization in Detroit committed to supporting and uplifting youth in the social welfare system eager to improve themselves, as well as those who are in foster care. Published • Sun, Nov 27, 2011 new law will encourage more qualified persons and families to adopt and support youth in foster care. Approximately 107,000 children throughout America await the chance to be taken home with adoptive parents. According to recent Children’s Bureau statistics, the prospects for finding loving families and stable surroundings are often poor, particularly for Black youth. Gebrai explained that there is a stigma attached to foster care, thus Blue Babies, which represents youth who are supported by the state, is set to restore the dignity and empower youth who become destitute through no fault of theirs. Gebrai says she gravitated to social work naturally, acknowledging her background that instilled in her what it takes to be of service to her community. “This is my calling, it has been my passion to work with young adults who are deprived and poor,” she said. “We don’t have a Park West Foundation youth, Kinita McDaniels, with Saba Gebrai wrap around the problem Blue Babies is made up of former and but we keep pushing on.” current foster care youth who believe in themselves and in service of their peers She says she has always believed it takes a and communities, daily transforming lives village to raise a child and further asserted that “we accept that some people are not through youth-led, creative solutions. as important and as an African I found Gebrai pointed out that November is out that Africans go through that kind of National Adoption month, therefore it is treatment and that motivates me to create significant that the adoption law has been an environment that will enable each child signed to extend care to Michigan youth in to know that they are important.” foster care. Blue Babies Park West Foundation is So far there have been over 2000 adoptions involved with Child Welfare, working to and it is expected that the signing of this create families for children and young adults who do not have families. The foundation also serves as a resource center for Child Welfare issues and does referrals in cases that requires special needs. Thousands of children all over Michigan and the world are growing up without a parent or family. This has inspired the Be1andBlue campaign that helps youth to formally connect to caring people, families, organizations, businesses and faith communities everywhere. Gebrai explained that extended community support is particularly important to Black youth, who are often adopted at lower rates than their white peers. A look at five states that include cities with large Black populations shows that seldom were more than half of adopted youth from Black communities. From 2009 to 2010, of Michigan’s 2,597 adopted, just 30.8 percent were Black; of Louisiana’s 641, 47.1 percent were Black; of Illinois’ 1,214, 51.9 percent were Black; of Georgia’s 1,196, 0.7 percent were Black. Only in the District of Columbia were Black adopted youth the overwhelming majority, but D.C.’s 94.6 percent came from a total of just 129 children. On Global Dignity Day, Oct. 20, Blue Babies of Park West Foundation Launched the Be1andBlue campaign to promote and support Life with Dignity for all Children in Michigan and around the world. For Saba Gebrai, who has committed and dedicated her entire life to working with youth in foster care, she is excited about the new law to extend care to Michigan youth in foster care. She views it as a breakthrough and an achievement that will go a long way in empowering many young adults who need the help of the entire society. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 35 November 23, 2011 Abstract painter pushes the envelope to create art no one’s ever seen before Published: Wednesday, November 23, 2011 Detroit artist Tim Yanke strives to create art no one has ever seen before. And he needs noise to do it. “Your brain thinks with words, but your soul thinks with music and art,” he said, noting that for him, working in a quiet room lacks creativity. “When you get that music going, it generates from your soul, from your head, to your hands, to the canvas or whatever it is you’re painting. And that is ideal. I can’t imagine painting in silence.” Yanke enjoys a wide variety of music. “Anything that gets me going. From reggae to Duke Ellington to Bob Marley,” he said. Yanke began drawing as a child. In elementary school, students were required to sit alphabetically, placing him in the back of the room. He took the isolating opportunity to practice drawing and continued through middle school and high school. He drew everything and received encouraging compliments from his peers. After completing high school, Yanke continued his studies at the University of North Texas in Denton and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. Four years ago Yanke was asked to be the full-time abstract artist for Park West. He agreed after conversing with his wife about the opportunity. “The pivotal point came during an art history course back in college,” Yankee said. “I didn’t know it then, but my career changed during a certain class. I look back at it now like that’s when I wanted to become an artist. It’s when I started to learn about the impressionists.” “My work cubical never looked the same again,” he said. “There are a lot of people who would like to be where I am. I’m very fortunate.” Yanke was drawn to the impressionist art era because it “departed from mainstream art,” he said. Yanke, an abstract painter, believes impressionism changed the world. When creating his paintings, Yanke uses “anything that makes a mark or leaves a color,” he said. “From sidewalk chalk to spray paint to tar. Acrylic to graphite to charcoal,” Yanke said. make “Anything to add dimension or cast a shadow.” He also uses staples, sand and a variety of textures, but never oils. Yanke said he doesn’t have the patience to wait for it to dry. “You’ve got a great imagination or you’re very creative,” Yankee recalls his father saying. Yanke has been painting in his 1,200-square-foot studio in Birmingham since 2007, but he started painting in the mid-1980s. Yanke’s father would also comments about his work. Yanke believed his father’s comments gave him confidence. When Yanke reached high school, he geared his classes toward becoming a graphic artist, but always knew he wanted to be a painter. 36 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® He began his art career by painting for Park West Gallery in Southfield. In the mid-’80s he sent 35mm art slides to the gallery. At the time, Yanke was working at Ameritech, now AT&T, as a graphic artist. Eight months passed before he received a call to sign an exclusive contract with the gallery. Yanke’s artwork is on display at Park West and is often sold to cruise ships and hotels around the world. His art sells for anywhere from $850 to $15,000. Yanke and his wife, Nicky, love the West and frequently travel to Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Lake Tahoe. He collects Native American items to add to his studio for inspiration. “The sky out there is different,” Yanke said. “I try to translate it into my paintings.” Yanke plans to continue creating art the world has never seen. “You wanna push your own envelope,” Yanke said. “My last painting is always my favorite because I keep pushing those boundaries.” If YOU GO As a Park West Gallery artist, Tim Yanke’s artwork is continuously on display, at 29469 Northwestern Hwy. in Southfield. Park West is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 11a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and closed Sunday. For more information call 248-354-2343 or visit http://www.parkwestgallery.com. October 10, 2011 HOMETOWNlife.com Gallery paintings impress, not just for show By S. Kowalsk SOUTHFIELD — Prior to a 1999 renovation at Park West Gallery on Northwestern Highway, window shopping was a popular pastime. On one side of the 63,000-square-foot building were seven tenants, including a popular pizzeria, which attracted potential art fans, according to gallery owner Albert Scaglione. With art sales increasing, Scaglione completed a $3 million renovation, turning the entire building into a gallery. “When I bought the building (in 1979), I had a dream of one day occupying the whole building,” Scaglione said. A marble floor, Greco-Roman exterior, and a park with a pond were among the renovations made to the building and property, Scaglione said. But with the gallery expansion came the elimination of sublessors who attracted potential customers. More than a decade since the renovation, Scaglione said it's still a challenge getting passersby to recognize the building as a gallery with paintings for sale, and not a museum, with paintings just for show. On every wall are paintings from world renowned artists, and next to each is a price tag. “You'd be surprised how many people drive by and think it's a museum,” Scaglione said. “It is, but it's not. It's a place where you come and buy something, or browse. “I had more traffic when it was a strip mall. Many think we are an art museum in the suburbs. That's not what we are. We're a gallery where you shop.” Paintings are valued at more than $100,000 to less than $1,000, according to Scaglione. It takes advanced technology and a devoted workforce to keep the inventory up to date, he said. “Behind these walls, I have 150 people working,” Scaglione said, pointing to the right, facing the front desk. “It's the only entity of its kind with hundreds of people whose mission is to serve the art community, bringing the work of living artists to a wider audience in a non-intimidating, educational and entertaining way with the thought that art is for everyone, not just for the super rich or the intellectual.” Joanne Leonetti, the receptionist and client services representative, feels like she has the best view in town. Her chair swivels, which allows for a view of the paintings on the back wall without getting on her feet. “I turn around (in the chair) and look at everything (on the walls),” Leonetti said. “I'm also that ‘crazy' person that makes sure everything is straight. I like to straighten out the paintings. Right now, I'm noticing (a) Picasso (painting) is crooked.” Scaglione, 72, is a New Jersey native who moved to Michigan after enrolling in graduate school in mechanical engineering at Michigan State University in 1964. Wayne State University, before taking a risk and opening the Park West Gallery out of a building he rented at Nine Mile and Telegraph in Southfield. Scaglione remembers the rent being $500 per month at the start, which was steep for the kind of budget he was used to having. “I was a good saver, and my wife and child lived on $15 a week for food,” Scaglione said. “You could buy three pounds of hamburger for a dollar, powdered milk. That was my food staples.” Park West Gallery's business grew to the point that an expansion was necessary, Scaglione said. In 1979, he constructed the building the gallery now occupies at 29469 Northwestern Highway for $1.7 million. “When you think about it, that was about the price of what a ‘big home' is today,” Scaglione said. Where it’s at What: Park West Gallery Where: 29469 Northwestern (between 12 and 13 Mile roads), Southfield, MI Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday-Friday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. Phone: (248) 354-2343 A teacher in New Jersey convinced him to consider MSU, he remembers. “He told me, ‘I think you'd like the midwest, the work ethic,'” Scaglione recalled. “I moved here, never left.” Scaglione said he taught mechanical engineering courses at MSU, and then © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 37 July 2011 Art World News J U N E – J U L Y 2 0 11 PARK WEST NAMED BEST MICHIGAN GALLERY BY ‘OFFICIAL BEST OF’ TRAVEL PROGRAM EXPOSITION CHICAGO ART FAIRS ARE COMING TO NAVY PIER has CONVERGING ON MI—Park SOUTHFIELD, West Gallery LOS ANGELES been named “The Offi cial Best Art Gallery Exposition Chicago in Michigan—2011” by the Official Best Art of Merchandise Mart PropExpositions LLC erties Inc. travel TV program that features the best family attractions, restaurants, spas, hotels, Art Platform – Los Angeles and more, from across the U.S.. Park West Gallery CEO and founder Albert Scaglione says, “It is an honor to be recognized in the company of such prestigious past winners— local favorites like the Detroit Zoo, as well as national cultural institutions including the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, PULSE the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. We are proud to accept this distinguished title.” The Official Best of travel program airs on The Discovery Channel and other major networks including ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox. Park West Gallery Affordable Art Fair will be spotlighted during a 30- minute AAF YORK SEES television special, Offi cialNEW Best of Michigan , $2.2 MIL. IN SALES scheduled to air in early July. Affordable Art Fair Founded in 1969 New byYorkMr. Scaglione, Park West Gallery offers work by such Masters as Picasso and Chagall, as well as contemporary artists Yaccov Agam, Romero Britto, Peter Max and others through its galleries in Michigan and Florida, as well as art auctions on cruise ships and in major cities. For more, visit: www.parkwestgallery.com. 38 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® rt Galle st A ry e B OFFICIAL BESTOF M THE ic h 1 igan 201 April 2011 Art World News A P R I L 2 0 11 GALLERIES BENEFIT FROM ART AUCTIONS Koleen Kaffan is Managing Editor of Art World News. CHICAGO DEALER ARTEXPO NEW YORK Art auctions—either held in the gallery, at a collectors appreciate having a new way to grow Creating an “experience” different to what people ACCUSED OF FRAUD AN ENCOURAGING SHOW different location, or online—have proven to be a their collections. “By keeping the guest list limited would get at the gallery alone, is important to the lucrative way for galleries to bring in new Artexpo buyers, New to yourYork current collectors or top prospects, you’re atmosphere, says Stoney Goldstein, executive whilst also providing an extra service to existing practically guaranteed success,” she says. “These vice president of sales at Park West Gallery. The collectors. At the same time, they reduce inventory are the people that have bought art from you in company, headquartered in Southfield, MI, holds taking up valuable space. Auctions feature large the past and, in the case of your top prospects, auctions in its gallery and at sea. “Auctions are amounts of artwork that, for one reason or another, could likely buy in the future. To that end, you effective because clients enjoy the experience— is no longer viable on the showroom floor. These are providing them an exclusive opportunity to from the preview to the bidding to seeing the events can breathe new life into a gallery by acquire art at what could be an exceptional value. presentations— and that certain indescribable providing much needed cash flow while adding Before the auction even begins, the collectors and energy that only an auction can provide. In a a new dimension to the business itself. “Auctions prospects have been enticed and highly motivated gallery, artworks may hang on a wall for months offer galleries a chance to move slower selling by the pre-set opening bid prices they see in the waiting for a collector. An auction is not only a fun artwork, and the cash generated allows them booklets handed to them as they arrive, and the and exciting event, it also helps clients evaluate to purchase better selling product, reinvest the atmosphere becomes highly charged. Aside from what works they are interested in collecting money somewhere else in the business, or even the potential to save money on art, here you have and a price point at which they are comfortable just survive in some instances,” says Sage Stark, a gallery brimming with passionate collectors, spending more quickly; especially when there are gallery director of American Visions Art Gallery in and competition is sparking. And then the bidding 300 other people there who may be interested in Folsom, CA. begins! At times, the competition can become the same artworks.” extremely lively and quite entertaining for all in Eric Dannemann, president of Martin Lawrence the room. Keep in mind that the number of guests Making an auction special helps create ambiance. WILD IS A throughout GREAT the KEN TObeEXPAND should fairly modest, say fifty or so. This works “We absolutely take pleasure in offering clients Galleries, withAPPLE 10 locations U.S.,ORTON PLACE TO WORK! GALLERY NETWORK much, much better than hosting an event with a an elegant setting for our live auctions,” Mr. feels that while auctions have several benefits, large number of general audience visitors about Dannemann says. “They are typically held at success depends on various factors. “The Wild Apple Ken Orton whom you know very little.” dynamics for a successful auction contain many very high-end hotel ballrooms or interesting city elements that must work symbiotically, such as venues around the U.S. and in the general vicinity offering great artwork at a great value, contagious Richard Hart, owner and principal auctioneer at of a local Martin Lawrence Gallery. The idea is energy from art consultants, a professional Baterbys Art Auction and Gallery, a full-service for clients to enjoy a night out on the town while auctioneer, and, most importantly, a sense of gallery and auction house in Orlando, FL, notes also having the opportunity to add to their art urgency. Consultants must impart to clients that that his business is in a highly tourist-trafficked collection.” if they wish to own a work of art in that season’s area, so he uses auctions as a way to connect auctions, it is imperative that they seize the with many of his local collectors, keeping them Gallery staff play a big role in generating opportunity now.” engaged and educated. “Twenty-five percent of excitement centered around the event. “Auctions our sales come from auctions,” Mr. Hart says. give the staff heightened energy,” says Giovanna Martin Lawrence Galleries holds several auctions “Most of our auction clients are collectors Stark, owner of American Visions Art Gallery. “It a year around the country. The Spring 2011 from our retail gallery. Those that buy from our feels like lots of action is going on, even though schedule alone includes five auctions in cities auctions are always looking to learn more about there may only be a few bidders. Everyone gets such as New York, San Francisco, and New art. Auctions have to be a part of the gallery, and excited—from the artists themselves who feel it Orleans. Summer of this year marks the opening they have to be educational and informative.” draws added attention to their pieces to the retail of the company’s eleventh gallery in Las Vegas. Baterbys is housed in a 10,000-square-foot space community around us who express that they Ideally, auctions offer galleries an outlet to clear that features unique walls, designed to swivel out get some of the pulses of energy coming from out some inventory, making room for new, fresh of the way to make room to accommodate 150 the attraction of the auction.” Alexander Salazar, IDENTIFYING When an auction owner of Alexander Salazar Fine Art and Auctions works of art. Cristi Smith, owner of Ford Smith seats for attendees of auctions. put back to display in San Diego, saw the benefits of holding art Fine Art, Roswell, GA, has spoken with a number is over, the showroom can beFRAMING of the galleries carrying the work of Ford Smith the artwork. auctions early on in his business model as a way OPPORTUNITIES regarding auctions, and has learned that many of appealing to all types of collectors. He opened © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 39 April 2011 Art World News A P R I L 2 0 11 the gallery space in 2010, followed a few months when he gives you advice about how to prepare for later by an auction house nearby. “I have found the auction (booklets, paddles, how to efficiently that some collectors never buy at galleries, but handle the many financial transactions, etc.). CHICAGO DEALER ARTEXPO NEW YORK prefer to acquire at auction because of the feeling While an auction creates a lively and bustling ACCUSED OF FRAUD AN ENCOURAGING SHOW that they are getting a better price.” Mr. Salazar’s atmosphere, it should be meticulously organized auction house oftentimes holds events tiedArtexpo in with New and executed.” York local charities. WILD APPLE IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK! KEN ORTON TO EXPAND GALLERY NETWORK Wild Apple Ken Orton Celebrating it’s 42nd year in business, Park West Gallery holds monthly auctions featuring hundreds of pieces of art. Rules for auctions do need to be set in order for people to know that the artwork is a once in a lifetime opportunity. “First, do not skimp on the auctioneer, the food, or the drinks for your esteemed guests,” Mrs. Smith stresses. “It’s a unique and exclusive event and should be treated as such. Hire a professional auctioneer and enough help to ensure that the art is moved quickly and seamlessly. Second, make auctions a rarity for your gallery. This sort of event should be extraordinary and exceptional. The last thing you want to do is to train your clients to wait for an auction to make a purchase. My advice is to consider hosting one no more than every other year, or possibly just the one time.” She also notes that, since you’ve hired the auctioneer, use this opportunity to pick his/her brain on how to be successful in an auction. Listen to the auctioneer 40 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Many galleries also find that sticking to stricter rules, such as no layaway or inhouse financing on auction pieces, lets collectors know that there is a difference between this sale and ones done in the retail gallery. The build up to the event is important. Mr. Goldstein suggests “hosting a well staffed auction preview in which clients can view the artwork, ask any questions, etc. Most people who bid at auctions have likely previewed the artwork and determined that they are going to bid before the item makes it on the auction block.” recently held one using eBay. It worked out really well, because I didn’t have to keep track of the bidding. It does cost a little to use eBay, but the amount of time and effort that I did not have to put into running the auction made it worth it.” When choosing artwork for the auction, galleries often have different criteria, but diversity is important. “Auctions need a careful balance of artists, styles, and mediums,” says Giovanna Stark. “Some pieces in the mix need to be highly desirable—yet you don’t want to put a valuable piece of art into the mix if that artist is going to be coming to the gallery in the next few months. We have to be careful to not devalue the work of any of the artists that we have. So the selection is balanced, we will have a few pieces that we would be glad to move out, and a few pieces we can sell knowing we may not make a profit.” Auctions at Park West Gallery feature different numbers of work, depending on the type of event. “There is a large range,” says Mr. Goldstein. “I’ve seen auctions with six works of art, and auctions where 1,000 pieces were made available. There needs to be a balance of enough selection versus overloading clients with too many choices. My recommendation is around 250 works at a preview, followed by an auction limited mainly to works that are requested in the preview.” Hiring a professional, accredited auctioneer elevates the event, and often-times, helps entertain customers. Some states require the auctioneer to be licensed after attending a state-recognized auction school. “I have found that an educated and passionate and fun auctioneer can make bidders raise their paddles,” Mr. Salazar adds. “Galleries need an experienced auctioneer who is not just a ‘bid caller’ but someone who can present the artwork effectively, is well-spoken, has taken the time to educate themselves extensively about the artworks, will conduct the auction with utmost integrity, and will keep the audience engaged and interested in the artworks being presented,” says Mr. Goldstein. At CFM Gallery, located in Chelsea, New York City, auctions are held online only. “We don’t IDENTIFYING hold the auction in the gallery. All of the bidding is done online,” says owner Neil Zukerman. “We FRAMING usually run the auction through our website, but OPPORTUNITIES April 2011 Art World News A P R I L 2 0 11 Gallery One in Mentor, Ohio, has been in business Mr. Zukerman uses auctions strictly as a way can often be corrected by setting a disclosed, for 37 years. Since then, they’ve held hundreds to rid his gallery of miscellaneous pieces, or undisclosed, reserve price. Depending on of auctions, but it was their first foray into this something he is honest about to his customers. how the auctions are structured, a bidding client CHICAGO DEALER ARTEXPO NEW YORK different way to sell art that really shaped gallery “Those buying from our auctions are generally may be able to withdraw their offer and create ACCUSED OF FRAUD AN ENCOURAGING SHOW owners Norah Lynne and Alan Brown’s mind set. existing clients—in fact about 85% are regulars. a bit of a dilemma. Having tight requirements “We held our first auction in 1977 when we were New WhenYork presenting the work to clients, I let them on participating in the auctions may solve this Artexpo approached by a woman that ran a local charity,” know that this is miscellaneous work and here is problem, but allowing customers to easily bid Mrs. Brown says. “We knew absolutely nothing an opportunity to get some bargains. For us, no without collecting too much information makes about it and were intimidated at first, but she education is needed. One big rule is to always be everybody feel welcome to participate.” was persistent. We hired a major auctioneer to honest. Auctions help me to reduce my inventory run the event. Right away, he began taking bids of those items no longer germain to what the As an added service to loyal collectors, some off the wall—essentially, he was faking bids. Our gallery is doing.” galleries hold auctions to help sell someone’s ethics were reeling. These were our collectors that personal collection or estate, with the gallery he was lying to and we were livid. At the end of For Mrs. Brown, choosing artwork for auction is getting a percentage of the sale. A bonus effect the auction, he got to leave, but we had to still ever-changing. “Maybe it’s an original done years of holding auctions is that it reinvigorates a face our customers and if they lost trust in us, any ago by one of our gallery artists, and the style is collector’s interest in other pieces in your gallery. future business would have been