The Underwood Gallery: 2002 -2010
Between 2002 to 2010 the Underwood Gallery offered an eclectic collection of contemporary crafts and fine art work.
Content is from the site's archived pages providing a glimpse of the type of art work this gallery offered.
The Underwood Gallery is now closed.
The Underwood Gallery is Milwaukee’s most diverse source of fine art and contemporary craft. Representing over 140 artists and crafts people from the United States and Canada.
The Underwood Gallery carries many unique items, including:
- Art Glass
- Pottery
- Paintings
- Prints
- Art Jewelry
- Finely Crafted Wood Boxes
- Photography
- and many more unique items.
Underwood Gallery always offers layaway, free shipping on jewelry, complimentary gift packaging, special ordering and shipping services. In 2009, resolve to buy locally, buy Made-In-America!
Located in the historic Village of Wauwatosa in the original cream city brick firehouse built in 1899.
Welcome to the Village of Wauwatosa
Plan your escape to the historic Village of Wauwatosa, located just minutes west of the city of Milwaukee and nestled along the banks of the Menomonee River. See the Village buildings of the past that still shine, presenting taste, style and grace to the present.
Delectable dining choices, diverse shopping, galleries and more await you! Hit the biking or hiking trails, rollerblade along the Parkway or relax with a treatment in a spa. It's an open air urban neighborhood experience.
Keeping it fresh…
keeps it interesting
The Village is expanding! And there's more in the works. Come see why it's a great place to visit, work and live.
2010
CURRENT IN-GALLERY PROMOTIONS
Winter Scarf Sale
Save 40% on all Winter Scarves by Kristin Gereau, KG Textiles.
LOCAL ARTIST FEATURED ON RACHEL RAY SHOW
"Rachel Ray's Daytime Television Show selects Featured Artist as Vendor for their Show!"
The Rachael Ray Show has selected a local Wisconsin artist, Jessie Voss Schroeder, a popular local potter as an official vendor of the television show. Jessie has been a featured artist at Underwood Gallery in the Village of Wauwatosa for 7 years.
The show displayed a large selection of her pottery vases, pitchers, dinnerware and serving pieces on their set. Rachael cooked and served with bowls and plates in a wide variety of shapes and colors. Everything can be viewed and purchased at Underwood Gallery.
The show will be using Jessie's pieces throughout the season, but the kickoff show with the artist's Dark Red and Blue Pattern bowls debuted during the cooking segment on Friday, November 6, 2009. The show can be seen on Ch 7 - Cable/ or Ch 41 WMLW at 7 pm. Look for more of her pieces in other episodes! Underwood Gallery carries a variety of Jessie's patterns.
ANNUAL UNDERWOOD GALLERY CONTEST
"Why do you buy or want to collect Original Art?"
Essay contest!
Buying and collecting original artwork defines your living spaces. It enriches your life and supports an important part of our artistic culture in keeping creativity alive. Artists need our support. Submit an essay 500 words or less about why you buy or why you want to begin collecting original art. The essay that expresses the best in why art is important to you will be selected and published on my website. The selected essay writer will also receive an original 12" x 12" painting from Pamela Anderson. This is the first of what will become an annual event. Can't wait to hear why art is important to you!
NEW TO UNDERWOOD GALLERY
Studio Sculpture
Gail creates three-dimensional images from a flat sheet of metal - 20 gauge steel by folding and bending a shape she cuts with either a plasma torch or a pair of tin snips. She explores metal's kinetic movement so pieces can bounce, fly or dance in the breeze. The organic quality of her pieces transcend the connotations of the medium. Instead of harsh edges, there is line and movement. It is often a wonderful mystery as where the piece begins or ends! Each design weaves into itself creating the whole. Her collection includes works in stainless steel, rusted steel and a variety of colored powder-coated finishes.
Her backstory is an unusual one, beginning when she took a part-time job handling customer service calls for a small outfit selling cleaning supplies online. The calls usually involved either sales questions or complaints concerning orders of laundry detergents, vacuum cleaner bags, and everything in between. One caller had a question about the construction of the garbage bins in the catalog and she did not know the answer. Contacting the manufacturer, the director who happened to take her call was so impressed with her knowledge of metal craft that he invited her to the plant to witness the manufacturing process. This lead directly to her fascination with the use of sheet metal as a resource for art. So in a sense, it was the cleaning supplies that initiated her interest in sculpture!
UPCOMING EVENTS AT UNDERWOOD GALLERY
Westside Artwalk
April 23, 2010, 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
April 24, 2010, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Westside Artwalk has an exciting addition this spring! MARN (Milwaukee Artists Resource Network) is partnering with Artwalk and will be featuring several prominent Milwaukee Artists with their original artwork available for sale! Whether you are a collector or just starting an art collection, you will be able to find affordable art for sale. Explore the Village area, enjoy features to enhance your urban living experience. In addition to art you will find entertainment and many great dining choices for breakfast, lunch or dinner!
Hours of Operation
Monday - Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Seasonal hours. Please call us to see if we are presently open on Sundays.
