Gallery Spotlight: Charlotte Russell Contemporary
February 15, 2022
by Lauren Rose
North State Journal
There’s no questioning gallery owner Charlotte Russell’s love for the arts.
“My parents are art collectors, so growing up we spent a lot of time in museums and galleries in our hometown, San Francisco, and around the world,” Russell said.
“I loved the experience of seeing art as a child and was instantly drawn to the art world.”
Russell is the founder of Charlotte Russell Contemporary, a fine art gallery located in Raleigh.
Though not an artist herself, Russell’s bachelor’s degree in art history at the University of Virginia and master’s degree in exhibition and museum studies from San Francisco Art Institute have led her to experience “various capacities in the contemporary art world, from art galleries to nonprofits to auction houses, for the last 13 years.”
Russell noted that it was her passion for art and sharing works of art with others that was the main reason for opening her gallery.
“The thread between all of my roles in the arts is my love for showcasing amazing artists,” Russell said.
“When the pandemic hit, I was offered an unbelievable opportunity to open a pop-up gallery space in the Village District. The success was immediate, and I knew I needed to open a permanent gallery space.
“I opened my Fairview Road location in September 2021 with the vision of having a space to exhibit local and national contemporary art.”
For the gallery, Russell is “drawn to process-driven work, vibrant colors, and interesting stories behind the pieces and the artists.
“There are so many amazing artists working in the Triangle. … If you check out any of my exhibitions, the artists I exhibit are the ones I have my eye on,” she said.
To learn more about the Charlotte Russell Contemporary fine art gallery and the works represented, visit charlotterussellcontemporary.com or visit the gallery at 2012 Fairvew Rd. in Raleigh.
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Current and upcoming events:
Color Focus at Sertoma
Now – Feb. 27
“Color Focus,” on view at Sertoma Arts Center, showcases five artists living and working in the Triangle. The featured artists explore and push the boundaries of color with their unique media, concept and process.
Change in Perspective at Hartwell
Now – April 29
Featured artists on view at “Change in Perspective” at Hartwell include Mar Hester, Tacey Hesmer, Nan Jones and Mayanthi Jayawardena.
Solo Exhibit of King Nobuyoshi Godwin
March 4 – April 6
A solo exhibition of artwork by Raleigh-based artist King Nobuyoshi Godwin
Opening reception March 11, 5:30-7:30 p.m
For more information on current and future events visit charlotterussellcontemporary.com/exhibitions/.