lost.” slightly different. That would be a perfect piece for “We found that our clients pay attention to all the an auction. It gets the artist’s existing collectors artists in the auction, even though they browse The auction, in fact, turned out to be highly excited and allows them to obtain a rare piece of through the gallery often and might just pass them successful for the gallery and the non-profit work. An auction also allows an item to be priced by,” says Giovanna Stark. “One client came in to involved, the Browns knew there was something the way it should be because the public is setting look at some of the other sculptures we had by to them, even after the bad experience with the the price. It’s a valid representation of what the Todd Warner. We’ve had his work in the gallery auctioneer. “We knew that we wanted to do more of price should be.” Charities can play a big role since the day we opened eight years ago, and yet WILDand APPLE IS AtoGREAT KEN ORTON EXPAND these events sent Alan auctioneer school.” in a TO successful auction as well. First, it allows our client hadn’t paid that much attention to the PLACE TO WORK! GALLERY NETWORK Mr. Brown received a CAI (Certified Auctioneers the gallery to do fund-raising work, whilst also collection.” Institute) and AARE (Accredited Auctioneer bringing new people into the gallery. Park West Apple Ken Orton of RealWild Estate) designation from University of recently did an auction for the Florida Caribbean Another perk is getting your customer’s undivided Indiana. Outside of the gallery, he also donates his Cruise Association Foundation, and raised nearly attention. “Auctions allow the gallery to get a large time as an auctioneer as a community service. The $30,000 for their children’s outreach programs number of people together at one time, and have Browns also specifically buy work for auctions. to the Caribbean and Latin America. At American them captivated for an hour or more,” Mr. Hart “When we are looking for art to buy for the gallery, Visions Art Gallery, Giovanna Stark touts the adds. “If the event is done by professionals, and in we may come across something that we know advantages of getting the artists involved to create an educational manner, the audience will become will work really well in an auction and we will a buzz. “When we do a show with Michael Godard, enlightened and in a position of knowledge to buy it specifically for that purpose,” Mrs. Brown he’ll start the evening with a sketch that he then make that decision to bid, and ultimately own art says. “Sometimes we’ll make an exceptional buy auctions for his favorite charity. Sometimes the themselves, without being sold too.” of something, and put it aside for the auction.” piece will sell at a high price, other times it will be Gallery One also includes their website in the lower, depending on the mood, the audience, and auctions. “The last few auctions that we have had the times. All the funds for this piece are given to were very poorly attended, but despite that, we the charity, but it gives the evening a great feel and ended up having the biggest volume of sales ever. people get into the spirit of things. For Godard, it’s We run so much of the auction on our website and a highly personal touch that connects him right in the gallery simultaneously that we have been away to the very large group of people who have able to include, not only locals, but also collectors come to the show.” that are not in our area.” She notes that many of IDENTIFYING the online bidders are locals that just felt like Sage Stark warns of auctions that may not live staying at home. “These online bidders already up to expectations. “There are some downsides FRAMING know us as a gallery with quality work, so they to auctions, such as receiving offers that may OPPORTUNITIES feel confident.” not fit the galleries’ desired profit margins. This © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 41 April 2011 PARK WEST GALLERY “ART WITH A HEART” Park West Gallery houses more than one thousand pieces of beautiful artwork in its 63,000 square foot opulent Greco Roman designed building. But Park West, rated the number one art gallery in Metropolitan Detroit in a survey conducted by WDIV-TV Channel 4, offers much more than just the finest pieces of artwork anywhere in the world. Owners Albert and Mitsie Scaglione have made it their mission in life to give back to the community which has afforded them the opportunity to be successful in business. Park West Cares, which the couple established last July, has donated $1.5 million worth of clothing and works of art to literally thousands of charities and educational organizations worldwide. The Park West Foundation, which the Scaglione’s founded in 2006, has provided assistance to hundreds of young men and women who, because of state law, have been forced to opt out of Michigan’s Foster Care system at the age of eighteen. The Park West Foundation has taken these individuals under its protective wing and helped them find clothing, housing, jobs and even made it possible for some of them to continue their education at a college or university. Albert and Mitsie also invite any 501(c) 3 charities to host fundraisers and parties at the gallery, free of charge. The Scaglione’s practice the old scripture: “To Whom Much Is Given, Much Is Expected.” At Park West Gallery, an apt motto might be “Art with A Heart.” Park West Gallery is located at 29469 Northwestern Highway in Southfield. For more information about Park West Gallery go to www.parkwestgallery.com 42 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® October 7, 2010 Park West Gallery voted top art gallery in the Detroit area By Vito Curcuru Park West Gallery has been voted the #1 art gallery in the metro Detroit area in WDIV’s “4 the Best” contest. Nearly 240,000 web site visitors cast votes for their favorites in a number of categories from Best Burger to Best Local Bands. More than 70 art galleries from Detroit and the surrounding area were nominated. “We’re honored to once again be voted the top art gallery in metro Detroit,” said Albert Scaglione, CEO of Park West Gallery. “For over 40 years we’ve been bringing art and artists to the area, and we look forward to many more years of supporting the arts in Detroit.” Voters could leave comments, and those who voted for Park West Gallery had the following to say: “Park West Galleries ROCKS supreme! Finally a gallery that has art that I actually want to look at! I discovered them on a cruise ship at sea, and it wasn’t until a few months ago I realized they are in our own back yard.” “Amazing collection of art in so many genres. From the Old Classics to some very modern, fun stuff. Original pieces of art are available, sculptures and jewelry are a big part of the collection. It is amazing how much knowledge the staff have under their belts and how eager they are to share what they know with you! By far the best place to begin your search for art.” “They have always treated us like family.” “Park West is amazing and the people that work for Park West are very professional. The best of the best!” “I’ve done business with them several times over the years. They make collecting original art easy and fun. Their staff has always impressed me with their knowledge and love of art.” “Over the past 21 years, I have purchased over 100 works of art from Park West. The customer service, knowledge of all involved, and the provenance of all works was impeccable. Thank you !!!!” Founded in 1969, Park West Gallery offers works of art through its galleries in Michigan and Florida, at art auction events across the country, and on cruise art auctions at sea internationally. The Park West Gallery collection includes oil and acrylic paintings, watercolors and drawings, hand-signed limited edition etchings, lithographs, serigraphs and hand-embellished graphic works. Park West Gallery also offers an extensive selection of sports memorabilia and a unique collection of rare animation art. Park West Gallery occupies a 63,000 square foot headquarters and gallery in Southfield, Michigan and an 181,000 square foot fulfillment center and gallery in Miami Lakes, Florida. When your company wins an award, send your marketing department into overdrive like this gallery. Get the word out that you are the best there is and customers will start to line-up. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 43 September 26, 2010 Local people have given back to county By L. Brooks Patterson Even in the darkness of economic distress, there are those among us who step forward to brighten our world by enhancing the quality of life for their fellow citizens. That certainly applies to the four outstanding individuals who will be honored at my 18th Annual Quality People, Quality County Awards Breakfast in the Centerpointe Marriott on Tuesday, Sept. 28. Albert Scaglione, president and owner of Park West Gallery in Southfield, learned the value of a dollar at the age of 8 working Saturdays on his father’s scrap metal truck in Nutley, N.J. When he turned 16, Scaglione jumped down off his dad’s truck and into a job at a cousin’s art gallery where he learned the techniques of stretching and varnishing canvasses and framing works of art. After receiving his doctorate in mechanical engineering, Scaglione landed a job with NASA. When the government canceled the project on which he had been working, he re-entered the art world. His Park West Gallery on Northwestern Highway has served more than 1.3 million customers over the past 41 years. The gallery has prospered and so have the individuals and organizations Scaglione and his family have taken under their wing. The Park West Foundation, which he founded, has been a source of support for young women forced to leave the foster care system at the age of 18. Park West Gallery also donates art to charitable groups, opens the gallery to 501(c)(3) charities for fundraisers and has made available about $1.5 million worth of clothing to those in need. Scaglione has what might be called an “Art with a Heart” perspective on life, which has given him the joy and satisfaction of being able to give back to his community by helping to improve the quality of life for others. 44 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Ron Kagan, executive director and CEO of the Detroit Zoological Society, has had two passions in life: Cars and animals. Fortunately for the 1.2 million visitors who walk through the gates of the zoo annually, Ron chose the latter as his life’s work. In his 17 years as director, Kagan has transformed the zoo into Michigan’s number one tourist attraction with a variety of innovative and exciting exhibits. Among these are the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery, The Arctic Ring of Life, the National Conservation Center and the 126 seat 3-D/4-D Theater at the Ford Education Center. Kagan has shaped the Detroit Zoo into a one-of-a-kind experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. A healthy dose of good news is the new Oakland University/William Beaumont School of Medicine. Spearheading this joint venture is Albert Scaglione & Brooks Patterson at Q2 Awards Breakfast Dr. Gary Russi, president of Oakland In addition, the OU/Beaumont School of Medicine University and Ken Matzick, the recently retired CEO of Beaumont Hospitals. will pack an economic wallop. These two highly skilled administrators have It will spawn an estimated $1 billion in new successfully shepherded this ambitious, multiinvestment and create 11,000 new jobs. million dollar project through a labyrinth of challenges and hurdles. As a result of their Scaglione, Kagan, Russi and Matzick are living leadership, the OU/Beaumont School of Medicine symbols of what the great Greek orator and is poised to welcome its first class of 50 aspiring philosopher, Pericles, meant when he wrote the doctors in August, 2011. following words thousands of years ago: “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone The need for doctors has never been more acute. monuments, but what is woven into the lives of It’s estimated that 4,400 Michigan doctors and others.” 100,000 nationwide will hang up their white coats in the next few years. September 8-14, 2010 Park West Gallery donates clothing, art to Grace Centers of Hope ® Michigan Chronicle/DETROIT (Sept. 8-14, 2010) - Grace Centers is one of six Metro Detroit nonprofit organizations benefiting from Park West Gallery‘s generosity this summer. Locally, the other organizations are Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Covenant House, Detroit Rescue Mission, HAVEN of Oakland County and Vista Maria. Organizations in southeast Florida where Park West has additional locations also received merchandise. Park West owners Albert and Mitsie Scaglione have a long standing relationship with Grace Centers of Hope. In 2008, they donated more than $25,000 to the nonprofit towards its Men’s Dorm Renovation Project. This generous gift spearheaded Grace Center’s fund-raising campaign for the project. The renovation of the men’s dorm, which now houses emergency clients separately from residential ones in a dignified and uplifting setting, was completed with additional funding from other sources. The nonprofit not only provides temporary shelter, food and clothing, but also conducts one-year and two-year programs to help men, women and children overcome the reasons they are homeless, such as addiction and abuse, and move forward positively with their lives. One hundred percent of this new clothing will go to the Grace Centers of Hope Thrift Stores. Monies raised by selling the merchandise in the stores will benefit the organization’s programs and services. REPRESENTITIVES OF Grace Centers of Hope, Mike Maslyn, Darin Weiss and Pastor Kent Clark, with Mitsie and Albert Scaglione of Park West Gallery; Mitsie and Albert receiving plaque from Grace Center of Hope’s CEO, Pastor Kent Clark. – Photos courtesy of Grace Centers of Hope and Park West Gallery. The same day as the clothing donation, Park West also gave Grace Centers of Hope 11 pieces of art by Thomas Kinkade, a Christian painter, through the foundation. Most of the paintings will go to the homes in Little Grace Village, Grace Centers of Hope’s safe and affordable housing revitalization effort on Seneca Street in Pontiac. Graduates of Grace Centers of Hope’s one year life skills program rent the homes. The other paintings will hang at Grace Gospel Fellowship. art pieces. One showed an idyllic scene, another a simple cross on top of a hill and the third was Kinkade’s interpretation of the face of Jesus. Three of the paintings were displayed in the gallery, ready for packing and loading onto the Grace Centers of Hope truck along with the clothing and the other eight Acts of generosity such as these are the types of stories that, sadly, all too often fail to make the news – television, print or radio. Park West Gallery and Grace Centers of Hope will continue working together to help those in need in the community. To donate merchandise and clothing, volunteer or learn more information about Grace Centers of Hope, call (248) 334-2187, or visit www.gracecentersofhope.org. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 45 August 16, 2010 Gallery gives paintings to local shelter By KAY NGUYEN Special to The Oakland Press Through its Park West CARES philanthropy initiative, Park West Gallery donated more than 600 items of clothing and 11 Thomas Kincade paintings to Pontiac-based Grace Centers of Hope. Grace Centers of Hope has been providing its services to Southeast Michigan as a homeless shelter since 1942. “We are very grateful for the wonderful generosity of Park West Gallery,” the Rev. Kent Clark, CEO of Grace Centers of Hope, said in a statement. “This donation is not the first time they have supported our organization. For the past several years, Park West Gallery has been a valued partner in our efforts to address homelessness in Michigan.” The relationship between the two organizations began in 2008 when Park West founder and CEO Albert Scaglione and his wife, Mitsie, made a $25,000 donation to Grace Centers. “We are deeply appreciative to Mr. and Mrs. Scaglione’s contributions in supporting our organization and positively impacting the lives of those who come through the doors here at Grace Centers of Hope,” said Michelle Atwell, director of development for Grace Centers of Hope. The Grace donation Friday was one stop during Park West’s Southeast Michigan donation blitz throughout August. 46 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Albert Scaglione presents Thomas Kinkade artwork to the Rev. Kent Clark of Grace Centers of Hope. Other organizations benefiting from this include the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit, Covenant House, a privately funded child-care agency, Detroit Rescue Mission, HAVEN of Oakland County and Vista Maria, an organization that helps women and children who have been abused. Park West Galleries is headquartered in Southfield. Clothing donated by Park West was all new merchandise that was previously being sold on cruise ships, where its galleries operate. “We were just determined to donate it,” Robin Danek, director of marketing and communication for Park West Gallery, said. “We probably will do second donations to most of these places.” Atwell said all of the clothing items donated will be used for resale in thrift stores operated by Grace Centers. Atwell said revenue from the thrift stores accounts for 50 percent of the organization’s operating budget. The paintings will be placed at homes in Little Grace Village, along Seneca Street in Pontiac. The homes are inhabited by graduates of the center’s one-year life skills program. “These folks are now working, they’re sober, they’re paying rent and are part of the community which ensures their transition into sobriety and ensures their part as a lasting member of society,” Atwell said. Kincade’s Christian-themed paintings were chosen specifically for donation by Park West because of the message residents of Little Grace Village resonate, Danek said. Grace Centers of Hope is funded through donations and receives help from more than 10,000 volunteers a year, Atwell said. Visit www. gracecentersofhope.com for more information. August 11, 2010 Do Good Detroit blog Park West Gallery is kicking off its Park West CARES initiative by donating more than 3,500 items of new clothing and merchandise to six metro Detroit nonprofit organizations. The benefitting organizations include Grace Centers of Hope, Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Covenant House, Detroit Rescue Mission, HAVEN of Oakland County and Vista Maria. Grace Centers of Hope, one of southeast Michigan's oldest and largest homeless shelters, will receive more than 600 items of merchandise at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 13, 2010 at Park West Gallery® located on 29469 Northwestern Highway in Southfield. The donation will be used to support the men, women and children participating in the organization's homeless and rehabilitation programs. "We are very grateful for the wonderful generosity of Park West Gallery," said Pastor Kent Clark, CEO of Grace Centers of Hope. "This donation is not the first time they have supported our organization. For the past several years, Park West Gallery has been a valued partner in our efforts to address homelessness in Michigan." "We recognize the important role that Grace Centers of Hope plays in our local community," said Albert Scaglione, CEO of Park West Gallery. "We hope this clothing will make a difference in the lives of those who rely on them for assistance in becoming self-sufficient." On August 13, Park West Gallery also will donate 11 pieces of art for the homes located in Little Grace Village, Grace Centers of Hope's safe and affordable housing revitalization effort on Seneca St. in Pontiac. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 47 June 18, 2009 SU N Southfield City honors 40 years of Park West Gallery June 15 named Park West Gallery Day in Southfield, MI JENNIE MILLER C & G Staff Writer Published: June 18, 2009 SOUTHFIELD - Driving southbound on Northwestern Highway into the city of Southfield years ago, City Councilman Myron Frasier was overwhelmed as he came upon the sight of Park West Gallery. "Now that's what a building ought to look like," Frasier said June 15, recalling the memory of first spotting the 63,000-squarefoot gallery, a Greco-Roman structure with towering columns designed in 1979. "It was just really great (to see), and it still is," said Frasier as the city celebrated Park West Gallery Day June 15 in recognition of the company's 40 years of operation in Southfield, dating back even further than its awe-inspiring facility to 1969 with its first location on Nine Mile Road. Founded by Albert Scaglione, Park West is now one of the largest art dealers in the world, selling works of art through its galleries in Michigan and Florida, as well as on cruise ships internationally. "We are proud to be the home town of this internationally respected business celebrating its 40th year," said Southfield Mayor Brenda Lawrence, who thanked Scaglione and his wife, Mitsie, for their "loyalty and outstanding contributions to this city." The Scagliones have also been active in the region through the establishment of the Park West Foundation, which provides support to young people who have been aged out of the foster care system. Proud of the honor bestowed upon him and his company, Scaglione thanked the city for its support. "It's very gratifying," he said. "It's been a long journey for me here in Southfield. I've been in the city for a long time, and it's great 48 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Southfield Mayor, Brenda Lawrence, Mitsie & Albert Scaglione, Myron Frasier to be recognized in this way." He said it's been a pleasure to work with the city and the community over the last four decades. "The city has been terrific," Scaglione said. "It's a great place for us to build our homes (and) build our businesses. I think one of the best things about this (region) is the work ethic. (And) we have a great mixed population. We have all different kinds of ethnic groups. (It is) a melting pot of a very high-quality talent pool." As he enters his own 70th year of life, Scaglione isn't sure what the future holds for his company, which he admits is seeing diminished sales in this struggling economy, but he hopes Park West will go on. "We'll probably do this until we aren't around to do it anymore," Scaglione said, adding that he and Mitsie have five children who work in the family business. "We can work together - it's a privilege; it's a pleasure; it's an honor. I know we're in a tough time, but we just hope we can keep going the way we have been. We're seeing mild improvements, and I hope that continues. I'm hopeful that the recovery has quietly begun, and we are starting to see that." Scaglione planned to host a celebration for gallery staff this week complete with pizza and wings to commemorate the occasion. "I'm very close to the staff here; some of them have been here 25-30 years," he said. As cause for further celebration, Albert and Mitsie Scaglione plan to renew their marriage vows on his birthday, July 4. For more information about Park West Gallery, visit www.parkwestgallery.com, call (248) 354-2343, Toll Free (800) 521-9654 or stop by 29469 Northwestern Highway in Southfield. Copyright, 2009, Southfield Sun (MI), All Rights Reserved. Spring 2009 Park West Gallery Celebrates 40 Years (back row) Harrison Ellenshaw, Hua Chen, Peter Nixon, Alexander Chen, Yuval Wolfson, Jean-Claude Picot, Lisa Grubb, Nano Lopez, Fanch Ledan, Alice Riordan, James Coleman, Charles Lee, Yolanda Glenn, Marcus Glenn, Dick Duerrstein, Andrew Bone, Tom Murry, Howard Behrens (middle row) Kevin Miles, Wendy Schaefer, Anatole Krasnyansky, Holland Berkley, Albert Scaglione, Itzchak Tarkay, Morris Shapiro, Csaba Markus, Noah, Toby Bluth (front row) Simon Bull, Jay Lefkowitz, Mark Kanovich, Victor Spahn, David Najar, Alfred Gockel, Marko Mavrovich and Dominic Pangborn RUBY --- THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY GEMSTONE --- POSSESSES AN ETERNAL INNER FLAME A SYMBOL THAT THE PASSION IS STILL VERY ALIVE AND STRONG AFTER FOUR DECADES. A lbert Scaglione infused his enthusiasm as a collector, connoisseur, art lover, and accomplished businessman at the 40th year anniversary of Park West Gallery in an exciting three-day event this past summer in its hometown of Southfield, Michigan. A mixture of seasoned dealers, well known, accomplished artists, and collectors hailing from all over the globe attended the festivities, boosting the high-energy level of Park West Gallery’s festive event. A fever of excitement hung in the air as the opportunity to meet, greet, and mingle with all forty artists, film makers, book writers, publishers, and art specialists was present to those in attendance. The 63,000 sq. ft space was filled with a retrospective presentation in a league with international showcase expositions and was viewed by a vibrant group of movers and shakers. Good food, entertainment, discussion and art presentations were laced throughout the well-planned event. On display was a full spectrum of each artist - past and present - in a vetted palette of imagery displayed. Walls containing a retrospective of works and the By JAMIE ELLIN FORBES current images of the artists in attendance were displayed in a salon-like environment. This offered the art enthusiast space to comprehensively view each artist’s body of work while this impressive collective of artists exchanged creative vision freely, making for quite the rarefied atmosphere. Among those on hand for the revelries were Agam, Peter Max, Itzchak Tarkay, Thomas Kinkade, Csaba Markus, Linda Le Kinff, Alfred Gockel, Marcel Mouly, Scott Jacobs, Howard Behrens, Fanch Ledan and many, many, others. The celebration was driven by a blend of Albert Scaglione’s enthusiasm and dynamic energies offered by these international artists during the gracious three-day festivities. In his opening remarks, the Park West Gallery CEO commented, “Peter Max’s work is recognized the world over and Yaacov Agam arguably has created more monumental works than any other artist in history. Agam,” added Mr. Scaglione, “came here directly from installing a 75’ x 33’ sculpture in front of the new Olympic Stadium in Taiwan. Simon Bull has been working for the past year-and-a-half on more than 100 original paintings of Muhammad Ali, four of which were selected by the Champ and are now hanging in his new Yaacov Agam and CEO Albert Scaglione at Park West Gallery's 40th Anniversary © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 49 Spring 2009 / cont. Itzchak Tarkay, Hua Chen, and Anatole Krasnyansky AN INTERVIEW WITH TARKAY One of the most daunting experiences of my three plus decades writing about the creative spirit of artists took place in 1997 when I was