Contact Information
The Underwood Gallery
1430 Underwood Avenue
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
2006 Upcoming Events:
Spring & Summer Trunk Show
Presented by The Distinguished Bag Lady
Friday, March 31, 2006, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 01, 2006, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sip champagne and indulge in chocolates from Gail Ambrosius, Chocolatier while browsing the beautiful bags offered by The Distinguished Bag Lady.
Register in the gallery for a chance to win one of the purses we will offer each day of the event!
Download a printable flyer for more information or email Pamela to RSVP by March 28, 2006.
More Background On The Underwood Gallery
The Underwood Gallery, located in Wauwatosa, Milwaukee County WI, was a prominent art institution from 2002 to 2010. During its operational years, the gallery gained a reputation for its diverse collection of contemporary crafts and fine art, as well as its deep engagement with the local art community. This article delves into the factors contributing to its popularity and influence, exploring its exhibitions, community events, artist features, and the overall impact on Milwaukee's cultural scene.
A Historical Context
The Underwood Gallery distinguished itself by showcasing over 140 artists and craftspeople from across the United States and Canada. Its location in Wauwatosa added a quaint charm, drawing art lovers into a picturesque setting along the banks of the Menomonee River. The Village of Wauwatosa itself is a blend of historical architecture and modern amenities, making it a fitting home for a gallery dedicated to both preserving and advancing the arts.
Exhibitions and Artistic Diversity
Diverse Art Collections
The Underwood Gallery was renowned for its eclectic mix of art forms. It showcased a variety of mediums, including:
- Art Glass: Intricate and colorful glassworks.
- Pottery: Unique ceramics by local artists, including Jessie Voss Schroeder.
- Paintings and Prints: A wide range of styles from abstract to realism.
- Art Jewelry: Handcrafted pieces that combined artistic vision with wearable art.
- Crafted Wood Boxes: Finely crafted items that highlighted the skill of local artisans.
- Photography: Works that captured the essence of both local and broader themes.
Special Features and Promotions
The gallery often ran special promotions to attract visitors, such as their annual winter scarf sale and featured artist events, which showcased the works of artists like Kristin Gereau of KG Textiles. These promotions not only boosted sales but also kept the gallery in the public eye.
Community Engagement and Events
Annual Art Contests
The Underwood Gallery's annual essay contest, which invited participants to write about the importance of collecting original art, fostered a deep connection between the gallery and the community. This contest encouraged artistic appreciation and supported the local art scene by highlighting the value of original artworks.
Collaborative Events
Events like the Westside Artwalk and partnerships with organizations such as the Milwaukee Artists Resource Network (MARN) were significant in drawing crowds. These events combined art exhibitions with local entertainment and dining, creating a holistic and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Local and National Artist Features
The gallery's decision to feature both local talents and national artists played a crucial role in its popularity. Local artists like Jessie Voss Schroeder, whose work was featured on "The Rachael Ray Show," brought national attention to the gallery, while the inclusion of renowned national artists attracted art collectors and enthusiasts from beyond Milwaukee.
Reviews and Public Reception
Critical Acclaim
The Underwood Gallery received positive reviews from art critics and visitors alike. Reviewers often praised the gallery for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse collections, and the quality of its exhibitions. The gallery's ability to blend high-caliber art with a community-focused approach was frequently highlighted in reviews.
Visitor Testimonials
Visitors often left glowing reviews, noting the gallery's unique charm and the quality of the art displayed. The personal touch of the gallery, from its friendly staff to its engaging events, left a lasting impression on many patrons.
Comparisons with Other Galleries
Milwaukee's Art Scene
The Underwood Gallery's impact is best understood when compared to other notable galleries in Milwaukee. For instance, the Dean Jensen Gallery, known for its focus on contemporary art and its historic architecture, shares similarities with Underwood in terms of artistic diversity and community engagement. Meanwhile, galleries like the Tory Folliard Gallery, which showcases both emerging and established artists, also highlight the competitive and vibrant art scene in Milwaukee County.
Press and Media Coverage
Press Highlights
The Underwood Gallery received considerable media attention during its years of operation. Publications like the Shepherd Express and OnMilwaukee frequently mentioned the gallery in their coverage of Milwaukee's art scene. The gallery was often highlighted for its unique exhibitions and contributions to local culture.
Awards and Recognition
The gallery was also recognized by the Milwaukee Press Club, which celebrated the achievements of local journalists and media outlets. This recognition underscored the gallery's importance in the cultural and artistic landscape of Milwaukee.
Cultural Impact
Supporting Local Artists
The gallery played a significant role in supporting local artists and bringing their work to a broader audience. This support not only helped individual artists gain recognition but also strengthened the local art community as a whole.
Educational Influence
Through its events, contests, and exhibitions, the Underwood Gallery educated the public about the importance of art. It promoted the idea that art is not just for elite collectors but is accessible and valuable to everyone.
The Underwood Gallery, despite its closure in 2010, left a profound impact on Milwaukee County’s art scene. Its diverse exhibitions, community-focused events, and support for local and national artists made it a beloved institution. The gallery's blend of quality art and community engagement created a legacy that continues to inspire and influence the Milwaukee art community. Its popularity was a testament to the gallery's commitment to making art accessible, enjoyable, and integral to the cultural fabric of the city.
