Art Burger, a name synonymous with art and entrepreneurship, has created an art-lover’s destination in the heart of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico—The Center Gallery. With his remarkable blend of business acumen and a keen eye for fine art, Art is the force behind this thriving gallery experience.
The Genesis of Art’s Interest in Art
Remember when you bought your first piece of art? For Art, it was a fascinating journey that began with his own mother’s artwork, which he treasures to this day. He bought his first collector art piece at an auction at the National Gallery of Art, further kindling an interest that would later take the form of Center Gallery.
When he moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico, Art dived deep into the art scene, attending gallery tours and expanding his art collection. Who knew that this hobby would one day take the shape of a business venture?
Translating Passion into Profession: Center Gallery
From Soft Opening to Official Launch
In May of 2021, Art embarked on a journey to turn his dream into reality. With Covid in full swing at that time, Art opened the doors to Center Gallery with a soft opening, displaying art from his personal collection. The gallery officially opened its doors on Labor Day weekend, 2021, marking the beginning of a now very successful venture.
Building an Artistic Community: The Artists of Center Gallery
Center Gallery now proudly hosts artwork from 14 artists, including the likes of famed Carlis Chee, along with Robbie Nicole Brinkley (Christie Brinkley’s sister), Joan Epstein, Carolyn Cazares, Chris Krieg and many others. But how does a gallery manage to attract such talent? The answer lies in the man behind the gallery—Art Burger.
Understanding the Client Base of Center Gallery
Art originally envisioned his clients as cross-country travelers and snowbirds. To his surprise, local collectors, home builders, and international travelers represent the majority of the gallery’s patrons. It’s a testament to Art’s ability to connect with a wide array of art enthusiasts and adapt to the unique dynamics of the local and global art market. He has also been successful in growing internet sales.
Center Gallery: Not Just an Ordinary Gallery
The Challenge of Location
Every endeavor faces its own set of challenges. For Center Gallery, it was the location. Tucked away on a side street at 201 S. Foch St., in Truth or Consequences, the gallery is not easily seen from Truth or Consequences’ main shopping streets. Yet, the gallery has managed to not only survive but thrive, breaking through geographical barriers with fine art that attracts both casual and serious art buyers.
Fostering Future Artists: Art’s Support for Student Art Shows
Art’s passion for art is not limited to his gallery alone. He believes in nurturing young talent, evident from his support for student art and artists. The gallery has already hosted two student art shows, providing a platform for young artists to showcase their work.
The most recent show featured art from 60 students, competing by grade level. Art gave out $4,600 in awards to these young creators, selling over 40 art pieces during the show. Every month, one winning student’s art is featured in his gallery, further encouraging young talent.
Supporting Truth or Consequences’ Art Hop
A strong supporter of Truth or Consequences’ Art Hop, Art enjoys participating in this monthly event. From 6-9pm on the second Saturday of each month, Center Gallery, together with many downtown galleries and shops, open their doors to welcome locals and visitors, often with music, street performers, food and other activities enhancing the experience.
Merging Art and Technology
In a world where art and technology often exist in silos, Art has seamlessly merged Center Gallery with his other venture, Burger, Carroll & Associates, Inc. which he oversees from his office at the gallery. As a management and information technology consultant, Art specializes in quality assurance in the planning, procurement, and implementation of large data systems, which dovetails perfectly with Art’s interest in art as both require an eye for detail and a commitment to quality and precision.
A Family Affair
Every successful venture requires a supportive team. For Art, this support came from his niece, Ducky, who moved from Albuquerque to Truth or Consequences to help him run the gallery. Together, they have turned Center Gallery into a highly sought-after destination for fine art.
Conclusion
Center Gallery invites art lovers to immerse themselves in the captivating works by the many talented artists featured in the gallery, beautifully displayed in the gallery’ many rooms. Guests are welcomed from 9am-4pm Monday through Friday and 11am-3pm Saturdays and Sundays. To learn more, visit the gallery’s website at The Center Gallery.
FAQs:
1. Who is Art Burger?
Art Burger is the owner of Center Gallery and a passionate art collector. He also runs a management and information technology consultancy named Burger, Carroll & Associates, Inc. He is known for his passion for art, his commitment to supporting local and emerging artists, and his dedication to nurturing talent.
2. Where is the Center Gallery located?
Center Gallery is located at 201 S. Foch St., Truth or Consequences, NM. Despite being tucked away on a side street, it has grown to be a highly-respected and popular destination for art enthusiasts.
3. What are the operating hours of Center Gallery? Center Gallery is open from 9 am to 4 pm from Monday through Friday, and from 11 am to 3 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
4. Who are some of the artists featured at Center Gallery? Center Gallery proudly hosts artwork from 14 artists, including famed Carlis Chee, Robbie Nicole Brinkley (sister of Christie Brinkley), Joan Epstein, Carolyn Cazares, and Chris Krieg, among others.5. How does Center Gallery support young artists? Center Gallery hosts student art shows to foster young talent. The gallery has hosted two student art shows to date, and features art from a winning student each month.