assigned to interview Itzchak Tarkay for a monograph, Profile of An Artist. At the time, Tarkay was one of the hottest sellers in the art business and his originals and limited edition serigraphs were flying off gallery walls. As he was in Israel and I was in Ronkonkoma (NY), the interview took place via fax, at the artist’s suggestion. I was to send him a series of questions and in short order he would reply. Oh, how I wracked my brain to come up with some queries of quality and depth. Weeks later, I practically ripped the roll out of the fax machine as his replies came in. Much to my chagrin, they were mostly monosyllabic response, as in “Yes,” “NO” and a “Been there, done that, have the T-shirt.” But then I saw the genius in this man - his capacity to break everything down into basics. As I was typesetting the pages, I realized that the interview was much like his paintings: a dash of red here, a hat, a figure, the same woman. The repetition was like a mantra and the beauty and brilliance of this man was summed up in his concluding statement, which I repeat verbatim: “LIFE IS GOOD.” - VICTOR FORBES home in Louisville, Kentucky. I am truly energized by all of these creative, artistic talents converging in one place at one time.” Scaglione’s discerning eye for artistic line, enhanced through his engineering degrees, love of art and an informed art history background, is instilled into the overall Park West approach toward art collecting. The Gallery has a rich history of exhibitions. Picasso, Durer, Chagall, Dali, Goya, Miro, Rembrandt and Lautrec have all been exhibited. Park West Gallery’s owner and his staff consider the individual artists’ contemporary works in this collective for artistic style and statement of lasting value. Scaglione’s years traveling the world is evident in his knowledge and experience as a dedicated 50 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Itchak Tarkay, Lakeside Cafe (Summertime Suite), circa 1995, 20'' x 20'', Serigraph. collector, dealer and gallerist and are applied as a guideline in his company’s understanding of a traditional fine art line. The collection thus represents an over-all standard for classic composition and cohesion in image and style. The Park West Gallery approach to collecting, archiving, and seeing the provenance of these works, developed over 40 years of participation in the art business, was outlined by Scaglione at the event. Each artist represented in the collection has a lengthy bibliography of accomplishments. Herein lies Scaglione’s success. It is a polished cognizance for recognizing talent of the individual artists and offering their imagery to the seasoned collector or novice buyer at the national and international level. Scaglione’s past success in collecting master works and understanding the role of art in contemporary culture informs his decision-making process when signing new artists. It is based on a polished cognizance for line - a detailed, thorough and in-depth approach based on his company’s commitment to quality, his personal belief in maintaining artistic integrity and discernment in selecting contemporary art. The 63,000 sq. ft. exhibition space was filled with art and people, making this a unique crossover display between museum and showcase venues such as Art Miami and this summer’s recent art fair in East Hampton NY, as a review of current master market trends. Walls containing a retrospective of works and the current images of the contemporary group of artists in attendance offered the viewer space to enjoy a well-curated collection of each artist’s body of work. An energetic exchange of artistic visions and personal histories and ideas among the artists made for an atmosphere sparkling with creativity. The opportunity to meet, greet, and mingle with such a diverse group added to the spice in the air. Second generation art dealer Mitchell Meisner reminisced and likened the excitement of the event to the enthusiasm of the original Art Expos where Warhol, Vasarely, Erté, Agam, Neiman, Agudelo-Botero and so Spring 2009 / cont. many others ushered in the modern era of collecting art multiples. Meisner noted Scaglione’s personal investment of interest was the key element. In art shows, energy, momentum and excitement equate to success. Andy Warhol called for the defining fifteen was the day I met Mr. Albert minutes of fame. This was more fifteen minutes Scaglione. You don’t need many art well articulated. dealers. You need the best. The trick is Upon entering, the front wall of the gallery to find him amongst the others. There displayed the master works. Renoir, Dali, Picasso, and Chagall images all greeted the eye. The space are not great artists without great opened up to the top left balcony gallery, and in the dealers, because, while one is lower gallery to the right a hall of Simon Bull and creativity, the other is it’s Peter Max works. Further to the right, a vast room revelation;… they can only exist in opened to multiple display halls of all the artists’ recognizing each other and working works. Hospitality was offered everywhere, akin to with each other. The triumph of the European events. A free- flow exchange of ideas artist will be that of the dealer, but the instilled the ambiance if excitement in the air upon artist will never have any limelight or entering. This positive high energy accompanied recognition if his dealer doesn’t bring every phase of the event. In speaking to Simon Bull about this new it about. The only way for an artist to portrait series on Muhammad Ali (Park West exist is to be seen by others. The art Gallery has sponsored a project of painting the life of dealer offers this to him.” Muhammad Ali with Simon Bull and is also the Linda Le Kinff exclusive representative for all signed objects and photographs of Muhammad Ali on cruise ships worldwide), he emphasized his enthusiasm about the new direction of his paintings, his admiration of Ali which he is famous. as a person and the opportunity to capture a bit of history. The tempo of Bull’s Romero Britto, who arrived in this country from his native Brazil, and style, from the use of color creates an effect, that, along with a studied became an international phenomenon in his twenties as one of the knowledge of light as an accent, enhanced the Champ’s mainstays of the incredibly popular Absolute Vodka advertising portraits. Bull captured the force of the “floats like a campaign, is an artist widely noted for his many butterfly and stings like a bee” Ali. Well-regarded for contributions to charitable causes. His personal interest landscapes, unfolding flowers and musical motifs, Bull in working with children and his Rain Forest includes in his work a reverence for the mysterious in preservation efforts always make him shine. Britto life, employing a great sense of color and gesture. spoke of his upcoming show at the Louvre where Hungarian-born Csaba Markus delighted he will be the youngest artist in a group exhibit this those in attendance as he spoke of his rapport with fall. Britto’s Pop style, influenced by Braque and Albert Scaglione. Markus found a supporter of Picasso, is well-recognized and continually his dedication to beauty in the Park West Gallery growing in stature with every new body of work. founder. His masterful, old world, Renaissance Comparisons to his Absolute ad-mates - Warhol, style is offered to everyday collectors, as the works Haring, Ron English and Scharf - are obvious and of Rembrandt were offered to the burger-meisters of Britto is still a very young man, a mature artistic his day. Csaba went on to explain that in today’s voice of importance. His works enhance many public marketplace - where the trend may lean toward art less places where his installations serve to lift people’s spirits 6 than beautiful - he has the opportunity to express his love Lin 00 with bright color and wonderful energy, while maintaining d h ,2 p of the ethereal via his stylistic representation. Markus’ images a Le Ki a a connection to his signature forms. nff, Avenir, Serigr of mythic influences and Old World traditions comprise a pure Since its establishment, Park West Gallery has provided fine seriousness of composition depicting his love of feminine beauty with his artwork with a high level of dynamic creativity and quality to more than 1.2 unique line of form. million clients in over 70 countries, helped launch the careers of scores of Israeli artist Itzchak Tarkay, so well-known for his renditions of ladies artists and has grown to become the world’s largest dealer of fine art. bathed in splashes of color, stylistically post-impressionistic, displayed some With his great success, Scaglione gives back to the Detroit community via intense works in the form of powerful landscapes. One, a solitary tree the Park West Foundation. Mitsie Scaglione brought her awareness of a need grounded in moody color, carried the grit and emotion of the Tree of Life. to begin an outreach program for young women at risk to her husband’s Another was bright in color with more complexity, conveying the same attention. vibratory life force of energy as the first. Tarkay’s divergence thematically One of its many beneficiaries, New Directions for Youth, provides a offered insight into the depth of his psyche, accenting the collected works for support system to ease the difficult transition from foster care to a fulfilling “THE LUCKIEST DAY OF MY LIFE © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 51 Spring 2009 / cont. Wendy Schaefer and Linda Le Kinff Romero Britto and Charles Lee Albert Scaglione, CEO, Park West Galleries Lisa Grubb, Howard Behrens, Csaba Markus, Judi Behrens, Simon Bull and Marko Mavrovich (kneeling in front of group) Scott Jacobs, Jean-Claude Picot, Dominic Pangborn and Peter Nixon Alfred Gockel, Linda Le Kinff and Simon Bull Aldo Luongo with Judi & Howard Behrens Tim Yanke, Maggie Chen, Hua Chen, Nicky Yanke and Marcus Glenn Nano Lopez Kevin Miles, James Coleman, Simon Bull, Marcus Glenn, Alfred Gockel and Wendy Schaefer Dick Durrstein and Scott Jacobs 52 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Albert Scaglione addresses the crowd Spring 2009 / cont. Simon Bull, All I Need Is You, 1997, 23" x 23" Aquatint, hand-colored with acrylic inks, pastel and hand-applied gold foil on wove paper. Signed in pencil and numbered life for young adults about to “age-out” of the state-sponsored support system. Today, seventy young women who may otherwise have been forgotten are given personal, professional guidance and unfailing accessibility to the Scaglione’s day and night, 24/7. “We’re confident we will achieve our goal of providing a safe environment for those most vulnerable in our community,” says Scaglione, “and provide opportunities for these young people to attain a better life and a chance to experience the American Dream.” Scaglione’s dedication to the Detroit community is a fabric of the Park West Gallery’s corporate policy. Through its artists and affiliations with universities and organizations, Park West Gallery also supports young artists throughout the world. For more details, visit www.parkwestgallery.com Csaba Markus, Beau Eudoria, From the Beau Monde Suite, 2006, 8" x 5 3/4" Hand-embellished serigraph on wood panel. Signed in gold ink and numbered. THE LEGENDARY AGAM philosophy. Yaacov Gipstein - AGAM - was born Agam’s great opportunity came in in 1928 to an orthodox family in Rishon 1953, when he exhibited his new creations Lezion in the costal plain south of Tel Aviv, at the Galérie Craven, Paris, in his first than a small, semi-rural settlement. His one-man show. This was the first solo father, Rabbi Yehoshua Gipstein (who exhibition ever held totally dedicated to devoted his life to Jewish religious learning, “Art in Movement” and was described by meditation and fasting) refused to register Agam as his “artistic birth.” He his son in a school, because no place in a immediately became a focus of public religious school was available (the excellent interest, and he soon became acknowledged local secular school was, apparently, out of as one of the pioneers of the new kinetic the question). Consequently, the boy Agam, Yaacov, Hidden Rainbow, c. 1985, 11 3/4'' x 21 1/4'', Serigraph art and the greatest virtuoso of the group. grew up without any formal education and almost without the company of other children. At home, however, Ever since, Agam has created numerous works which can be seen in Agam absorbed the heritage of Jewish spiritual values and thought all parts of the world. Although they show a great variety of artistic and was particularly attracted to Jewish mystic lore and Kabbalistic content, from, style, technique and materials, all are marked by the studies as practiced by his father, the learned rabbi. Agam considers same constant features, which are characteristic of his creative himself as his spiritual continuant in his devotion to the study of these mentality, joie de vivre and spiritual training. values. This heritage remains at the core of much of Agam’s artistic © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 53 April 15, 2009 EDITORIAL 3PHFSµT3JHIU$PSOFS Commentary By Roger Cathcart Its' the People You Meet! cruise is a great way to get away and meet new people. The cruise we recently took was on my favourite line – Norwegian – and was out of the great winter cruise hub of Miami, an amazing port with great numbers of cruise ships leaving most days. Our ship was the Norwegian Jewel, a fairly new vessel as luxurious as they make them. The cruise consultant spent a lot of her time in the nine-day run promoting future cruises, including a $100 credit to those signing up for a $250 deposit for a future cruise. A lot of people took advantage of the offer. The Jewel was full with about 2,500 guests and over a thousand staff, with a lot of them from eastern Europe and the Philippines, but also from other places in the world. Most don’t make a lot of money but are well looked after and make a lot on tips. The first two people I met were two Welsh guys, both steelworker retirees who had the unusual job of looking after the floors on this and other ships, checking A 54 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® ii themi ford cleanliness, wear and tear, and to be sure no one would slip and fall or receive any injuries. They told me that they mainly worked in late hours and for a contractor who flew them around the world and paid for their accommodation, food and travel, plus a decent salary. The cruise lines obviously pay for this service, and they enjoyed the work even though the hours were long and they were well past retirement age. I chatted with a number of waiters and waitresses, including a young man from the Philippines who said he was very interested in convincing his wife to immigrate to Canada. He spoke good English and said he was a hard worker. I agreed that he would make a good Canadian. The most interesting people were the Park West Art Auction people – a fixture on Norwegian lines – whose job was to sell art from the largest gallery in the world. This was the third cruise with an auctioneer and his/her assistants, and they surely are the best even though it was a tough sell as a lot of people were not bidding in spite of a lot of low beginning prices. The head guy was a young and enthusiastic man named Trevor Johnson from Houston, Texas. Trevor had worked in other capacities on cruise ships, but said he really liked this job. He had learned about art and the artists while on the job, but his knowledge is impressive and you would swear he had a degree in fine arts. He is also very articulate – a true auctioneer – and really works at getting the bids and selling the paintings. His main assistant was Etienne, a white South African. He and I discussed the present dangers of being a white person in this dangerous country. He told me that his mother still lives there but had lost her business, and the last time he visited he was held up and robbed. Etienne does not plan April 15, 2009 Page 11 The Reminder to return to his native country but will go elsewhere – a wise decision. Trevor’s second assistant was a Serbian named Aggy. He told me he had been in Canada but was sent away when his visa expired. He hopes to get an American visa and then apply to become a Canadian. Let’s hope he makes it. One other person of interest was a Canadian passenger from Calgary, a manager in the oil patch. His company had promoted him and sent him to manage in the oil industry of Siberia. He had traveled back and forth but married a Siberian girl and has actually been living there. He told me the oil industry was not doing well and he had recently been forced to lay off 300 Siberians and five Canadians – a painful experience. By the way, a few tips for cruising that this writer has learned. First, do not eat as much as the others, as there is food, food, food everywhere and anytime, and you will surely gain unwanted pounds. Secondly, work out in the great workout rooms to stay in shape and keep the pounds off. Thirdly, bring lots of money, as everything is costly and designed to separate the passenger from his cash – drink prices are even much higher than in Manitoba! Fourthly, if you are driving home do not go through International Falls and Fort Francis on the route to Kenora. We had to because of the floods, but never again! The border crossing has an outrageous toll bridge, about 100 feet of old steel at a cost for cars of $6 and more for trucks. The roads are brutal, confusing and slow right up to the Manitoba border. I can’t imagine a worse way to get back to Canada! Roger’s Right Corner runs Wednesdays. April 2009 Going Once … Going Twice … Buying art at sea with confidence Art auctions at sea have become one of the most talked-about activities on cruise ships around the world. Many passengers are introduced to the idea of collecting fine art for the first time at these glamorous onboard events. The paintings and prints on display are beautiful; the auctioneers are informative and engaging. But how can newcomers to art get past their initial reluctance to participate? Savvy shoppers can now have fun at the auctions and purchase works of art with more confidence than ever before thanks to an enhanced customer satisfaction guarantee introduced by Park West Gallery, the cruise industry leader in art auctions at sea. One of the largest art dealerships in the world based on unit sales, Park West Gallery has been in business for 40 years. Park West Gallery guarantees the quality and authenticity for every work sold — as the company has done for 40 years. “Since our founding in 1969, we’ve had the pleasure of providing fine art to more than 1.2 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 55 April 2009 / cont. million people through our land and sea auctions and our gallery,” said Albert Scaglione, Park West Gallery founder and chief executive officer. “Customers have always been able to purchase art and collectables with confidence at Park West Gallery.” Park West Gallery’s collection includes works by such popular living artists as Peter max, Romero Britto, Itzchak Tarkay, Thomas Kinkade, Scott Jacobs, JeanClaude Picot, Alfred Gockel, Csaba Markus, Yaacov Agam, Marcus Glenn, and Dominic Pangborn, as well as historic works by Picasso, Chagall, Dali, Rembrandt, Renoir, and other great masters. “More than 90 percent of the works we sell are by living artists our customers can meet and interact with on their cruises,” said Scaglione. “Acquiring beautiful objects for your home created by talented people you actually learn from face-toface is especially rewarding. We have thousands of clients who have told us the experiences interacting with the artists are among the most enjoyable of their lives. That’s the greatest compliment we and the cruise operators can receive.” More information about Park West Gallery and its customer satisfaction policy can be found on the company’s Web site at www.parkwestgallery.com. 56 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® March 2009 DETROIT JEWISH NEWS Peek inside the personal collection of Park West Gallery's director. WRITTEN BY KHRISTI ZIMMETH | PHOTOGRAPHS BY GENE MEADOWS A large work by Marc Chagall hangs in the front hall of Morris and MaryAnn Shapiro’s Novi home. “It’s definitely one of my favorites,” the 56-year-old Park West Gallery says of Le Mariage, a 1976 aquatint framed in black that depicts a traditional Jewish wedding. “We bought it for each other as a wedding gift.” A tour of the Shapiros’ contemporary home reveals more than 100 other works, all with personal meaning. Hanging over the living-room sofa is a large contemporary piece by Miro; and nearby, the small gold-framed Portrait of Jan Lutman the Goldsmith is by Rembrandt. In the family room, a large piece by Detroit artist Marcus Glenn hangs over the fireplace. Other walls hold a Matisse-like drawing, works by 1998 World Cup artist Linda LeKinff and mysterious and otherworldly images by New York artist Robert Kipness. Many share Shapiro’s Jewish heritage. “I don’t have a traditional art collection, per se,” he explains. “I’m immersed in art. My collection is eclectic and based on personal experiences and relationships with artists. Each means something special to me.” Working with Southfield’s 63,000-square-foot Park West Gallery has enabled Shapiro to meet many of the artists whose work now hangs in the home he shares with MaryAnn and 14-year-old daughter Amanda. Three other children – Mia, Myles and Mason – are grown. A family portrait by artist Peter Max hangs over the living room’s grand piano, and a tour of his collection is sprinkled with stories and reminiscences of artists he has been fortunate enough to meet and work with. Working directly with artists is one of the best parts of the job, he says, and a dream since he was a child. Shapiro grew up in Chicago in the 1950s and ‘60s. His mother, he says, decorated the house with gaudy French Provincial furniture and accessories. “It was really hideous,” he remembers. “There was no art on the walls, so I made my own. I drew and painted in part to rebel against my parents.” Thumbing through a book on the Holy Land one day in his parents’ library, he came across a woodcut of Adam and Eve by Albrecht Durer. “I was mesmerized by the contours and lines and Durer’s use of space,” he says. “From that moment on, I was smitten.” He eventually followed Durer into drawing, going on to study at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. While there, he shifted his emphasis from studio art to art history and art criticism, later working at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts before returning to the Windy City to pursue another passion – music. After playing the drums professionally for a time, Shapiro took a position as gallery director for Chicago’s Merrill Chase Galleries, where he worked from 1977-1983. Park West Gallery director Morris Shapiro sits with his wife, MaryAnn, in front of the painting Family Portrait, a gift from artist Peter Max. Contemporary artist Igor Medvedev, whose quietly elegant Late Fishing hangs above a cherry-wood Ello sideboard in the dining room of Morris and MaryAnn Shapiro’s Novi home, says that his work is about capturing “visual miracles.” © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 57 March 2009 / cont. DETROIT JEWISH NEWS Above, left; Shapiro suggests rotating the artwork in your house: “It helps to revisit the works and refresh the home,” he says. Currently in the prized spot above the fireplace is Harmony of Equilibriums Flow by Marcus Glenn, an African-American Southfield artist. Shapiro, a musician, and Glenn have visited jazz clubs together in Detroit, where Glenn has sketched Shapiro in a series of his paintings. Above, right: In this 1656 etching, Rembrandt depicts Jan Lutma, a well-known goldsmith at the time whose son presumably studied with Rembrandt. “Rembrandt sought a psychological portraiture,” says Shapiro. “He wanted to convey the inner personality of the sitter, not just a likeness.” In 1983, he came to Detroit to head Park West’s retail gallery, where he’s been ever since. After 25 years, he’s still passionate about the company’s philosophy of bringing art to the public. “In many ways, art has been taken away from the people and made less accessible,” he says. “It’s gratifying to be able to swing the pendulum back to allow people to experience art firsthand.” While Shapiro is serious about his art, not all of his art is serious. Another favorite piece in his collection is a drawing by animator Chuck Jones, dedicated to daughter Amanda. “It was really neat to meet him,” Shapiro says. While eclectic, Shapiro says his collection reflects his interests and life. He’s passionate about reading, writing and music. He loves to travel to Europe and the family’s second home in Scottsdale, Ariz. He participates in jazz jam sessions whenever possible and is currently collaborating with Amanda, a burgeoning singer-songwriter, on her first demo recording. He enjoys spending his time with his first grandchild, Matthew. A member of Temple Shir Shalom in West Bloomfield, Shapiro also is passionate about his family and his faith. He believes it “is about being appreciative of the blessings I have in life, the sanctity of family, the observance of and passing on of tradition,” he says. “My religion also provides for me a perspective of how short life is, how miniscule and insignificant we are, how God’s creations are miraculous and infinite and how fortunate [we are] for every day we are given. Each day is a gift of inestimable value.” He believes others interested in collecting art should follow the same philosophy, allowing art to enhance their life, not just their wallets. “Knowing what you like is the entrance into the art world,” he says. “People should buy art because they love it. It should be collected for its emotional and spiritual benefits, not its financial benefits. It’s really the only way to go.” 58 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Above; Morris Shapiro sits in front of Le Marriage by Marc Chagall, a wedding gift Shapiro and his wife, MaryAnn, gave to each other. “The couple stands together under the chuppah and surrounding them is a visual feast of celebration – dancers, musicians, friends, family and children,” says Shapiro. “His drawing talent was one of Chagall’s greatest gifts, and this work, absent of color, focuses the viewer on his extraordinary draftsmanship.” Two lithographs by Robert Kipness, gifts from the artist, are displayed in the light-strewn powder room. “They take on a dreamy, déjà-vu quality, and you have to take time to look at them,” says Shapiro. September 25, 2008 Park West Gallery named Best Art Gallery in Detroit in WDIV-TV (NBC – Detroit) “Vote 4 the Best” contest SOUTHFIELD, MI. – Park West Gallery has been named the Best Art Gallery in metro Detroit in the WDIV-TV 4 (NBC – Detroit) “Vote 4 the Best” contest. Celebrating its 40th year in business, Park West Gallery features artwork by many of today’s greatest living artists such as Peter Max, Itzachak Tarkay, Thomas Kinkade and Yaacov Agam, as well as masters such as Picasso, Chagall, Dali and Rembrandt. Park West Gallery also features art works by metro Detroit artists Dominic Pangborn and Marcus Glenn. “Customers have always been able to purchase fine art and collectables with confidence at Park West Gallery,” said Albert Scaglione, founder and chief executive officer. “Being voted the best art gallery in metro Detroit further shows the positive experiences of our thousands of clients.” “Vote 4 the Best” is a promotional contest and city guide conducted by WDIV-TV’s website ClickonDetroit.com and CityVoter.com that profiles local businesses and allows consumers to vote for their favorites in dozens of categories. CityVoter.com allows consumers to share their insight on a city with information, ratings and reviews. Park West Gallery (www.parkwestgallery.com) is located at 29469 Northwestern, Southfield, MI. Selling approximately 300,000 works of art each year, Park West Gallery is one of the world's largest art dealers. The company conducts auctions across the United States, Canada and other locations worldwide, as well as at sea on cruise ships around the world. The Park West Gallery collection includes oil and acrylic paintings, watercolors and drawings, hand-signed limited edition etchings, lithographs, serigraphs, and hand embellished graphic works, as well as animation art and selected sports memorabilia. Park West Gallery’s research and catalog departments are among the most respected in the world. In addition to Park West's Gallery's 63,000 square foot headquarters gallery in Southfield, MI., the company operates a gallery, framing and distribution center in its 181,000 square foot facility in Miami Lakes, FL. