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You can talk about carbon emissions ’till your throat goes dry, but sometimes no amount of words quite captures the need to protect the earth so much as a single photograph. That’s exactly why The G2 Gallery in Venice, California has dedicated itself to showcasing environmentally conscious works to bring greater awareness through art.
We spoke with Jolene Hanson, director of the The G2 Gallery, to find out how eco-conscious art can help save the world.
What was the inspiration behind creating the G2 Gallery?
G2 Gallery owners Susan and Dan Gottlieb are environmentalists and philanthropists – and also photographers. They use The G2 Gallery as a way to support art and the environment by exhibiting nature and wildlife photography and donating all proceeds from art sales to environmental causes. Not only is the photography amazing but it provides the public with an awareness of current environmental challenges and also funds the organizations dedicated to addressing and solving those issues.
Exhibits at G2 Gallery have looked at subjects including endangered species, the Canadian Boreal Forest and Alberta Tar Sands, Land stewardship by First Nations, issues of contamination in the ocean and many more. The Gallery supports organizations both locally and internationally including but not limited to Audubon, Heal the Bay, Sierra Club, Conservation International and Ballona Wetlands.
Why art over other environmental platforms?
By choosing art as the platform we are able to both educate and inspire the general public about current issues and the importance of the environment around us to sustain our own lives. By donating the proceeds form sales and utilizing the gallery as a fundraising venue we are able to help support those working diligently on preserving our land and animals for our future.
How often to the exhibitions/art change?
The G2 gallery exhibitions change approximately every six weeks with at least 2 different exhibits on view along with our permanent collection of artists. You can visit us online at www.theg2gallery.com to view current, upcoming and past exhibitions.
How do visitors interact with the gallery versus how they would at a typical gallery?
Visitor interaction is unique as the gallery offers something for everyone. With the diversity in exhibits, events and fundraisers we attract environmentalists, artists, photographers, educators and collectors. A very big difference is the content visitors take away regarding environmental issues and organizations. The gallery used to ask for suggested donations but now we charge $5 at the door for special events and donate 100% of this the charity we happen to be supporting at the time. The gallery facility is much larger than your typical gallery in Los Angeles, and hosts multiple shows as well as permanent artists and a collection of Ansel Adams photography.
Do you have any favorite piece(s) of artwork you’ve exhibit that epitomizes what the gallery stands for?
It is hard to choose just one image. Its easier to look at a body of work (a complete exhibit) and how it exemplifies the issues at hand. Our Boreal Future exhibit featuring photographer Garth Lenz is a superior example of taking an area of our planet, determining the issues facing it, and showing the good, the bad, and the ugly. Exhibits like this tend to lead to change and evoke a “I had no idea” response from patrons.
In addition to the exhibits we bring in speakers (including the photographers, industry experts and environmental leaders) who are able to share with the public challenges, conservation efforts, and how you can help. We say that when you buy an image from the G2 gallery you not only get a great piece of art but you also are helping the environment.
Photo credit: InterTribal Sinkyone Wilderness, Jack Dykinga, G2 Gallery, California
Visit:
The G2 Gallery
1503 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291