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 59 Spring, 2009 centralight Art Giving for all BY BARBARA SUTHERLAND CHOVANEC Gallery owner spreads joy of appreciation Albert Scaglione wants to make art accessible to everyone. How to buy fine art Albert Scaglione, founder and owner of Park West Gallery, offers these tips for a positive art-buying experience. Let your own taste drive you. Buy what you like, not what someone else says you should like. Do your research. Find out about the artist, if the price seems logical, whether or not there have been previous owners and where the art has been displayed. Know who you’re dealing with – the artist or the company. Be sure the people who are selling your art to you know what they’re talking about. Consider an appraiser. They have the resources to do research for you. Enjoy your choice. You should experience joy – an uplifting feeling. To help achieve this, the founder of Park West Gallery in Southfield donates art to universities, including a significant gift to CMU, to create what he calls “living museums.” “It’s invigorating – the idea that we can get more people exposed to art,” Scaglione says. Scaglione has been in the art dealership business for 40 years. Park West Gallery, the largest independently owned gallery of fine art in the world, conducts fine art auctions throughout the U.S. and Canada and aboard cruise ships around the world. A scientist by training, Scaglione’s distinguished art gallery career began on an unconventional path. After earning a doctorate in engineering in the 1960s, he taught mechanical engineering at Wayne State University and conducted magneto hydrodynamics research for space travel projects underwritten by NASA. When these projects ended and Scaglione sought a new career, he turned to his fond memories of a summer job in his cousin’s art gallery in New Jersey, stretching, framing and hanging paintings. Scaglione’s love of art and galleries led him and his wife, Mitsie, to build Park West Gallery and begin hosting art auctions wherever they could – in churches, hotels and public spaces. “Our business model has been to get the art to the people,” Scaglione says. “We very much love to be the people who teach you and introduce you to art.” A deeply religious man, Scaglione also is committed to serving his community and has established the Park West Gallery Foundation, which helps female wards of the court in the Detroit area with medical, counseling and legal needs. “We feel blessed to be in this community,” he says. “There’s a huge amount of joy wrapped up in helping others.” PHOTO BY ROBERT BARCLAY Scaglione, indeed, exudes joy. He’s able to help people in need, live in the Detroit community that he loves and share the pleasures of art. r 30 60 centralight spring ’09 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Decmeber 18, 2008 Park West Gallery CEO Albert Scaglione delivers commencement address at Central Michigan University – receives honorary Ph.D. Park West Gallery Founder and Chief Executive Officer inspires students with message of “the four C’s” of success SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Albert Scaglione, founder and chief executive officer of Park West Gallery, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Commercial Science by Central Michigan University (CMU) at commencement ceremonies on December 13. Scaglione also delivered the commencement address to graduating seniors, inspiring students with what he described as “the four C’s” of recruiting and relationships for success. Scaglione holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology and a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan State University. He taught mechanical engineering sciences at Wayne State University and conducted aeronautical research funded by NASA early in his career before deciding to transition to the world of art. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Park West Gallery is one of the world’s largest art dealers, selling approximately 300,000 works of art each year and employing more than 700 people. “It is a great honor to be selected by Central Michigan University to speak to graduating seniors and help inspire them to pursue their dreams,” said Scaglione. “I also am deeply grateful to receive an honorary degree by one of Michigan’s premier educational institutions.” CMU Board of Trustees Chairman Jeff Caponigro said, “Albert Scaglione is an inspiring success story – an entrepreneur who has had the vision and determination to create one of the most successful businesses in Michigan.” Scaglione has been a supporter of Central Michigan University for many years, donating numerous pieces of artwork. CMU President Michael Rao said, “Albert Scaglione’s efforts have made a tremendous impact to help beautify the Central Michigan University campus.” Scaglione’s message to the graduating seniors included “the four C’s” that are critical when looking for a job and being successful at it. The first “C” stands for “calling,” -- “You have to make sure you have a calling for the position you have, or are seeking. Even if your first job is at McDonald’s making hamburgers, you have to convince yourself that, at that point in your life, you are called to that job, and will be as good as you can be at it.” The second “C” stands for “character” -- “You need to demonstrate to your potential employer and those you will work with, that you are a person of character by being a person of character. You need to be honest – always – and carry yourself with the highest integrity.” The third “C” is for “chemistry” – “No one wants to hire or work with someone who they can’t get along with. Have a positive attitude, be a team player and work well with others.” The fourth “C” stands for “competency” -- “I’ve listed it last because there are a lot of competent people who are not successful in what they do because they don’t recognize the value of the other three C’s, and they fail to develop them. Regarding all of the “C’s,” they are lifelong processes to be developed. You’ve likely learned a lot here at CMU that will help you, but you must continue to learn as much as you can when you leave here; you must further hone and develop these skills.” Scaglione also told the graduates about the “importance of having faith and believing in something bigger and more powerful than you.” He said it doesn’t matter which religion might be followed, but it’s important to have deep faith that can provide some guidance and strength every day and in difficult times. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 61 August 28, 2008 Young Detroiters Meet Muhammad Ali Park West Gallery Foundation Sponsors Memorable Visit to Louisville's Muhammad Ali Center SOUTHFIELD, Mich., August 28 A special group of Detroit-area young women and men enjoyed the once-in-a-lifetime experience of meeting Muhammad Ali in person thanks to an educational program sponsored by Southfield’s Park West Foundation in association with Park West Gallery. Park West Gallery founder Albert Scaglione and his wife Mitsie accompanied the young Detroiters to Louisville last week to visit with the international boxing legend at the city’s acclaimed Muhammad Ali Center. “Muhammad Ali, perhaps more than any other living celebrity, represents a universal standard of personal excellence, dignity and achievement,” said Scaglione. “He is an inspiration to the world, and our young friends are returning with stories and motivation that will last a lifetime.” The young women and men - - Jewel Rich 19, Latasha Posey 19, Dayanna Holland-Womack 14, Calisia Clinkscale 19, Shaina Riser 19, Steve Curry 18, Dondraill Thomas 17, Derica Clinkscale 18, Latoya Posey 18 — who are aging out of foster care and are beneficiaries of Park West Foundation’s FAMILY project, did not go to Louisville empty handed. They, along with their mentors Saba Gebrai and Weusi Olusola, presented Muhammad Ali with an award expressing their thanks and admiration for the Olympic Gold Medal winner and three-time heavyweight champion of the world. “It was emotional to watch the movie about his life,” said Latasha Posey. “It was great that he didn’t give up. He kept fighting for what he believed in and that’s what he said to us, never give up.” “It was inspiring, moving and educational for each and every youth to embody the message of finding the greatness within through the spiritual journey of the life and work of Muhammad Ali,” said Gebrai. “I was simply in awe to be in his presence. We are grateful to him, his wife Loni and the Muhammad Ali Center for their gracious reception of our youth from Detroit.” Albert Scaglione has gifted and lent several ® paintings by Park West Gallery artists Simon Bull and Peter Max, along with rare Ali signed 62 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® A group of Detroit-area young women and men enjoyed the once-in-a-lifetime experience of meeting Muhammad Ali in person through the Park West Foundation in association with Park West Gallery. Park West Gallery founder Albert Scaglione and his wife Mitsie accompanied the young Detroiters to Louisville to visit with the international boxing legend at the city's acclaimed Muhammad Ali Center photographs to the Center. “We anticipate that over time these important works - - which celebrate a man who has lived as a champion inside and outside the boxing ring - - will become part of this extraordinary Center’s permanent art collection.” Visitors to the 60,000 square-foot museum and learning center, which opened in 2005, are able to view a selection of Ali-inspired art in a dedicated Part West Gallery exhibit area. Featured are a number of Ali action portraits by famed British artist Simon Bull, each signed by Ali and Bull. “The chance to both portray a legend and have him sign your work is a dream most artists never have the opportunity to fulfill,” said Bull. The Park West Foundation is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2005 by Park West Gallery founder and CEO Albert Scaglione and his wife Mitsie as a way to give back to their community. Among the many initiatives of the Park West Foundation is the FAMILY project. The FAMILY project provides young people about to “age out” of Foster care with a safe, loving, family environment as well as mentoring, resources, and opportunities that will help these young people move toward productive and fulfilling adult lives. The Park West Foundation is funded mainly through financial contributions and donations of art. ® Park West Gallery , one of the world's largest art dealers by unit sales, conducts fine art auctions across the United States and Canada. Park West Gallery also conducts art auctions at sea on 85 cruise ships around the world. In addition to its 63,000 square foot world headquarters, main gallery and fine art conservation facility in Southfield, Michigan, Park West Gallery operates a 181,000 square foot framing and distribution center in Miami Lakes, Florida, and maintains a catalog sales business. Park West Gallery pioneered a unique business model in the world of art auctions. At the Park West Gallery Fine Art auctions, nearly 90 percent of the art work offered comes directly from the studios of living artists. Park West Gallery is well-known for having brought the art work of many of the world’s leading artists, including M.C. Escher, Victor Vasarely, Yaacov Agam, Peter Max, Romero Britto, and Itzchak Tarkay, to a broad audience of art collectors from all over the globe. Park West Gallery’s extensive relationships with artists and its ability to reach art enthusiasts around the world helps generate sales of more than 100,000 works of fine art each year. During 40 years in business, Park West Gallery has brought the world of fine art to over 1.2 million clients in more than 60 countries. August 13, 2008 Park West Gallery sponsors Cornerstone Schools event year more than ever, Cornerstone needs Cornerstone seeks to achieve the following: at Comerica Park This the help of the community to re-enroll their an excellent education for 1,131 children students this fall. One hundred percent of the donation goes to the Cornerstone Scholarship fund. Many of the parents whose children now attend Cornerstone are at or below the poverty line and have been negatively impacted by the economic conditions in the city. Most of the parents work two jobs to cover the cost of their child's education. All parents must pay something towards their's child's tuition regardless of their financial means. A donation to Cornerstone's Scholarship fund fills the financial gap. DETROIT, Sept. 5 PRNewswire-USNewswire On Monday, September 8th, Cornerstone Schools and the Detroit Tigers will host the 3rd annual Be A Tiger For Kids event at Comerica Park. This notable event is a thank you to thousands across various communities in and around metropolitan Detroit who have helped to provide an excellent education to 1,131 children who attend Cornerstone Schools. Cornerstone Schools encourage those from the community to donate at CornerstoneSchools. org and help to change a life and create a new city for all through education excellence. As a thank you for qualifying donations one will receive entry to the Rock 'n Roar pre-game party on September 8th, a fun family event with food, entertainment, games provided and tickets to the 7:05 pm Tigers vs. Oakland A's ball game. The Cornerstone choir will sing the national anthem and thank the thousands of supporters on hand sporting bright orange tee shirts. "It is quite the visual. We are fortunate to have the support of so many from the various communities in and around Detroit; however, we have yet to reach our financial goals for the 2008/2009 school year. We need help from the community to continue with our mission to educate the children of the city. As individuals there is nothing greater one can do than to change a life and provide a child with a future," says Clark Durant, CEO, Cornerstone Schools. Cornerstone Schools are high performing faith based independent schools in Detroit. Through the support of the community, Cornerstone children, a broad and beloved community of friends to surround these children with excellent role models and supporters who can help provide scholarship assistance so our current children can reenroll this fall, and a sustainable model that will drive change for excellence in the larger system. The Be A Tiger For Kids event is sponsored by over 30 corporate sponsors which include; AT&T, Beaumont Hospitals, Big Boy, Cargill, Cunnington Family Foundation, Detroit Medical Center, DTE Energy, Fisher & Company, GM, ITC Holdings Corp., Masco Corporation, Meijer, MTU Detroit Diesel, National City, National Logistics Management, Park West Galleries, Price Waterhouse Coopers LLP, William Pulte, Richard Helppie, Shuert Enterprises, Soave Enterprises, The Broad Foundation, Weldaloy, Yazaki and others. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 63 August, 2008 Art World News A UGUST 2008 Park West Marks 40th Anniversary ® INTERNATIONAL ARTEXPO MIAMI TO LAUNCH IN DECEMBER PARK WEST GALLERY INTRODUCES 40-40-40 POLICY, AN ENHANCED CUSTOMER SATISFACTION possessed by GUARANTEE The International foremostArtexpo skill Miami all successful art businesses is the undeniable ability to nurture a West Gallery relationship between a collector and a wonderful piece of art. Regardless of the size and scope of each business, this is a requirement if the firm wishes to flourish as a seller of art. This point was made emphatically for me last month while attending the anniversary celebration of Park West Gallery's 40 years in business. In attendance were nearly four dozen artists who traveled from around the world to celebrate the achievement, as well as collectors and staff who are boundlessly dedicated to sharing art with the public. The ongoing story of the firm's success is grounded in what makes our industry great—our ability to enrich the lives of others through art. The company's story is as unique as it is topical because Park West is an art business that is dealing with the same challenges that all galleries face. Their response to the market is derived from their philosophy and their commitment to art and the artists they sell. Hence, I have extended an invitation to Albert Scaglione, founder and CEO of Park West to share with our readers his perspective and insight on what has made his company prosper in the past and to identify what he sees as the drivers of success in the future. John Haffey, Publisher, Art World News. Park Bottom row, from left: Simon Bull, Jay Lefkowitz, Mark Kanovich, Victor Spahn, David Najar, Alfred Gockel, Marko Mavrovich, and Dominic Pangborn. Middle row, from left: Wendy Schaffer, Anatole Krasnyansky, Holland Berkley, Albert Scaglione, Itzchak Tarkay, Morry Shapiro, Csaba Markus, Noah, and Toby Bluth. Top row, from left: Harrison Ellenshaw, Hua Chen, Peter Nixon, Alexander Chen, Kevin Miles, Yuval Wolfson, Jean-Claude Picot, Lisa Grubb, Nano Lopez, Fanch Ledan, Debra Tritico, James Coleman, Charles Lee, Yolanda Glenn, Marcus Glenn, Dick Duerrstein, Andrew Bone, Tom Murray, and Howard Behrens. AWN: What was your original vision for Park West Gallery back in 1969? Albert Scaglione: Our mission—and I call it a mission because we approach our business with great passion and purpose—is the same today as it was 40 years ago. We were convinced that introducing fine art into the lives of people who did not live in New York, Los Angeles, or other major markets with a strong presence of galleries and auction houses would be a successful and rewarding business. So that's what we did and continue to do through our galleries and land and sea auctions. AWN: From the start you reached out to artists, as well as to customers, to build lasting relationships. Was that central to your mission? AS: Absolutely. Most people are surprised to learn that more than 90% of the art we offer represents works by living artists that we represent directly—talented individuals from all over the world we consider part of our Park West family. Strong relationships between dealer and artist are certainly not new, but what we have nurtured over four decades is enduring relationships between our artists and customers. It is not unusual for our clients to have met and discussed the art they purchase with the artist who created it. Historically that was an experience enjoyed by only the wealthiest of art patrons. Extending that opportunity to 1.2 million clients has been one of our proudest accomplishments. continued on next page 64 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® August, 2008 / cont. Art World News A UGUST 2008 Park West Marks 40th Anniversary continued AWN: Please name some of your living and expertise. So as art dealers who artists. have built our reputations and earned INTERNATIONAL PARK WEST GALLERY ARTEXPO MIAMI TO INTRODUCES 40-40-40 trust over many years, our challenge AS: LAUNCH The photograph atANour IN DECEMBER taken POLICY, ENHANCED event (above) shows the CUSTOMER more than is to distinguish ourselves as much as International Artexpo SATISFACTION 40 artists in our 40th possible by staying close to our artists, Miami who participatedGUARANTEE providing real-world experiences to anniversary celebration. Park maximize the joy of purchasing and West Gallery living with fine art. So we have a terrific AWN: How large a part of your opportunity to humanize the experience business are the auctions at sea? by bringing people together with AS: They have grown to be a very people—beyond the computer screen. important part of our business. Every month we sell thousands of works of AWN: With so much information— art to customers on many cruise lines accurate and inaccurate—out their around the globe. In fact, the cruise in cyberspace, how do you earn and environment could be the ideal gallery maintain customer confidence? situation. There isn't a dealer anywhere who wouldn't want the opportunity to AS: After 40 years in business, time interact with and inform clients in a is certainly on our side. You don't stay relaxed setting, during multiple visits alive, let alone grow over that long a over many days. The typical cruise is period of time if you are not delivering seven or more days, during which time value, building relationships, and we connect clients with artists and our earning people's confidence. But experts. It's a wonderful experience we never stop trying to improve the because at sea the dealer can almost customer experience. For example, step away to allow the bonding that as we enter the fifth decade, we are occurs between artists and artwork and introducing an enhanced customer satisfaction guarantee. We believe client. this goes above and beyond any other guarantee in the industry, and are AWN: In 40 years what has been the convinced this will make the Park biggest change in your business and our West purchasing experience even more industry? worry-free than it's been over the last AS: The Internet, without a doubt. And four decades. it's been both a blessing and a curse. Digital communication empowers us AWN: What in your opinion are the to reach millions of people and inform most difficult challenges facing art them about art like never before. But the dealers and auction houses over the online world can be like the Wild, Wild short term? West sometimes, with anybody saying anything about anything. There are few AS: Clearly we are in a very challenging checks on accuracy, accountability, economic environment right now, and we in the art world are not immune from these forces. This puts an even higher importance on staying with quality, getting artists out in front of the customer—in person, through video, online—and delivering an enjoyable, inspiring experience. AWN: What's on the horizon as far as customer taste? AS: I have seen increasing enthusiasm for artists who express themselves effectively in multiple mediums. Clients form a relationship and fondness for an artist's paintings and want to see how the artist expresses himself or herself through sculpture, watercolor, etching, lithography, serigraphy, or other media. The artists with the greatest range are thriving. AWN: You have seen and experienced a lot over 40 years, but what has been your greatest satisfaction? AS: The knowledge that we have brought a new way of life to people who may never have experienced the joy of collecting fine art without the relationship they've formed with Park West. I have seen tears in the eyes of clients from all walks of life who express to me the enthusiasm they now have for theatre, museums, and other pursuits that were not a part of their lives before we sparked an interest in and nurtured a love for art. There are many stories like that make me feel very good about the last 40 years and optimistic about the years to come. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 65 July 17, 2008 Park West Gallery Receives 2008 Best of Southfield Award ® U.S. Local Business Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement WASHINGTON D.C., July 17, 2008 -- Park West Gallery has been selected for the 2008 Best of Southfield Award in the Art Galleries & Dealers category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA). ® The USLBA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community. Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2008 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties. About U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USLBA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising. The USLBA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America. 66 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® June 5, 2008 At 80, Yaacov Agam still vibrant with his artwork and other ideas DETROIT (JTA) — It would be easy to characterize Yaacov Agam as a painter in the twilight of his career. he said. "It was in the past and never changing.” The celebrated Israeli artist, who turned 80 last month, is focused on preserving his legacy of great public works and building an eponymous museum in his birthplace, Rishon LeZion. Agam is set in his ways and topics he wants to discuss, and he hires the same French-speaking limousine driver whenever he visits the United States. The concept was at odds with the kabbalistic upbringing by his father, Rabbi Yehoshua Gibstein, the author of several books on Jewish spirituality who also was known to doodle on napkins. But that would be a superficial dismissal of the artist, who like his surname, the Hebrew word for “lake,” shimmers with infinite ideas beneath the surface. For starters, he says, “I don’t feel 80. And anyway, 80 in the Talmud corresponds to strength.” The dark moustache of his youth has given way to a long white beard, but the deeply spiritual Agam remains serious, sharp and agile. He is at work on a show to be unveiled in his adopted city of Paris in October that he promises is “completely new.” Agam also has been jet-setting to birthday parties in his honor in Miami, Detroit and New York City, where on Monday the French and Israeli consulates held a joint event in honor of Israel’s 60th anniversary and “80 years of Agam.” He also aspires to win a Nobel Prize for an awardwinning educational program he developed that strengthens visual skills and memory in preschool children. Many schools across Israel have implemented the Agam Smarts program. In visual cognition tests conducted by the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, children were asked to identify shapes in complex drawings. Those who participated in the exercises outperformed those who did not. “This will be my greatest contribution, as important as my artwork,” Agam said. “Because if we can learn a new way to see, we can unleash creativity, and creativity brings solutions to the world.” His own creations run counter to the time-bound nature of most artworks he saw as a young man. Viewing a painting was like “looking at a gravestone," Agam married a basic premise of Jewish mysticism -- that one never stops transforming as long as one is alive -- to kinetic art, a movement that incorporates Yaacov Agam motion into artistic expression. The movement, which has existed since the early 20th century, is best represented in the larger art world by sculptor Alexander Calder. Among Agam’s greatest works reflecting this aesthetic are the monumental fountain integrating sculpture, light and the musical orchestration of water jets in La Defense, Paris’ business district; the Dizengoff Plaza fountain of water, fire and music in Tel Aviv; and countless “Agamographs,” many of them containing Jewish subject matter, which present different images depending on the viewing angle. The works all contain the colors of the rainbow, a universal image that Agam has called God’s first gift of art to man. Not everyone agrees that Agam’s oeuvre will stand the test of time. Some critics contend that Agam has made a career of one idea and never evolved, while others call it a fertile concept that has sustained him for more than 60 years of making art. “I think he’s a stone genius,” said Morris Shapiro, the gallery director at ParkWest Gallery in Southfield, Mich., which has exhibited and sold Agam for decades, and also hosted a birthday party for him May 18 in Detroit. “He took up the thread of aesthetics that had been cast aside by conceptual artists such as Marcel DuChamp, added the dimensions of time and space, and taken painting to another level.” ® Agam has an ardent following among Jews and non-Jews. Dr. Steven Eisen of Las Vegas and his wife, Stacey, own 12 Agamographs. Eisen's appreciation of the artist’s work is twofold. “I like the dynamism and the painstaking effort of using hundreds of different colors -- that’s what catches my eye," Eisen said. "I also like the Jewish symbols represented. They mean something to us. It’s certainly nice to have Jewish references in our art collection.” The Eisens, active synagogue-goers, are considering building a larger home because they are running out of wall space. Chris Cameron, of Beverly Hills, Mich., who is a Christian, owns nine Agam works of various sizes and shapes, including two paintings with movable pieces, and an Agam necklace made up of nine concentric circles that can be taken apart and rearranged. Cameron says she is intrigued not only by Agam’s intellect, but also his religious beliefs. “I’ve gained an appreciation of his religion through his art,” she says. “There’s a lot more going on in the painting than what meets the eye initially.” Such comments would seem to mirror Agam’s understanding of his own work. “Central to Judaism is its emphasis on life, and the only constant in life is change,” the artist said. “This is what I’ve incorporated into my art, and today’s society is finally starting to understand this.” © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 67 June 1, 2008 Figuratively Speaking By STEPHANIE ANGELYN CASOLA as seen in NWA World Traveler Since it began in 1969, Park West Gallery has expanded in many ways. It conducts art auctions across the U.S. and Canada as well as on cruise ships. It has an affiliate location in Miami. But the best way to experience Park West is still by visiting its original location on a 3.5-acre site outside Detroit. There, its 63,000-square-foot Greco-Roman building offers 23 exhibit spaces, each devoted to a particular artist or type of art. The gallery is constantly showcasing new works as well as classics by masters like Rembrandt, Picasso and Chagall. ® ® From June 6 – 22, Park West will present “Tarkay: Recent Works” – a collection of more than 40 paintings, watercolors, mixed media and limited-edition serigraphs by figurative artist Itzchak Tarkay. ® “We are Tarkay’s exclusive dealer,” says Park West Gallery Director Morris Shapiro. “Before [his work is] released to the international world, it’s shown first in the Detroit Metropolitan Area.” Shapiro calls Tarkay’s work “extremely influential” and notes that he focuses on beauty in a time when art has become “more confrontational.” ® Located at 29469 Northwestern, Southfield, MI. Call 248-354-2343 or visit parkwestgallery.com. 68 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® May 24, 2008 Buy it because you love it Saturday, May 24, 2008 | By Craig Pearson. As seen in The Windsor Star The real dividend people should seek from art is not financial but emotional. So says Morris Shapiro, director of the Southfield, Michigan based Park West Gallery – the biggest independent art dealer in the world. ® “Our overriding philosophy is that people should buy art because they love it,” Shapiro said Friday. “Because they want to hang it on their walls, they want to look at it, they want to have a relationship with it, they want to keep it for a long time and pass it on to their heirs. That’s really the great benefit of art. It’s an intangible appreciation, not a financial appreciation.” The Park West Gallery was founded in 1969 by Albert Scaglione, a Wayne State University engineering professor, and has grown ever since– attesting to the enduring popularity of fine art. ® Besides selling online, Park West runs art auctions on cruise ships around the world, while at any one time the Southfield gallery, at 29469 Northwestern, features between 500 and 1,000 works of art — from contemporary to masters — in 63,000 square feet of space. ® Over four decades in business, now with 1.2 million customers, Park West has not only expanded its sales, but has seen prices rise on certain works. ® For example, Chagall lithographs bought for $3,000 or $4,000 in the gallery’s early days, Shapiro said, now sell for $30,000 or $40,000. Park West has dealt in everything from Rembrandt and Picasso to Miro and Dali, and sells works from a few hundred dollars to about $1 million. ® But Shapiro stresses that people should buy art as a lifestyle, not a portfolio enhancement, since values typically only jump dramatically over decades. “What I get out of it is being able to enrich people,” Shapiro said. “Introducing art to people’s lives is just thrilling.” © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 69 May 22, 2008 BUSINESS EVIEW R OAKLAND Gallery’s cruise ship strategy makes splash with art sales MIKE SCOTT, as seen in Oakland Business Review The company has a 63,000-square-foot gallery on Northwestern and employs 1,000 individuals globally and more than 200 in Oakland County. It also has a 181,000-square-foot office in South Florida. Southfield artist Marcus Glenn, whose works emphasize African-American culture and American jazz, said the gallery provides a tremendous service to its artists and area residents. He appreciates Shapiro and his staff helping artists garner worldwide exposure. "It's easy for us to celebrate our successes together," Glenn said. "Not everyone realizes what a gem we have here in our backyard - one that (the artistic world) recognizes and values." Albert Scaglione, CEO Park West Gallery ® To have the opportunity to sell million-dollar works of art, you need to have succeeded with a serious business and marketing plan. That's where Southfield's Park West Gallery stands out. The globallyrenowned art dealer/gallery is the world's largest in terms of unit sales, based largely on the strength of its "cruising" strategy. Park West has sold thousands of works of art on cruise ships. ® Park West Gallery and owner Albert Scaglione have created a "new paradigm in how art is presented to the public," says gallery director Morris Shapiro, who has been with the company 25 years. "We've helped to change the model for how new customers can be found in the art world." ® That strategy was on display in late April when 23 of the world's most recognized artists were invited to Southfield to network with 150 of Park West Gallery's cruise ship auctioneers, who are independent contractors. The artists, auctioneers and gallery staff mingled in training sessions and social events. The strategy keeps satisfaction levels of artists and auctioneers high, Shapiro said. ® "It's important for our contractors to meet with the artists and speak with them about their work," Shapiro said. "It provides our auctioneers with a deeper understanding of what motivates the artists and to experience firsthand the enthusiasm that comes through their work." Park West Gallery planned to host an 80th birthday party this month for internationally-recognized artist Yaacov Agam, an Israeli sculptor best known for his contributions to optical and kinetic art. ® Those types of special events are another way Park West Gallery has established a sterling reputation, Shapiro said. ® 70 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Scaglione, a physicist and former Wayne State University professor, turned his love for the arts into the first gallery in Southfield in 1969. Today, the Southfield gallery is filled with works ranging from about $2,000 to six-figure pieces by Rembrandt van Rijn and Pablo Picasso, and a million-dollar piece by French artist PierreAuguste Renoir. Park West Gallery typically turns over thousands of works of art every few weeks, first displaying pieces in Southfield before sending them to cruise ships managed by such companies as Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Lines and Regent. ® Famous artists Displayed Some artists whose works have recently been exhibited at Park West Marc Chagall, Salvador Dali, Francisco Goya, Joan Miro, Rembrandt van Rijn and ToulouseLautrec. ® Recent personal appearances have included: Peter Max, Itzchak Tarkay, Marcel Mouly, Linda LeKinff, Igor Medvedev, Fanch Ledan and animators Chuck Jones, Charles and Thomas McKimson. The Southfield gallery is open to the public and frequently hosts elementary, middle and high school classes. Park West Gallery's management has taken a very analytical approach to artwork sales, based largely on Scaglione's scientific background and philosophies, Shapiro said. The company writes much of its own software to manage the complex customs, accounting methods and shipping required for working with multiple cruise lines worldwide. ® Park West Gallery also has been a beacon of positive public relations for Metro Detroit and Oakland County. "We get some significant coverage in international magazines and trade media, and as a result, there are many people who are excited to come to Detroit," Shapiro said. ® Mike Scott is a freelance writer. May 16, 2008 The original northwest Miami-Dade community newspaper for the Town of Miami Lakes & surrounding areas Albert Molina oversees the largest collection of fine art at the Park West Art Gallery ® art galleries and purchasing paintings that appeal to them. By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Park West Gallery is reportedly the largest collector of fine art in the world. ® And Albert Molina, the company’s president, is making sure it remains the world’s premier arts dealer. Molina runs Park West’s 181,000-square-foot art gallery in Miami Lakes, where he oversees the operation of manufacturing, framing, logistics and shipping of some of the finest work done by eminent artists, including Yaacov Agam, Peter Eastham, Frank Gallo, Jean-Claude Picot and Dominic Pangborn. ® The company, headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, conducts fine art auctions throughout the United States and Canada as it showcases its artists’ paintings emblazoned with custom-made framing, including special wooden frames, linen liners and plexiglass. Born in 1969, Park West actuates three different avenues of selling fine art work. Land-base is the second alternative in which the company showcases the artists’ paintings during events in the United States and Canada, including performing art auctions at different hotels. The art firm’s third selling mode is conducting cruise ship art auctions around the world. The company currently performs art auctions for several major cruise lines Molina told the Miami Laker. “Some of our finest art work can be found on a lot of cruise lines,” Molina said at his art-laden office, which opened in 2004. Park West also specializes in framing sports memorabilia and collectables capturing such images as Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino and Hall of Fame basketball player Kareem Abdul Jabar, and a stolen base reflecting a milestone in the illustrious career of Pete Rose. ® ® The art firm’s first option centers around dilettantes visiting any of the In fact, Park West has an exclusive contract to frame and auction off memorabilia of former boxing great Muhammad Ali, which includes his autographed boxing gloves, boxing ® shorts and pictures capturing his first championship in 1964 against Sonny Liston. “Muhammad Ali [memorabilia] is great to work with,” Molina said. “We handle a lot of sports figures as well and they are so authentic that that’s how far we go to show you we are the world’s largest art dealer.” Molina said Miami Lakes was the perfect location for the Park West Art Gallery for several reasons. ® He said, significantly, the town is located close to Opa-locka and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood airports, but more importantly, near the Port of Miami and Port Everglades. And the art firm hired most of it’s workforce from the town. The art gallery in Miami Lakes employs about 500 employees, Molina said. “The Miami Lakes location offers us a great opportunity for our business,” Molina said. “And the employees from Miami Lakes are wonderful people. It’s a great pool to work with.” Molina said the company has fleet managers to sell and auction off art on cruise ships and other locations. All sales people on the ships and around the country go through training to learn new sales and marketing techniques. Molina got involved in the art framing business when he was 14 years old. He quipped by saying his mother told him it was time to “get a job.” His © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 71 May 16, 2008 / cont. The original northwest Miami-Dade community newspaper for the Town of Miami Lakes & surrounding areas dad said he could work as long as he uses his hands. Molina landed a job at a frame shop in Miami-Dade. He started out by throwing out the trash but later learned the trade of framing and commenced framing pictures. He was so successful at an early age that he was tapped to run the front gallery and frame shop of the business. When he turned 18, he opened frame shops and galleries for other people before launching his own mobile picture framing business in which he decorated homes and businesses. Molina opened up a permanent business in Cutler Ridge, where he did art distribution for other frame shops as well. “It went very well,” he said. “It was very successful” But then tragedy struck. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew destroyed his business and Homestead home. He lost everything. Molina said he was rebuilding his business and he did such a “great job” that Park West offered to buy his business and make it part of the largest arts dealer in 1999. Molina jumped on board and became president of the company. “It’s great being part of this organization,” he said. ® Molina said he can relate to his employees’ skills in manufacturing and framing because he performed the same tasks when he got started in the business. 72 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Park West , Miami Lakes ® “Everything you see here with framing, I have done it,” Molina said as he gave a tour of the gallery’s warehouse and manufacturing facility. in Miami-Dade County. His father, Albert Molina Sr., was the first Spanish-speaking police officer in the county. Besides art, Molina gives back to the community by being part of America’s Orchestral Academy and an organization that provides humanitarian services to poor and homeless men and woman. Albert Molina Sr. was a squad captain and he was put in charge of the visits of three U.S. presidents, including John F. Kennedy. He’s currently an executive board member of the new world Symphony and Camillus House. “I’m proud to serve on both boards from the aspect of humanity and cultural,” Molina said. Molina is also proud of his Spanish heritage, which has some deep roots In fact, he was with Kennedy in Miami three days before he was assassinated in Dallas. “I owe a lot to my father for the success I have,” Molina said. “His wisdom I still carry with me today.” January, 2008 Couple gives $25,000 grant to Pontiac shelter By Diana Dillaber Murray Of The Oakland Press Grace Centers of Hope has been given a $25,000 grant to help men kick drugs and alcohol and get a new start on life. change could make the difference between recovery or relapse, center officials said. Park West Gallery® Chief Executive Officer Albert Scaglione and his wife, Mitsie, of Farmington Hills provided the gift to help Grace Centers separate quarters for the men who are in the center's one-year rehabilitation program from other homeless men taking emergency shelter at the center who may not be working toward recovery. For the men trying to turn their lives around, the separated dorm is a drugfree, safe haven from life on the streets, Atwood said. The Scagliones' contribution is the largest in the center's $75,000 campaign to renovate the men's dorm at Grace Centers of Hope, Oakland County's oldest and largest homeless shelter, said Michelle Atwood, director of development. Park West Gallery is based in Southfield and conducts art auctions in the United States and Canada, as well as aboard cruise ships through-out the world, according to its Web site. ® "It is a place where the men come together and share their histories that sometimes include parents who drank heavily or abused drugs. Many have spent time in prison and have children they haven't seen in years," she said. "These men draw strength from each other and become family to one another". Renovations also will allow the center to recruit more men into the one-year program. Contact staff writer Diana Dillaber Murray at (248) 745-4638 or [email protected]. "It is a privilege to share what the Lord has given me with those who are trying to better their lives through this wonderful program," said Albert Scaglione, who, after earning a mechanical engineering degree from the New Jersey Institute of Technology changed careers and became one of the nation's most prominent art dealers. "We are so excited to receive such a wonderful gift,” said Pastor Kent Clark, chief executive officer of Grace Centers. "The men in our program are often overlooked, and this will certainly help them to feel cared for. "Not only that, but I'm so thankful and appreciative to the Scagliones and their confidence in the work being done at Grace Centers of Hope,” he said. The first phase of work on the dorm is to be completed by the end of March. More donations are needed for a second phase of renovations and a final phase that will provide five more bedrooms on the third floor. Each year, the religious-based center on Huron and Perry streets near downtown Pontiac provides shelter through its emergency shelter program and one-year life skills program, Atwood said. The problem is that men in both programs are sharing the same dorm. By separating the dorm into two distinct living areas, a more suitable environment is created for those in the rehabilitation program—and the Park West Gallery® CEO Albert Scaglione and his wife, Mitsie, have donated to Grace Centers of Hope. For more information or to make a donation, please call (248) 334-2187 Ext. 35 or e-mail [email protected]. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 73 January, 2008 Featured Story The Art of Community Building By Amy Whitesall metromode Albert Scaglione grew up in Nutley, New Jersey, a good Italian boy who knew how to work. When he was eight he began tagging along on weekends with his father, who drove a truck and hauled industrial waste. He spent his Saturdays slinging bricks, hunks of metal, chunks of plaster and sundry junk into the back of his father's truck. He'd pull a nylon stocking over his head to filter the dust and use a pickax to break slabs of plaster into manageable chunks. It was dirty, physical work, but he was good at it, and eventually so reliable that his father could go grab a cup of coffee while Albert filled the truck. When he was 16, Albert's mother decided he'd had enough of the garbage business. She arranged a summer job with a cousin, Paul Borghi, who owned an art gallery. Albert went to work for his cousin, stretching and varnishing canvases, framing artwork and hanging it on the walls. "My hands were clean; I didn't have to wear a nylon stocking over my head," said Scaglione, now 68. "The smell of varnish is still lovely to me." Scaglione is founder and CEO of Park West Gallery , a Southfield-based art gallery with 1.2 million customers around the world. The gallery has a massive second location in Miami Lakes, FL and sells artwork on cruise ships. ® Together with his wife, Mitsie, Scaglione has built the gallery into something uncommon in the art world - a place where collectors and curious consumers alike can appreciate, learn about and buy fine art. And as the gallery has thrived, the Scagliones have shared their 74 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® success with community. the Giving back They open the elegant, 63,000 square-foot Southfield gallery to any 501c3 charity that wants to use it for a fundraising event. At least once a month the gallery lends its space rent-free, donates catering services, cash and art for auction so the charity can come away with pure profit. Proceeds can top $100,000. Scaglione likes to think of it as a place in the community where the answer is, "Yes." "They were so generous and so kind to our coalition," said Peggy Burkhardt, marketing and public relations director for of the Donate Life Coalition of Michigan, which raised an average of $30,000 at each of four fundraisers at Park West . "I'd go so far as to say a lot of the reason we still exist is the generosity of Albert and Mitsie. That's our major fundraiser, and we created it at Park West … I will always Peggy Burkhardt remember what photo by Marvin Shaouni ® ® Big Jam Theory, 2005, Marcus Glenn - Park West Gallery®, they did for us. When we really needed somebody to take chance on us, they did." Their commitment is more than checkbook-deep. Moved by their faith and by the stories of young girls struggling to survive after aging out of the foster care system at 18, the Scagliones started the Park West Gallery Foundation . Through the foundation and their church, Tree of Life Bible Fellowship, they've become the surrogate grandparents to more than 30 teenage girls. "Their girls" call them at all hours of the day and night, celebrate holidays with them, go on trips, ask them for advice. ® "They really just treat them like any grandparents would," said Kevin Sendi, executive vice president for operations at New Oakland Face to Face , a mental health program that has donated care to some of the girls. "I think the relationship really helps strengthen (the girls') self esteem. They know someone out there that really cares, and it makes them more motivated to accomplish things. If Albert and Mitsie weren't around ® January, 2008 / cont. Albert Scaglione, photo by Marvin Shaouni that's 30-40 girls who would probably be doing drugs, on the street, prostituting themselves or doing whatever they could to make ends meet." The Scagliones would like to see the foundation grow into a vast network of mentors and supporters. There's no shortage of people who need that kind of help, Albert Scaglione says, and no reason to expect government or social agencies to solve all of society's problems. But in 1968 the space program dropped the project and Scaglione realized that the government had no use for his expertise beyond weapons research. "Even when you do an excellent job parenting in a two-parent home, you can't send them off at 18 with all their belongings in a garbage bag and expect them to survive," said author and longtime Detroit sportscaster Eli Zaret, who's negotiating with one local television station to air a five-part series on foster care age-out and the Scagliones' efforts. "It's easy to make out a check if you have money, but giving the gift of yourself and your time, your interest and availability - that's the greatest gift of all." His heart wasn't in it, so after an agonizing year he left and started an art gallery. A different perspective Much as he enjoyed working in his cousin's gallery, young Albert went on to study engineering, eventually specializing in magnetohydrodynamics - a discipline that involves the dynamics of electrically conducting fluids. In the late 1960s he taught at Wayne State University while working with NASA to create materials to protect astronauts from the extreme atmosphere of Mars. It was different from the beginning - high quality, meticulously collected artwork without the intimidating high-mindedness galleries can foster. Individual pieces still start at less than $100 (though they range to almost $1million). The movement toward conceptual art, says gallery director Morris Shapiro, has nudged visual art out of our everyday experience. Park West tries to bring it back The gallery's collections include works by Rembrandt and Picasso, pioneering kinetic artist Yaacov Agam, and Bugs Bunny creator Chuck Jones. ® "People go to a museum and they're confronted with a pile of bricks, a dirty ashtray, a shark in formaldehyde," said Shapiro. "And they feel let down because nothings enriching to them. We're trying to pull the pendulum back and reintroduce art into people's lives. One of the most basic needs of human beings is to find meaning in marks on paper." Scaglione opened his first gallery in 1970 in a 20 x 60 storefront on Nine Mile Rd. He advertised his weekly auctions with a big sign on a trailer parked out front, and took the auctions on the road, too - first to Toledo and Flint, and eventually as far as Florida and Texas. He absorbed everything he could about art history and cultivated relationships with artists who impressed him, then used everything he knew to make his auctions informative and fun. People not only bought art, they came back - sometimes they'd apologize for missing a week. Park West's auctions haven't changed much ® Park West Gallery®, photo by Marvin Shaouni © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 75 January, 2008 / cont. Behind the gallery's crisp white walls work more than 150 of their reasons for staying. Park West® employees catalog artwork, take customer service calls, work with artists, train new staff. Many have been with the gallery 20 years or more. "If you're looking at it as all numbers you could probably say there are a lot of reasons to leave, but it isn't all numbers," Scaglione said. "The company is nothing but people. If you move the company you've got to move all the people, and they wouldn't all go." Scaglione also doesn't buy bleak southeast Michigan economic outlook a lot of people sell. He points to an infrastructure built to support a bigger population, and to the concentration of universities, and the diverse and educated group of people they attract. Albert Scaglione, Park West Gallery® CEO and Morry Shapiro, Park West Gallery Director®, photo by Gary Mondshine in that regard, though now the gallery has about 300 intensively trained salespeople and auctioneers who continue the legacy. Scaglione cultivates an atmosphere of unwavering customer service. Salespeople typically spend 5-6 months in training and before they're allowed to actually sell anything. Scaglione brings artists and customers together whenever he can to give his customers the best possible buying experience. Staying put The Scagliones travel extensively and have family around the country, but they live a mile from the gallery. Despite the logistical temptation to run the whole operation from Florida, they're committed to staying in Michigan. Park West won't reveal specific sales numbers, but Shapiro says the gallery grossed nine digits last year and sold hundreds of thousands of pieces of art. ® "With 1.2 million customers can you satisfy everyone?" Scaglione asks. "We're going to try." Morris Shapiro, Park West Gallery Director®, photo by Marvin Shaouni © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Every month Scaglione hosts artists and buyers from all over the world and shows them the best of metro Detroit while they're in town. They stay at the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham, visit the Detroit Zoo, cruise the Detroit River on Detroit Princess Riverboat and dine in the best downtown restaurants. "Have we been tempted? Sure," Scaglione said. "But we have great friends here; we have a great community. If you've been successful, it's a good place to stay and give something back." "One of the things we like to do is slow down the selling process," Scaglione said. "I really like the cruises because they give people 7-10 days or even 3-4 days. That's plenty of time to make a better and more informed decision." 76 "The city has its issues, but there's a great spirit here," he said. "I think the work ethic in this city is as good as it gets." November, 2007 Going Once, Going Twice ALBERT SCAGLIONE PASSED UP A PROMISING CAREER AS A ROCKET SCIENTIST, AND INSTEAD CREATED A HIGH-POWERED ART GALLERY AND AUCTION HOUSE THAT GENERATES MORE THAN $100 MILLION IN ANNUAL REVENUE BY MINEHAHA FORMAN Under a coffered ceiling, striding between illuminated walls adorned with artistic masterpieces, Albert Scaglione is a man on a mission. It's a sunny day outside and he's making sure it stays that way, even indoors, greeting everyone by name as he passes with a welcome smile and a brisk nod. The former truck driver, ROTC reservist, professor, astrophysicist, and now prominent owner of Park West Gallery® in Southfield stops just short of the exit to shake hands with a prominent collector, before leading an intricate tour of the gallery. At first, it's hard to concentrate on the tour itself, with artistic works of the same caliber as major museums passing by. It's easy to forget the Detroit Institute of Art’s summer absence, but the black-andwhite price tags placed next to each piece are the giveaway: $10,000 here, $67,000 there, and a $1 million Renoir down the hall—this is no museum. Today, Park West Gallery® is a national company with annual revenue of more than $100 million, over a million clients, and one of the world's largest art collections. The glowing walls and inconspicuous storage facilities contain thousands of paintings, rare lithographs, and renowned photography. At Park West®, living artists are strongly represented, with modern masterpieces of Yaacov Again on display, as well as old masters. Among Park West's® many treasures are more than 2,000 signed Picassos, the last Rockwell lithographs, and one of the largest Dalí collections in the world. In addition to its Southfield headquarters, Park West® has facilities nationwide, with a south Florida framing factory that's roughly the size of six football fields, a large storage facility in Wixom, MI., and a new gallery opening in Miami. Their art is even available at sea. Scaglione has made his affiliate company, Park West® At Sea, a major draw among cruise lines allowing for international distribution of the artwork in IN THE LABORATORY For every piece of art Albert Scaglione sells, his reputation is on the line. A fake or forgery would undermine client trust. 60 countries. Park West® also hosts auctions at hotels such as the Radisson, the Marriott, and locally at the Townsend Hotel in downtown Birmingham. And they often treat their loyal customers to several days in a variety of cities throughout the world. Recently, they hosted several out-of-town couples at the Townsend to meet with the artists whose works they've purchased. Of course, Park West's® art is also sold off the gallery floor. “This is more of a showroom than a gallery,” Scaglione says. “We [hold auctions] where people ordinarily go, and introduce art in a normal environment; that's what w orks.” What also works is the tried-and-true practice of offering an incentive Park West® doesn't charge for its frames. It's “not a profit center for us,” Scaglione explains. It also helps that Park West® stocks 7 million to 10 million feet of molding, and purchases millions more per year at wholesale prices-an economy of scale that allows the company to absorb the framing costs. A visible, high-profile marketing plan helps, too. In addition to a standalone gallery, Park West® has hosted auctions in a wide variety of places since the beginning, some more modest than others, including the Knob in the Woods apartments, meetings of the Women's American Organization, and the Detroit Zoo. In essence, Park West® makes fine art accessible to a cross-section of society that might never have been reached otherwise. As the tour progresses, it's apparent that Park West® is more than a showroom. Rather, the company © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 77 November, 2007 / cont. Art Auctions: A Primer is a multifaceted operation with considerations of culture and community embedded foremost in the design. For example, the gallery's rear entrance abuts three acres of public gardens that frame a large, central pond - a lush landscape designed to accommodate both introspective clients and major artist receptions. Additionally, tucked within the Greco-Roman-inspired building are fully established facilities in fine-art storage, framing, restoration, research digital catalog printing, and customer service, along with the company's executive offices. After showing off a treasure trove of new arrivals including some of the last Rockwell lithographs acquired from the late artist's family and rare photographs of international legends like Muhammad Ali and the Beatles - Scaglione, 68, checks in with his wife and partner, Mitsie Scaglione. “This is where everyone goes for a sugar fix,” Albert says. Mitsie, who oversees global licensing, confirms that, indeed, the basket of candy perched at the corner of her desk has already been refilled twice today. Even though Scaglione runs a national business, his strong sense of family still shines through. He's made Park West® a family affair, with his children presiding over major operations in everything from human resources to overseeing the Miami facilities. Their father's passion for his work drew them into the business. “I don't think they had a choice,” Scaglione quips. Indeed, Scaglione's bountiful energy - a power walker would struggle to keep pace with his stride - is hard to pin down. Leading the way through storage rooms stacked floor-to-ceiling with expensive prints, he opens the door to the restoration and creative wing, where the smell of fresh paint fills the air. It's a scent that, years ago, enchanted the 16-year-old Scaglione during a summer job in his cousin Paul's art gallery. And it's stayed with him. “The smell of varnish,” he says “still gets to me.” But Scaglione didn't quite follow his nose from the beginning. In fact, he spent a big part of his life involved in a highly eclectic series of professions. He admits it took him almost 30 years to realize it was the art world - not rocket science or truck driving that captivated his heart. As a boy, he was expected to help around the house doing chores with his mother. Every day, his truckdriving father would look at him before going to work and say, “One day, I'm gonna get you outta here, kid.” That day finally came on a Saturday, when Scaglione 78 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® was 8 years old. His father took him out on his truck to collect industrial waste, By the time he was 16 years old, young Albert was driving trucks on his own. But he wasn't stuck behind the wheel for long. His mother saw early on that his abilities far surpassed the labor of a trucker. She encouraged him to spend a summer working at a cousin's art gallery, where he could intellectually expand his horizons and possibly his career options. At first, Albert found the gallery work a welcome break from driving the family trucks. Before long, he was stretching frames and cleaning prints, deeply immersed in the scents of paint and varnish. “I was busy enough,” Scaglione recalls, “always smelling the varnish and seeing the art, looking at the paintings and thinking, ‘People really do this?’ I was fascinated by it.” It was there that Scaglione got his first look into the magnificent world of fine art. Following that summer, he returned to his father's trucking business before enrolling at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, where he earned a mechanical engineering degree. He graduated and moved to Michigan in 1962, where he attained his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, with a specialty in aerospace sciences, from Michigan State University. In 1967, he joined Wayne State University as an assistant professor in the engineering science department - he was the proverbial rocket scientist. During that time, he published research articles in scholarly journals and worked under the direction of NASA scientists to engineer a plan to put a man on Mars. Scaglione and his peers ran into a heat and control problem early on, especially when the planned rocket entered Mars' atmosphere. Finding a solution became the basis of his research. But with the precarious undercurrent of social tension in the late 1960s, and The art market resembles the stock market - buy low and sell high. The art market moves fast, too, so be prepared to move with it. Make sure to research every item before making a purchase, and study the trends. Below are three highly prized paintings. 1 2 3 The late Andy Warhol is one of the more successful modern painters who have enjoyed significant price appreciation. His Orange Marilyn from 1962 sold for $2.8 million in 1998 at Christie's New York. Last year, at the same auction house, the work went for $16.3 million. The reason: Modern pop culture, fueled by a media frenzy, keeps artists like Warhol in the public eye. A master like Vincent van Gogh never seems to go out of style, especially with such memorable works like The Starry Night and Sunflowers. Even a pair of worn shoes can fetch a hefty sum. In 1999, van Gogh's A Pair of Shoes commanded $4.8 million at an auction at Christie's London. Late last year, the painting was sold at auction at Sotheby's New York for $9 million. Pablo Picasso created the Cubist movement, and he was well-compensated for it during his life time. But even in the afterlife, he can draw premium prices. For example, Picasso's Femme Couchee a la Meche Blonde sold for $4.6 million in 1994 at Christie's New York. A decade later, the painting drew a winning bid of $9.3 million at Sotheby's London. -Oteana Mirzoyan November, 2007 / cont. always willing to be a partner.” with the riots in Detroit and Los Angeles and the quagmire in Vietnam, the government slashed funding for deep-space travel, a devastating blow to Scaglione's profession. Soon, he would have to explore alternate career routes. Because of their unmatched research and close relationships with art authorities, Park West® has never had to issue a refund based on authenticity. Within a decade of opening his gallery, Scaglione had formed relationships with the likes of Peter Max, Yaacov Agam, Victory Vasarely, and M.C. Escher. Knowing that the only research contracts available to him involved top-secret operations run by the military, he paused. Rocket scientists at the time were being asked to get involved in the Cold War by researching the best ways to attach ever-more-powerful warheads inside everfaster missiles. “I came to the conclusion it's not where I wanted my life to be,” Scaglione recalls. “I didn't enjoy it. I'd come to work in the morning thinking, ‘Well, one of the things I'm gonna do today is blow up Moscow.’ The space program was dead as a doornail.” Then, that summer of his 16th year came back to him. “I started thinking about the smell of the oil paint, how good it was,” he recalls. But aside from good memories, he didn't have much to start with. “I had all the naive confidence of youth,” he says. “No money, I knew nothing [about art] ... not a problem. I told my wife, ‘Don't worry, we'll eat.’” So in 1969, using the little money he'd saved from his short-lived university career, he opened a modest art gallery in Southfield and called it Park West®. At first, Park West® was a one-man business, with Scaglione as sole proprietor. But within three years, 14 more people joined the team. Today, nearly 40 years later, Park West® employs more than 1,000 people nationwide. Opening a side door, Scaglione leads the way into a modest, nondescript room with an elevator. At first blush, it looks like a storage nook for old prints. It's not until Scaglione leans down and flips the pages over that the treasure is revealed. In a stack against the wall piled almost a foot high are another set of lithographs created by Norman Rockwell. Scaglione explains he found this particular set of the master's works in a storage room of a company Park West® bought out years ago. Look for those to be sold in the coming months. Scaglione's penchant for success stems from the beginning, when his strong commitment to scientific research helped set his gallery above the rest. He also forged lifelong connections with key players in the art world. “His enthusiasm is infectious,” says Clark Durant, CEO of Cornerstone Schools in Detroit, who worked with Scaglione to plan a baseball charity event at Comerica Park in August that raised money for children. “He's While Scaglione was teaching at Wayne State, he relied heavily on his knack for entertaining to lighten the load of often intimidating lectures. “If I didn't get at least some laughter during a 50-minute lecture, there was something wrong,” he says. To make sure people pay attention to him as an art dealer, he employs a similar method. “One of the first ways I found to be entertaining - and I still do this in the art world - is know your material,” he says. “I never referred to notes or books; it went from my head to the blackboard. When you know what you're doing, it's gonna look effortless.” Art on the High Seas Gallery's® Thanks to Park West affiliate company, Park West® At Sea, people can come home from a cruise with more than a colorful T-shirt, perfume, or tan. Whether you return as the proud owner of a Dalí, Picasso, or Goya, there's an advantage to buying art in international waters: no taxes or import duties for people who live in the United States. Today, everything from fine-art prints to sculptures and even signed sports memorabilia are taking to the high seas and getting the attention of international shoppers. Park West® At Sea, was one of the first companies to board the marine auctions venture. "The business started in the late 1980s and early 1990s," says Park West® founder Albert Scaglione. "We entered in 1993, and today we're pretty much the top seller." Cruise vacationers can experience the excitement of participating in or just watching a competitive art auction on board. The auctions are free to attend and easy to get involved in. Just show up, register your name and cabin number to receive a bid card, and start bidding. If you just want to peruse the masters on display and take pictures of them, you're welcome to do that, too. If you do buy a piece, it'll be shipped to your house, so you won't have to worry about dealing with additional luggage. -Minehaha Forman True to Scaglione's entertaining character, he uses his promotional wiles, as well as his intrinsic gift of hospitality, to develop markets for artists who are now major players in the art world. One of these occasions was in 1974, when he organized an exhibition to Europe for more than 20 people. The purpose: to visit the old stomping grounds of the late graphic artist M.C. Escher. Scaglione recounts the experience in Amsterdam like it happened yesterday. “I took them to Escher's home, we met his wife ... got to see his art studio,” Scaglione recalls. “We went downtown, and we got locked inside the subway. We had to walk on subway tracks in the dark to get out, I was the leader. I remember Lisa, my [then] 11-year-old daughter, felt like she was climbing the stairway to heaven.” Over the years, Scaglione has treated his VIP clients to luxurious weekend getaways with theater, fine dining, music, and art. “It's purely a cultural happening for these people that they can put in their emotional bank... forever.” Scaglione says. Julius Giarmarco, principal of Troy-based law firm Giarmarco, Mullins & Morton, says Scaglione's success stems from his charm. “When you're with Albert, the attention is on you and the conversation,” Giarmarco says. “He's a literal sponge for information [from] his advisers. He takes it in and listens; he's not looking for ‘yes’ men.” db © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 79 September, 2007 Eccentric SOUTHFIELD Israeli artist's works on display A prismograph by Yaacov Agam. Works by Israeli master kinetic artist Yaacov Agam will be featured at the Jewish National Fund's Tribute & Farewell Dinner, "Soar Into the Hula Valley," on Thursday, Sept. 6, at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, 27375 Bell, in Southfield, Michigan. Guests will have the opportunity to view and buy unique and hand-signed works by Agam. The collection also will be on public exhibition through Sept. 5 at Park West Gallery, 29649 Northwestern in Southfield. Yaacov Agam. Dinner proceeds will benefit a new visitor's center in the Hula Valley, located in northern Israel, restoring economic development to the area. Dinner Chairs Jim and Marge Hiller will honor Hannan and Lisa Lis, Bruce Israel and Lisa Pernick and Col. Kami & Vardina Robinson for their professional and philanthropic contributions to the fund and to the community. Ambassador Dore Gold, president of the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs, will be the keynote speaker. The event will begin with a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by the dinner and program at 7:30 p.m. Attire is black-tie optional. 80 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® August, 2007 SU N Southfield Art in the City SOUTHFIELD - It's a gem many might overlook in a bustling city packed with residences and office buildings. The Park West Gallery , well-known for running art auctions on cruise lines, is a 63,000 square-foot find in the city of Southfield. ® The gallery was started in 1969 in a 20-by-60-foot storefront at Nine Mile and Telegraph by Albert Scaglione, a former rocket science professor at Wayne State University and researcher who got out of the space business when the government cut funding for NASA. afternoons. By '73, I went all the way to Japan." He outgrew the original gallery in three years and in 1972 moved to a bigger facility on Telegraph before building his own space, on the three and a half acres where the gallery is now located on Northwestern Highway, in 1980. Scaglione said he expanded to art auctions on cruise lines in the 1990s after people from the cruise industry requested he work with them. Now, he said, even with his large facility in Southfield, most of his work takes place internationally. "Our core business is to create art auctions all over the world," he said. "The vast majority of the sales are made through auctions we conduct all over the world." The gallery owns hundreds of thousands of pieces of art for sale and in extensive archives. It works with artists all over the world and has pieces from classical artists such as Auguste Renoir and Pablo Picasso to sports memorabilia and Disney, to local artists such as Marcus Glenn from Southfield. Gallery Director Morris Shapiro said Park West gives visitors an even greater experience than they can get at art museums because they have the opportunity for the art to become part of their lives. ® Park West Gallery® is located on Northwestern, north of 12 Mile Rd., in Southfield. "For me, it's like home is where the heart is," he said, explaining why he chose to open his facility in Southfield. Although he's originally from New Jersey, he and his wife bought a home near Southfield and loved the area. When his research project trying to get a man on Mars was not renewed, and the only work left was on nuclear warheads, he got out and decided to get into art like some of his relatives in Italy. "I could get artists … that wanted to work with me," he said. "I started running auctions on Sunday "When you have the opportunity to collect … and you can actually own those works, it's very exciting for people," he said. He said art galleries are typically thought of as stuffy places, but they work to change that perception. "We really want people to feel very comfortable," he said. "We're trying to get art into more people's lives." Scaglione said it's very important to him that buyers make educated choices when selecting something that could become a family heirloom. Albert Scaglione, the owner of Park West Gallery®, stands in front of an acrylic on canvas painting by Alfred Gockel, “National Anthem,” 2006. Everything at the gallery is for sale, and prices range from a $200 framed work to a $500,000 Renoir. "We have a lot of works of art (in the) $200 to $3,000 range," Shapiro said. "Art doesn't have to be expensive." At any one time, works from 60 to 100 artists are on display, and the collection changes once a month. Right now, Park West is featuring the German Renaissance artist Albrecht Durer and Pablo Picasso. ® In addition to the changing exhibits inside, the gallery also displays between 20 and 30 pieces in a lighted exhibit viewable 24 hours a day through the windows in the front of the gallery. Plus, a former retention pond in the rear of the building has been turned into a sparkling pond complete with a fountain, surrounded by a garden-lined walkway that winds its way down the hill behind the gallery with willows blowing in the breeze. The park-like setting also displays sculptures by Grediaga Antonio Kieff and Yaacov Agam, owned by the gallery. "Our mantra, from early on, was to make art accessible to people," Scaglione said. "Our stuff is not repetitive." Park West Gallery is located at 29469 Northwestern in Southfield, just north of 12 Mile Road. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call (248) 354-2343, toll free (800) 5219654 or log on to www.parkwestgallery.com. ® "We recruit and train people from all over the world," Scaglione said of his 200-plus sales staff. "We want them to come in here and get thoroughly familiar with all of the art. We want perfection." © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 81 August 16, 2007 Famous artist steps in to aid Cornerstone By Bob St. John Grosse Pointe News World renowned artist Peter Max recently stepped up to the easel to help Cornerstone Schools. Often cited as a Pop Icon, Neo Fauvist, Abstract Expressionist and "American's Painter Laureate," Max has created a poster to commemorate the upcoming Cornerstone Schools fundraiser. His previous works included five Grammy Award posters and designation as the official artist for five Super Bowls, the World Cup USA, the U.S. Tennis Open, the Winter Olympics and the NHL AllStar Game. He also painted a Boeing 777 super jet for Continental Airlines and a 600-foot wide stage backdrop for the Woodstock '99 Music Festival. Max was at Yankee Stadium earlier this week, presenting third baseman Alex Rodriguez with a portrait after he hit his 500th career home run. "Thank God I'm able to do this for Cornerstone Schools," Max said during an interview on the Paul W. Smith show on WJR, "Cornerstone Schools is doing a great thing and I'm happy to create this baseball poster for its benefit." Max finished the poster Tuesday, Aug. 14, and sent it to the printer. He will autograph each copy and include drawing a heart on the poster with the buyer's initials inside the heart as a keepsake. People can get a poster if they buy or sell 20 or more ticket packages of $99 or more for the Tuesday, Aug. 21, Detroit Tigers game against the Cleveland Indians. "It will be ready in December just in time for the holidays," Smith said of the poster. "The game is going to be great and this Peter Max poster adds a little more to it." After the interview, Smith, a Grosse Pointe resident, announced he was buying 20 tickets so he could get the Max poster, signed and inscribed. 82 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® © Peter Max 2008 Artist Peter Max One hundred percent of the contributions will go toward scholarships for kids at the Cornerstone Schools. Meijer savings card, and chance to win a 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2000 Chevrolet Corvette, or World Series tickets. Its CEO and founding chairman, Grosse Pointe Farms resident Clark Durant, said, "It's wonderful that Peter Max is getting involved to help Cornerstone Schools raise money for scholarships. "The best benefits are now with the $99 contribution and the benefits are fabulous for helping the kids." Durant said he is optimistic that the community will come to the game to help these children receive an excellent education, "I am grateful to Comerica, DTE, Big Boy, Meijer, Pepsi, Chevrolet, Andiamo's, the DSO, and so many others for stepping up to help and for Park West Gallery for inviting Peter Max to participate," Durant said, "What a gift to the community." Everyone who contributes $99 by calling (248) 354-2343 ext. 3 gets an event T-shirt, two-for-one dinner at any Andiamo restaurant, a two-for-one Detroit Symphony Orchestra ticket voucher, a $300 For additional information, visit BeATigerForKids.com, contact Karissa Williams at Cornerstone Schools at (313) 892-1860 ext. 265, or call (248) 354-2343 ext. 3. July 19, 2007 Taking art to the people From Michigan to the World 1980. He grew the business steadily, forging relationshipswith contemporary artists Peter Max, Itzchak Tarkay and others who occasionally appear at Park West for special exhibitions. By 1994, Park West's annual revenue had grown to $20 million, but then sales really exploded with the surging popularity of art auctions on major cruise lines. Park West is the dominant player today in cruise line art auctions. Employment has grown from 150 people in the early 1990s to 1,000 today, about half full-time Park West people and the rest contractors such as artists and cruise line auctioneers. Albert Scaglione, 68, of Farmington Hills is seen outside his Park West Gallery® in Southfield on Friday. He founded the business in 1969. Photo by AMY LEANG/Detroit Free Press By Tom Walsh Detroit Free Press A fine piece of art is whatever the purchasing public says it is, whether a Picasso print, a Peter Max painting or a big photo of Muhammad Ali signed by the former boxing champ. It's in that populist spirit that Albert Scaglione has grown Park West Gallery from a small Southfield art dealer into a global juggernaut with 1,000 employees and contractors who conduct art auctions on land and cruise ships. "We're making money all over the world and bringing it to Detroit," Scaglione told me last week, walking through his 63,000-square-foot Southfield gallery as a private auction was being held. Doing the bidding were some of Scaglione's best customers, 30 couples whom Park West had brought to town, put up at Birmingham's Townsend Hotel for four nights and treated to a Detroit River cruise plus dinners in Greektown and at the Detroit Zoo. Next up: a TV infomercial, tentatively dubbed "Park West Presents," that may air later this year on cable or satellite TV channels. Scaglione, 68, founded Park West in 1969 in smaller digs on 9 Mile and moved to the current location on Northwestern Highway in Park West's aggressive marketing of art to the public has rocked the boat in the fine art world, once the province of the super-rich and museum curators. The days are long gone, his Web site says, when proclamations about the worthiness of art were handed down by churches, kings, museums, curators or critics. The digital age of computers has allowed an informed public to drive changes in art forms. That said, Scaglione noted it is important that Park West, like any art dealer or auctioneer, maintain its integrity in a business where scandals often erupt over fakes. Continued on next page © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 83 July 19, 2007 / cont. Taking Art to the People Continued "We've never had to make a single refund based on authenticity," he said. Scaglione said he was hesitant at first to jump into the cruise auction business because of concern about Park West's reputation. "I was skeptical. I thought it looked to be too unregulated, too odd, not a serious art market," he said. And he figured that vacationers at sea would be unlikely to make major purchases. He was wrong. The business took off. "I never imagined individual items selling for as much $500,000," he said. "Now we regularly sell items for over $10,000, $50,000 and even $100,000." Park West has national brand recognition now, he said, thanks to its exposure to tens of thousands of vacationers on cruise ships. A Park West auctioneer presents framed pieces by Rembrandt to clients on Friday. The gallery also does auctions on cruise ships and at resorts. Photo by AMY LEANG/Detroit Free Press Scaglione, who lives with wife Mitsie in Farmington Hills, could locate Park West anyplace in the world now. But he's not going anywhere. "I see Detroit as full of opportunity," he said. "When I bring customers and artists here, they can't believe our city. It's on a beautiful river next to a foreign country. We have one of the most beautiful suburban areas in the country. We have a great art museum." He would go on and on, Scaglione the supersalesman, if he didn't consciously make an effort to stop himself. "I talk too fast," he said, "so I try to slow down, talk more softly." People participate in a private auction at the gallery. 84 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Photo by AMY LEANG/Detroit Free Press June, 2006 / June, 2005 2006 Best Place to Buy Original Art Park West Gallery 2005 Best Place to Buy Original Art Park West Gallery © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 85 June 17, 2004 Painted Rock: Bon Jovi member drums up interest in his paintings Tico Torres clutches a cup of coffee with his left hand and moves his right in big circular motions on the canvas of his finished painting. "Come on," Torres says. "Touch it. It's just paint, don't be afraid to feel it. You should feel it with your eyes and hands." Torres continues moving his hand along the vivid acrylic colors of blue, red and gold that he created. Then he takes a step back and scans the gigantic Park West Gallery® in Southfield. "This space is incredible, it feels good," the 50-year-old Bon Jovi drummer says. Torres was in town recently for the opening of the exhibit, The Art of Rock n' Rolling, which runs through July 7. His paintings and ceramics are the rock; Harley-Davidson painter Scott Jacobs is the roll. The two artists from New Jersey are longtime acquaintances and have wanted to showcase their work together for years. The Park West® exhibit is their first and both said they eventually will create a piece together. Bon Jovi has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide, yet many fans don't realize Torres is an accomplished painter. "I get better reviews for my paintings than my music," he says. Born to Cuban parents, Torres spent years in Varadero, Cuba. The history, sights and sounds of his birth country is the foundation for his creativity. Tico Torres, Bon Jovi drummer, is also a renowned painter. ‘All That Jazz’ is one of the paintings featured in the exhibit. Today, he uses his rock star status to benefit his artistic curiosities. with almost any artist I want. …I can see their work and learn and discuss art." "I'm really lucky," Torres says. "I can use my name to have a cup of coffee or glass of wine RHYTHM AND HUES Torres says his inspiration comes from rich life 86 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® experiences. He recently became a father for the first time. He's suffered a failed marriage and embraced a new one. He travels the world meeting artists - emerging, unknown and accomplished - on every continent. For more June 17, 2004 / cont. than 20 years, he's played with Bon Jovi in soldout concert halls worldwide. He has art exhibits throughout the world. Those experiences are expressed on canvas they're bold, vivid and animated. Torres has a strong, confident style. Walking through Park West®, he talks about the pieces, which in many ways are reminiscent of Edvard Munch and the German Expressionists. Thoughts of the Past portray Cher, a friend of his. Another, Gambling Lady, is a portrayal of how he imagines an elegant casino woman from years past. Another painting pays homage to Picasso, one of Torre's favorite artists. "It's the way I see him," Torres says. Torres is genuinely curious about the world. He'll give personal interpretations of his paintings if asked, but would rather hear the comments from others. "Once it's on canvas, it's not mine anymore. It's for anyone to interpret," he says. "When I paint, I'll usually play classical music, maybe Mozart, and I paint what I'm feeling at that moment. …If it evokes a different emotion on someone else, that's OK." Yet if the paintings reflect his emotions, it's evident that music is more than a career for Torres. On a stage, behind the drum kit, Torres is part of a band, a team in which together they express their creativity through pop rock. As a painter, the originality is his own. It's his soul and he isn't afraid to place it out for viewing. Well maybe a little. "I'm always nervous when my paintings are hung at an exhibit for the first time," says Torres. "But it's a good fear. It's an emotion and that's life." Scott Jacobs' career as an artist has taken interesting turns and has been wildly successful. The San Diego gallery owner received a set of paints from his wife for Christmas years ago and Scott Jacobs is one of Harley-Davidson’s handful of official artist. He is part of an exhibit called ‘The Art of Rock n’ Rollin.’ discovered his love for holding the brush. Soon after, he was painting portraits for celebrities like Malcolm Forbes, super models Kim Alexis and Kathy Ireland, and Joan Lunden. Now Jacobs uses Harley-Davidsons as inspiration. His style is photo-realistic, sometimes mixed with a bit of surreal. Chances are if you've seen a Harley painting, it's one of Jacobs' pieces; he was Harley's first official licensed artist. Jacobs's career is expanding further as he's also painting wines. Reds and whites, glasses and bottles. Both his Harley and wine works can be seen in the two-man exhibit The Art of Rock 'n Rolling at Park West Gallery®. Jacobs, a native of New Jersey, shares the bill with fellow artist and friend Tico Torres, who also happens to be the drummer for Bon Jovi. Jacobs visited Michigan, with Torres, for the exhibit kickoff - their first ever together. Jacobs's works have been featured in VQ Magazine, Art Business News, Easy Rider Magazine and more. HD enthusiasts like Peter Fonda, Lorenzo Lamas and John Elway are collectors of his work. See it before it rolls out of town July 7. "I started painting Harleys because I'm really interested in them and I wanted to paint something with wide appeal," Jacobs said. "Wine is so popular, it's something that would be appealing to hang in a dining room." © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 87 June, 2004 Midnight Hour Staying Alive John Forte and Suszanne Belanger, Heather Blasko and Peggy Burkard, Joan and Joe Stern. St. Clair Specialty Physicians sponsored ALIVE at Park West Gallery® on March 25. Proceeds went to the Donate Life Coalition of Michigan, a group of corporations, non-profits, individuals and hospitals dedicated to saving lives through organ and tissue donor awareness. Jessica Domain & Victoria Ronk, Donna Musto & Barry Rudner 88 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® March, 2004 PLANTATION FORUM Art Auction raises money for kidney disease By Jaime Lynn Deutsch, Forum Staff Writer Imagine Picasso and Salvador Dali helping to raise money for a cause. They are. Well, sort of. For the first time, the Southeast Florida Chapter of the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation is having an art auction fundraiser with Park West Gallery® on March 28 in Plantation. This is the second major fundraiser for the year-old chapter. Sixty-five hundred dollars was raised at their September Walk event. Susan Edwards, Chapter Coordinator of the Southeast Florida Chapter, is not sure how much will be raised at this auction. The open invitation fundraiser will be in the large ballroom of the Renaissance Hotel Fort Lauderdale in Plantation. "We're hoping for a big showing," Edwards said. Barbara Dion has been an auctioneer with Park West® for seven years. More than 600 customframed works of art by famous artists will be featured including paintings, watercolors, mixedmedia works, serigraphs, lithographs, etchings, hand-hammered metal reliefs, animation art and sports collectibles. "We have originals by Picasso, Peter Max, Salvador Dali, Rembrandt, as well as many other popular artists," Dion said. "You'll see things at the auction that are $100 and up, and $10,000 and up." Pablo Picasso, La Corrida, c. 1960, 19'' x 25 3/4''Aquatint in color on wove paper. Signed in pencil and numbered. pressure rises and causes more strain on kidneys and heart. Edwards said it is the most common genetic disease, affecting 12.5 million people around the world. "These monies will be going to research grants to fund research to find a cure for this disease," Edwards said. "I believe the reason that little is known about this is because it's not as obvious on the outside. We walk around and we look normal," she said. "We participate in activities, we go about our daily lives and it is only in the end stages, when the kidneys are so compromised that you have to undergo dialysis or get a kidney transplant, but even then you'd never know that someone is on dialysis nor had a kidney transplant," Edwards said. Currently, the hereditary disease has no cure. If one parent has the disease, there is a 50/50 chance that the off spring will be born with it. Kidneys become enveloped with cysts, and in 60 percent of the cases, there is kidney failure. As kidneys fail, blood People also don't speak about it, she said, because as in any disease, it affects insurance coverage. The current course of treatment is to keep blood pressure low and keep tabs on a healthy diet. She said there is no correlation from generation to genera- All of the artwork is framed and priced at a discount of 40 to 80 percent off gallery cost. Every piece comes with a certificate of authenticity. tion. For example, Edwards received the disease from her mother. Her mother lived until age 83 before having a massive heart attack and kidney failure. However, Edwards, who is in her mid-fifties, will need a kidney transplant within three years. There are people who have kidney failure in their 20s and then there are those who can live until their 80s or beyond and not have any kidney failure, so there are no generational guidelines. The good news: if offspring do not have the disease, it does not skip a generation. At that point, the gene dies and future generations are clear. Admission is $10. The preview begins at 1:30 p.m. Benefit auction begins at 3. The Renaissance Hotel Fort Lauderdale is at 1230 South Pine Island Road, Plantation. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 89 October 23, 2003 Peter Max’s inspire him. meet,” Max said. “When I’m painting, 90 minutes can pass and I don’t know where my mind was...and then I look at the work and I’m just as amazed as anyone about with what I see,” he said. He was also the official artist for the 25th anniversary of the New Orleans Jazz Festival and Olympics and opened the Woodstock ‘94 Festival. © Peter Max 2007 Life intrigues Max, the legendary pop artist who seems tireless in his travels, his creativity and his philosophies. He doesn’t have enough time in the day to do everything he wants. He arrives in Detroit this week to participate in the Michigan Parkinson Foundation’s 20th birthday fund-raiser celebration tonight at Park West Gallery® in Southfield. His paintings will remain on display at the gallery through Nov. 26. Pop artist takes time to help local charity this week The ideas constantly swimming through Peter Max’s mind are endless. Currently, he’s contemplating that the human body has more than 6 million organs that require eight hours of sleep nightly. He’s pondering the mindboggling number of suns in the galaxy - 250 billion. And he’s thinking about the mediums he’s been working with recently. “For the past two months I’ve been drawing,” the pop artist said last week. “But I feel a change coming; soon I’ll probably shift to painting.” He doesn’t know what he will paint or what will 90 Magical mystery tour © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Attending a Parkinson Foundation fund-raiser is new for Max. The artist is dedicated to environmental and animal rights causes, but found space in his heart, and busy schedule, for this event. Max donated two pieces of work to auction there. At press time, he still wasn’t certain which pieces they would be. “Probably something patriotic,” Max said, such as his U.S. flag or Lady Liberty works. Born in China and living in New York, Max celebrates the U.S. constantly in his works. After 9/11 he painted portraits of the firefighters killed in the tragedy. Then, knowing the works were valuable, he gave each painting to the surviving families to use however they needed. ACCOMPLISHMENTS “I’m still in awe over the people whom I get to The United Nations asked him to create 12 postage stamps for the first Environmental Summit in 1992. He was named the Official Artist of the Grammy Awards, something he’s been honored with five times. He’s also created numerous works for the White House. Max mixes his art with charity because to him both make the world better. Lately he’s been working with animal rights groups to spread the word about veganism - his biggest cause. For him, there’s a connection between food, creativity and a peaceful life. “To be healthy we have to start with our food,” Max said. “It has to be clean not just for our body, but for our minds. Eating dead animals kills our bodies and our souls...eating plant food is eating life and it feeds our mind...it’s less harmful to our bodies and it’s less taxing on the world’s precious resources...it can make the world better for ourselves and our children.” “We should live in the moment, but still remember to take care of the future.” For Max, visiting Detroit for the charity isn’t work, but rather a vacation. “Everyday is like a holiday for me because I never know what is going to happen, whom I’m going to see or meet or if I can somehow help someone,” he said. “Life amazes me everyday.” September 16, 2003 Art, music make a Dent in funds needed to aid children’s group SOUTHFIELD--Bill Haley, a retiree from the D'Arcy McManus advertising agency, boasted that he was the only one in the room whose portrait had been painted by Denny Dent. Whether that's true or not, 400 people stood in awe as Dent, a well-known performance artist, with three paint brushes in each hand, took to the canvas and created in 15 minutes, an amazing portrait of John Lennon, while moving gracefully to three popular Beatles songs. The event, "Denny Dent and His Two-Fisted Art Attack," was a benefit Friday for the Children's Center at Park West Gallery® in Southfield. Dent painted four portraits to music (a bonus since he was scheduled to paint two). The Lennon portrait was auctioned for $30,000. Guests who paid $150 each to attend the event, were also given an opportunity to enjoy the art throughout the galleries of Park West®, while sampling gourmet dishes from 15 of Metro Detroit's finest restaurants, including Opus One, MacKinnon's and Common Grill. The Children's Center is one of the largest, most diverse child agencies in Michigan, addressing the needs of more than 7,000 children and families annually through 25 interrelated programs. Chuck Bennett is a Metro Detroit free-lance writer and editor of the-real-scoop.com, an online magazine. Reach him at chuckbennett@ hotmail.com. Performance artist Denny Dent after his “Two Fisted Attack” at Park West Gallery®. © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 91 September 16, 2003 / cont. Park West Gallery® hosts the benefit for The Children’s Center. 15 of Metro Detroit’s finest restaurants provided samples of gourmet dishes. Park West Gallery® owners Albert and Mitsie Scaglione and performance artist Denny Dent. Denny Dent paints John Lennon, later auctioned for $30,000. Gallery Director Morris Shapiro conducted the auction. 92 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Performance artist Denny Dent painted four portraits to music to raise funds for the kids. January 16, 2003 By Linda Chomin Artistic Expressions Gallery Showing Like most kids in the late 1960s and early '70s, I grew up loving Peter Max's bold colors and cosmic characters. His art was all part of the culture at that time. The Beatles especially spring to mind when someone mentions Max. He inspired their animated film Yellow Submarine and I'm sure their music inspired his upbeat art that at various times has been labeled pop and neo Fauvist and expressionist. © Peter Max 2008 Max admits fame came too quickly and before long his posters, ties, watches and jeans became a $1.1 billion dollar industry. He found himself spending more time away from his easel. At one time he painted with more than one brush at a time but appearances on the Ed Sullivan Show and photo sessions for the cover of Life magazine drained his artistic spirit. By the early 1970s he'd had enough. Max found jobs for all but six of his 75 employees. Those he took with him into private retreat. For the next 19 years, all he did was paint. Peter Max visits Park West Gallery® in Southfield Thursday, Jan. 23. His one man show features 150 vibrantly colored works. He re-emerged in 1989 with the same vibrant colors and bold lines. When he came to town in 1994 to exhibit at Park West Gallery® in Southfield, I had the opportunity to interview him in person. This time we talked by phone about his latest show opening Thursday, Jan. 23. He's no less in love with his work now, probably even more - as one can tell by the 150 paintings, drawings, collages, serigraphs and mixed media in the show Maximum Max. Park West Gallery® owner Albert Scaglione has pulled out all the stops for this exhibition. It's a compliment to Max, who he's known since both were in their mid-twenties. "Spend a day at my studio and you'll see, look at my floor. I sometimes paint five to 10 hours a day," Max said. LOVE FOR AMERICA Certain themes appear over and over again in the work. It's nothing planned. The paintings and drawings simply happen. Max will tell you a painter's inspiration frequently comes from outside. An assistant might say, "Are we going to do the Statue of Liberty for the Fourth of July?" Painting Lady Liberty is something he's done every Fourth since 1976. Max has a strong love of America, even though he was born in Germany and spent the first 10 years of his life growing up in Shanghai, China, where his father owned a department store specializing in European tailoring. It's a long story, but one Max is only happy to tell. "It was an amazing life of spirituality," he said. "We lived in a Pagoda house set inside a park that was surrounded by Sikh, Chinese and Mongolian monasteries. At four to five in the morning, chanting would begin. I thought every little European boy lived like this. "I learned about America one day when I was 6 years old when I went to work with my father. It started to rain and he started pulling me to walk faster when we passed a pan-handler displaying colorful things. I wanted the books. He said no, so I started to cry. We walked back and he bought all of them. They were full of color. When we arrived at our destination, I found myself with 125 American comic books." Max learned to read English in British kindergarten. Soon Tom Mix and Superman became friends. His sensitivity for a little boy with polio soon earned him another. Max would walk him home from school each day, until one afternoon his mother invited him to see a movie. For the next four years, he watched a film every day. "I became totally knowledgeable about American iconography," Max said. "I started following all the stars like Spencer Tracy, Howdy Doody, Keystone Cops. I loved © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 93 January 16, 2003 / cont. long. I don't say, 'Today I'm going to paint flowers.' I paint without preconceived discipline. I stand in front of the easel. It's almost a holy place, a shrine. I watch my hand move, invent images. Images invent themselves. I just go and I paint. I'm painting what comes out. I let it occur. It's my highest high." © Peter Max 2008 Max compares his painting to playing blues and jazz on keyboards, a recreation he enjoys just for himself. But that's another story, as are the posters he's designed for the Grammy's, Super Bowls and World Cup. Next time you look up in the sky, look for the colorful Boeing 777 wide-body jet he created for Continental Airlines. The Statue of Liberty is one of Peter Max’s favorite themes. He’s painted the subject every Fourth of July since 1976. America for its invention. I feel I'm more American than Americans, even though I came to America at 16. Americans take everything for granted, but they're the most creative, generous. America's given freedom to every race. They're the most inventive. We invented outer space with Buck Rogers 100 years before we even knew it existed." INFLUENCES Those comic books and early years definitely influenced Max's art. Even though he dreamed of becoming an astronomer, his mother's urgings for him to draw won out. Max expects to return from his opening at Park West Gallery® with between 40 to 240 drawings. 94 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 'I became totally knowledgeable about American iconography. I started following all the stars like Spencer Tracy.' Peter Max, artist "I travel a lot to wonderful gallery openings, so I bring mixed media with me like colored pencil," Max said, "I'm drawing in the back of the limousine, at dinner. What I've discovered is the drawing wants to draw itself. It's like going to the park - you don't think about taking one step then another step. As a young artist I would put a line here, a line there. It takes deep practice - practice, practice, practice. You're working and it's automatic. I sometime become a voyeur. I'm into yoga meditation and creativity all day Max is a fascinating man and artist. He proudly tells you when he walks away from the easel he is Peter Max, the animal protection and human rights person, the environmentalist. It would take pages to recount all of his good works and achievement. And his new book, The Art of Peter Max, published by Harry Abrams, does. Most recently he painted portraits of the 356 firefighters killed in the World Trade Center then donated them to their families. Proceeds from a series of six Statue of Liberty prints (on sale on his Web site www. petermax.com) went to several of the funds set up for survivors of the victims. Over the years, Max has donated his serigraphs to PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). Of course who would expect less from a man living with five cats and a German shepherd-lab mix. That's my kind of guy. October 9, 2002 Alumni Magazine | Spring/Summer 2002 ICONS | ALBERT SCAGLIONE CRASHING INTO THE ART WORLD When Albert Scaglione, class of 1962, was thirty years old, he reinvented himself for the love of beauty, truth and an amazing business now worth more than $100 million in annual sales. “In 1969, I saw the specter of nuclear war haunting my work,” says the former aeronautical engineer. “I didn’t want my education to be used for that. I decided I’d rather sell art.” He attributes his subsequent success to the values he learned while at NCE: self-reliance, competition and hard work; and the skills he gained, particularly problem-solving. For Scaglione, that training enabled him to realize that the best solution to his career dilemma was to leave engineering. He laid out a remarkably effective business plan to enter a field renowned for denying financial and professional satisfaction to so many. And in 1969, he crashed unabashedly into the art world with no more experience than a handful of courses, a one-time summer gallery job and some auction experience. His financial resources amounted to a mortgage on his home for ten thousand dollars. Those were the easy steps for the former academic with a doctorate in magnetohydrodynamics. His family life suffered as he frantically opened a gallery, accumulated artists and simultaneously gobbled up hundreds of art history books and artists’ monographs. “At least, the reading matter was dramatically easier than anything I had ever done before,” he says chuckling. Today, although his eye and knowledge are well established, he has intentionally surrounded himself with a wellcredentialed staff. Although self-educated people are common throughout his field and known as autodidacts, art world people sometimes snub them. Scaglione offers, “If I walked into a place and they treated me poorly, I wouldn’t ask a lot of questions. I’d just keep walking around, doing my business.” Deleting the snobbery from buying art is among his key goals. “I don’t think it’s appropriate,” he says. Eventually the tide turned for him as he met more artists and dealers and became an agent for pop art icon Peter Max, who is still a dear friend. Yaacov Agam, the Israeli artist said to be the father of the kinetic art movement, has been among Scaglione’s artworld cronies since then. Today from the entrepreneur’s Southfield, Michigan-based flagship gallery, Park West – he calls it the Mother Ship – he annually sells more than two hundred thousand works. The works range from fine art paintings and original prints to collectible animation cells and sports memorabilia. His galleries and cruise ship auctions showcase the varied offerings. Scaglione also publishes quality art prints by known contemporary artists such as Itzchak Tarkay of Israel. These and other artists operate from production studios based in Paris, Tel Aviv and Detroit that his company operates. As part of the thriving business, Park West is a major collector of Picasso prints. “We own over four hundred of them,” he says. We also own prints by masters like Joan Miro, Marc Chagall, Maurits Escher and Salvador Dali. He recalls buying many of them for under two hundred dollars when he’d dash into Manhattan while at NCE to bid at the venerable former auction house ParkeBernet, which Sotheby’s bought in 1982. It is perhaps fitting, then, that Scaglione surprised a student caller this fall during NJIT’s annual appeal with an extraordinary gift: a portfolio of serigraphs and lithographs valued at several hundred thousand dollars from internationally recognized artists. “No one ever expects a donation like that during a phonathon,” exclaims Judy Goss Boyd, vice president of university advancement. “The timing is perfect” comments President Fenster. “We will have three outstanding new buildings where we can display these works. It’s important for our students to have a direct art experience on campus.” For Scaglione, the point is that in the end, art is hopefully for everyone. “You want to learn about art? Come to one of my cruise ship auctions. You’ll be exposed to a great array of stuff. If that doesn’t stimulate you, I don’t know what will,” he concludes, ever the consummate connoisseur, businessman and NCE alum. —Sheryl Weinstein © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 95 March 1, 2000 Park West owner uses style to expand gallery ® By Maureen McDonald Detroit free-lance writer SOUTHFIELD—Tears stream down Karen Eichbauer's face while she scrutinizes three Peter Max paintings the saleswoman selected for her at Park West Gallery® in Southfield. She fidgets, twists her neck from one work to another, then points excitedly at a picture of two ladies. "Everything Peter Max does is so happy, I've just got to have one more," says the West Bloomfield resident. She pulls out pictures of four of Max's she already owns. "I've bought them all at Park West®. They give us wonderful customer service," Eichbauer said. Her husband, Paul, nods in unison. Soon they will have a photo taken of themselves taken with Max, who flew in that night for an opening reception of his work. Nearly 800 art collectors, students and party lovers clustered at the 40,000-square-foot gallery last week to hear Max talk about his work, ranging from a new Boeing 777 he painted for Continental Airlines to a line of greeting card products sold at Target. Standing by like a proud cousin, gallery owner Albert Scaglione notes that Max is one of the most important artists in America and that Park West® has the largest selection of his prints and paintings. "Look for the red tags on designated prints. We have special incentives to make a fine work available tonight at a price that fits your budget," said Scaglione to the assembled crowd, subtly reminding patrons why they've been invited. 96 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® His aggressive marketing and advertising strategies have set him apart from competitors in this traditionally conservative business. He does radio advertisements with WJR's Paul W. Smith and peppers billboards around the region. The result is quite lucrative. His revenues are beyond $20 million in the privately held firm. Park West® is midway into a $3-million renovation that will add 18,000 square feet of gallery and office space and a redesign that will convert the 1988 modern-looking building to Greek revival. Scaglione commissioned one of his favorite artists and architects, Anatole Krasnyansky, to design the new frontage. "We're a world leader. We sell more original art of all kinds than anyone else in the nation," said Scaglione. He has 300 employees, a facility in Florida and he runs art auctions in hotels across the country and on cruise ships around the world. The former engineering professor got into the gallery business in 1969 with the help of his wife, Mitsie. Three of their children and a son-in-law Park West's® Albert Scaglione, right, and artist Peter Max pause at the gallery. Scaglione has 300 employees, a facility in Florida; he runs auctions nationally and internationally. also work with them. "Art makes people happy. It's not just pictures on a wall. It's a concept, a statement of something an artist is communicating to everyone who looks at the work," Scaglione said. Artists’ shows, range of promotions build world reputation Park West Gallery® What: One of the largest galleries in the nation at 40,000 square feet will expand to 63,000 square feet in late spring and change its exterior from modern to classic Greek. The gallery exhibits internationally known artists such as Peter Max, Itzchak Tarkay, Igor Medvedev and Linda LeKinff. Who: Albert Scaglione, a former engineering professor, sells more than 100,000 pieces of art each year from his gallery, cruise ships and auctions around the country. He tosses monthly openings with artists to stimulate sales. Where: 29469 Northwestern, Southfield, MI. Cost: Pictures range from $100 to $100,000. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday- Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. Contact: (248) 354-2343, Toll Free (800) 521-9654 or http://www.parkwestgallery.com July, 1994 ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST Point of View Founded twenty-five years ago, the success of Park West Galleries® can be traced directly to the relationships and rapport we have built with artists like Peter Max, Tarkay and Yaacov Agam, and the great respect we have for their individual creative processes. Park West Galleries' ® success and excellent reputation stem also from a basic belief upon which the company was established: that art should come to the people. Our auctions are an outgrowth of this philosophy and, while Park West Galleries® owns a 40,000 square foot facility in Michigan with 12 exhibit galleries, three times each year we travel to 100 cities throughout the United States and Canada with more than 400 works for auction. And people don't have to attend our auctions just to buy. They can come to look, to experience the works, to be moved by them. At Park West Galleries®, we value the opportunity to talk with art buyers and non-buyers alike. And on more than one occasion we have found that, months after talking with a non-art buyer, that person has remembered our interest and courtesy and recommended us to a collector who has made a substantial purchase. Certainly, Park West Galleries®, while founded on a true love of art, is a business. To remain financially successful, we need to reach collectors; people educated and appreciative of the creative process, who are inspired by excellence, and who surround themselves with it in every aspect of their lives. Albert Scaglione President & Owner, Park West Galleries® It is through Architectural Digest that we reach just this kind of consumer. In fact, based upon extensive research done prior to the launch of our ad campaign, we determined that Architectural Digest had the best overall demographic of every publication we reviewed - bar none. On a collecting level, Architectural Digest readers are the kind we want to reach. They love art and appreciate its origins. And that makes Architectural Digest an important investment for Park West Galleries.® © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 97 April, 1993 Movers & Shakers A Picture is Worth A Million Words By Maureen McDonald Detroit free-lance writer Fine art on the walls of your business can improve the productivity and creativity of your workers, welcome your clients and win your company prestige in the corporate world, according to Albert Scaglione, proprietor of Park West Gallery® in Southfield. Famous for his advertising that encourages the poster patrons of middle America to enter the sophisticated, upscale art market, Scaglione is always anxious to clear up misconceptions about who can afford original art, and he is always the teacher. The former university professor uses information as well as a heavy dose of charm to sell his art. Twenty-five years ago, Scaglione left positions at Wayne State University and Michigan State University schools of engineering, took out a second mortgage on his house and opened Park West Gallery®. The Southfield gallery has grown from 12,000 to 36,000 square feet, employs 100 people and grossed $10 million in 1992. Corporations accounted for five percent of sales last year. With economic recovery on the way, the aggressive and engaging art dealer wants to double that figure. Scaglione is determined to convince more and more Detroit-area businesses to replace their Grand Prix and Montreaux Jazz festival posters with prints by Harold Altman, Itzchak Tarkay, and Yaacov Agam. Fine art on your walls is good business, Scaglione reasons. He cites the case of a human resources director in the Netherlands who decided that fine art could 98 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® improve factory worker productivity. First he tested pictures by the old Dutch masters, then the French Impressionists and finally vivid abstracts by Karel Appel. The workers voted for the modernist, claiming it made them feel more energetic and upbeat. And of course, fine art quietly says this place has "arrived. We've got style," he adds persuasively. Scaglione calculates a mediumsized company can venture into the fine art arena for $10,000. Included in that price would be eight to 10 "environmentally correct" prints. Albert Scaglione discusses a print with visiting artist Erte. An outstanding art collection can also put a company on the map. For instance, Masco Corporation in Taylor has begun using the Manoogian Collection, put together by the corporation's chairman, in its marketing strategy. This "incomparable collection" of art tours the nation, representing an "outstanding collection of companies" brought together in a "magnificent whole." The collection includes work by Remington, Russell, Cropsey and Cassatt. Ariadne Magoulias, Vice President/Director of public relations for Michigan National Bank's headquarters in Farmington Hills, says the bank has a collection of works by contemporary Michigan artists, including Jack Faxon, Bill Bostick, Shirley Hathaway, and Richard Kozlow. The artwork celebrates Michigan landmarks and creativity. Besides the corporate benefits, Scaglione is pretty persuasive when he talks about the personal benefits of fine art. "I love having Altman's lithographs of Monceau Parc in Paris. I can take a break, visually stroll through his lovely park and return to my work, without leaving my desk." November 7, 1991 Lovely ladies By Linda Ann Chomin Special Writer dazzle show of Tarkay art Artist Itzchak Tarkay of Israel unites color, line and the female form in his largest exhibition to date, “Intimate Moments,” at Park West Gallery® through November 21. Master of color, line and female form, Itzchak Tarkay of Israel, portrays beautiful ladies in "Intimate Moments" at Park West Gallery®, 29469 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, through Nov. 21. It's the largest exhibition to date by the internationally recognized painter. Tarkay focuses on the female figure by using simplicity of form and line, along with a rich palette not unlike Toulouse-Lautrec, to create sensitive portraits of elusive ladies. His work has been compared to masters Henri Matisse, Paul Gaugin and Edgar Degas along with other Post-Impressionists and Fauvists (Wild Elongated flow of color and strong vertical movement draw the eye into “Lady in Yellow” by Tarkay. Inspired by Near Eastern art, the figure pulls you across the gallery, luring you with seductive line, vibrant color and porcelain-like skin. Beasts). There's a hint of Cezanne in his twodimensional figures. There's even a hint of early Picasso. Tarkay's ladies, in pure red, green, yellow and black, dazzle viewers of this 169-piece exhibition, which includes 57 paintings, 28 watercolors, 15 drawings and 69 serigraphs. "I am extremely honored to host the Tarkay exhibition," said Albert Scaglione, Park West® president. "It is because of the size of our gallery and our five year relationship with Tarkay, we are able to present the largest exhibition to date." This historic exhibition fills all 12 galleries of the museum-like Park West®. Only twice in the gallery's existence has Scaglione devoted his © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 99 November 7, 1991 / cont. Exhibition dazzles entire space to a single artist. Mounting an exhibition this size is a feat surpassed only by the work of Tarkay. "Tarkay has a great history behind him. As an artist, he is a great colorist; the way he puts colors on the canvas, a great composer. His flowing line…Tarkay has the ability to handle line," Scaglione said. Tarkay received his training at Bezalel Academy of Art in Jerusalem and Avni Institute of Fine Art in Tel Aviv, studying under Mokadi and Streichman. He set aside painting after a brush with abstraction and the New Horizons group while in Avni. After a 15-year hiatus, Tarkay picked up his brush under the guidance of Rosenthalis. Within three years, his painting evolved into the Tarkay seen today. "Tarkay has lived through very dangerous times from a childhood spent at Mauthausen concentration camp to the bombings of Tel Aviv earlier this year. I feel it is because of this, his work is endowed with a freedom and spirit that is very exciting, very powerful." It is the way he uses his palette that is distinctly Tarkay. His reds are not red but ruby, scarlet, cherry and crimson. Long, elegant ladies dressed in black reflect not a somber tone, but are dark, mysterious. "Tarkay takes the Fauvist's colors," Scaglione said, "the green, the red. He has the ability to take colors that are so strong and vibrant and make them work together." Dry-brushed acrylic on canvas, “Garden Party” by Tarkay is melancholy and Matisse-like. The picture plane is broken into flat shapes of color, separated by thin black lines. Unusual for Tarkay is the fact he introduced background. make sketches and she go away. Then I finish sketches. Then I give it color. Then I finish, when I color," Tarkay said, reaching for the right English words in an interview at Park West®. Before Tarkay begins to paint, his palette is a mystery. "I don't know. Most of the time I know not even what I'm doing. The colors just (come) out." Tarkay drew both hands to his heart, then extended them outward toward one of the acrylic canvasses on the wall. "I try to explain (it) to myself. How can I put this green or blue or pink together?" Scaglione pointed to "The Dream," a portrait of a woman dressed in a pure black evening dress. "That is a beautiful, pure palette." Tarkay shrugged his shoulders and continued to speak passionately about his painting. "I don't try to be nice in your eyes. I do it for myself. If you like it, I'm happy." In a simple studio in Tel Aviv, Tarkay's new works begin with a model. "Model come for few hours. I Painting is an everyday affair for Tarkay. "Everyday average is 10 hours, sometimes 14 hours," Tarkay 100 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® said. "Seven o'clock is like I'm employed. At seven o'clock, I'm in the studio. Even if I don't have a good feeling. I start to do painting." A recent 57-day trip to Paris, New York, Tokyo and a stop in London to open a major exhibition of his work did not prevent Tarkay from painting. "I go back now to my hotel room. Take paper, take watercolor paint, then work," Tarkay said. "I continue to work. Not under control like you take air. I can do other. Still, painting is biggest part of my life." The vibrant color, flowing line and inherent beauty in the faces lacking detail is distinctly Tarkay. Gallery Events FANCH LEDAN IN PERSON FEBRUARY 12 EXHIBITION & SALE February 12 - March 25, 2004 Salvador Dali, Surrealist Master 1904-2004 A Centennial Exhibition and Sale Alfred Gockel Introducing in person at Park West Gallery • April 29, 2004 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Park West Gallery® events I remember the first time I ever saw the Picasso etching “Femme assise et Femme de Dos”. It was 1974 and I was in Paris in the apartment of Henri Petiet, the extraordinary art dealer. It was during one of those wonderful afternoons I spent with him that I watched in amazement when he took an entire Suite Vollard (all 100 original works) and like a deck of cards spread them out across the piano he used as a table for viewing art. Although I collected my first Picasso in the 60's, it wasn’t until I met Henri Petiet that my Picasso collecting changed from a pastime to a passion. Petiet bought the estate of Ambrose Vollard, another great art dealer who represented both Picasso and Renoir during their lifetimes. Vollard is best remembered for commissioning Picasso to create 100 etchings and engravings between 1932 and 1934. This body of work would come to be known as the “Suite Vollard”. These works were initially not signed by Picasso, but over the years Petiet paid Picasso to sign many of them. I learned many things from Petiet during my visits ~ that the signing of the Suite Vollard works were typically on Sundays ~ that Petiet would bring lots of sharp pencils ~ that the signatures varied greatly as the pencils would be worn down to a nub by Picasso ~ that not all of the Suite Vollard works were hand signed by Picasso ~ that the great works (according to Petiet the great ones were those he could sell for the most money) were all signed and that many of the less desirable ones were not. There is so much more I could write about Petiet and those wonderful meetings in Paris ~ his antique trains ~ his fascinating stories ~ his Renoir collection ~ his recollection of Georges Roualt as a "brute of a man" ~ his telling me that he had cancelled an appointment with the curator of a "large New York museum" so that he could see me “that day” (I remember feeling a bit awkward at the time) ~ his nearly perfect English spoken with a British accent and just a hint of French. In Paris, I also worked with Maurice Jardot, director of the Galerie Louise Leuris. This distinguished gallery was the last publisher of Picasso and I remember my visits as being extraordinary collecting and dealing experiences. I remember bringing Jardot an example of the extremely rare lithograph "Portrait of Jacqueline" so that he could determine whether or not it was authentic. After his very thorough inspection and my feeling like I was watching Sherlock Holmes on one of his missions, he finally spoke to me. Here is what I learned that day: the work had likely been stolen from the printing atelier when it should have been destroyed; it was a flawed working proof that Picasso never had any intention of signing; both the signature and the numbers were in the wrong places on the paper; the numbering did not match the handwriting of the actual numberer; small plate marks on the paper (almost invisible to the naked eye) were not on any of the signed works; small pinholes in the paper, caused by the proofing process, were not on any of the signed works. In short it was a forgery. More importantly, he patiently and carefully explained each step of the process and how he arrived at the fact. During that and other visits I spent many hours learning. It was a pleasure and a privilege I will never forget. This exhibition spans five decades during which Park West® has both collected and sold thousands of original works of Picasso. Although I never had the good fortune of meeting Picasso when he was alive, with this exhibition we pay tribute to him for the contribution his work has made in building our new gallery. This is the first Picasso exhibition and sale in the new space. It takes up three of the 23 galleries here and is the beginning of an ever changing, but permanent installation of Picasso work at the new Park West®. Albert Scaglione Park West Gallery® 102 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Park West Gallery® events I remember how I sometimes felt overwhelmed as I stood with Madame Aime Maeght viewing literally hundreds and hundreds of Chagalls over the years. The most exciting part was that I was not just viewing them, but buying them. The Maeght Galerie of Paris published many of the lithographs Chagall did during his lifetime. I was privileged to be a prime dealer, that is, to be allowed to buy at least one and often more examples of new releases of Chagall. The late sixties and seventies were particularly rich times for me at the Galerie Maeght. Not only would I be collecting new Chagall works, but new Miro works, who was also published by the Galerie Maeght. It was at the Galerie that I met these great masters. It was an experience, or better yet, a whole series of experiences that I shall never forget. Most amazing, my visual memory of the artists is that Miro seemed to me more like an accountant, prim and proper and dressed in a suit. By contrast, Chagall had a peculiar and happy look about him which always caused me to smile and enjoy just being in his presence. Chagall also published works with the well-known Mazo Gallery in Paris. My work there with Mr. Mazo and his assistant Yves Lebouc were enriching experiences, where I was again privileged to be a prime dealer able to buy one or more examples of all new releases. In preparing this exhibition I enjoyed remembering so many rich experiences I had in building the Park West Gallery® Chagall collection. The works seemed like old friends which would come and go. To look at some of these works and realize that I had actually bought and sold different examples of the same image more than ten times fortunately did not make me feel older but extremely enriched. Just to catalog the lithographs of Marc Chagall took six volumes. Chagall was one of the most prolific and dominant printmakers of the twentieth century. When compared to the three other great contemporary masters, Picasso, Miro, and Dali, he was the greatest colorist of all. The key note to this exhibition is the opportunity to view extraordinary works in color which were created by Chagall over a wide range of years-from the twenties to the eighties. We are particularly pleased to offer a number of works from the Bible, initially created in the thirties, but completed slowly and over many years during which Chagall hand-painted each of the etchings. The subtle use of color to enhance and enrich each of the etchings in a way unique for each one is an extraordinary testament to the dedication, hard work, energy and power that was Chagall. We are fortunate to have a selection of works from the sixties, including the "Daphnis and Chloe" series and the "Circus" series. These lithographs rank with the greatest lithographs created by any artist during the entire twentieth century. To offer works from the twenties, when Chagall was still a budding and developing young talent, is a treat. Several will be at this exhibition and sale. No amount of writing, however, can equal the experience of becoming intimately involved with one of these works through the pleasure of just being with it and viewing it. Like our Picasso exhibition, this exhibition covers five decades during which Park West® has both collected and sold thousands of original works of Chagall. This is the first Chagall exhibition and sale in our new space. It takes up three of the 23 galleries here and is the beginning of an ever changing, but permanent, installation of Chagall work at the new Park West®. Albert Scaglione Park West Gallery® © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 103 Park West Gallery® events 5HPEUDQGW at PARK W EST G ALLERY • September 27 ‐ October 24, 2002 TOULOUSE-LAUTREC and the MARCUS GLENN BELLE EPOCH PARK WEST GALLERY® AUGUST 24, 25 & 26 Sale Ends September 13 104 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® Park West Gallery® events FANCH LEDAN IN PERSON FEBRUARY 12 EXHIBITION & SALE February 12 - March 25, 2004 Salvador Dali, Surrealist Master 1904-2004 A Centennial Exhibition and Sale © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 105 Park West Gallery® events Alfred Gockel Introducing in person at Park West Gallery • April 29, 2004 106 © 2012 Park West Gallery ® 29469 Northwestern • Southfield, MI 48034 Phone (248) 354-2343 or Toll Free (800) 521-9654 Type “Park West” in any search engine OR go directly to www.parkwestgallery.com © 2012 Park West Gallery ®