By Laurie Davis

Main Street in St. Helena is already a shopper’s paradise. Now it is also a destination for serious art collectors or those who simply enjoy discovering quality art.

The I. Wolk Gallery draws in visitors and area residents alike with a captivating collection of well-established American artists who produce “mature” work, from abstract to representational. Large, dramatic oil paintings are accompanied by more intimate pastels and whimsical ceramic tile sculptures. Watercolors, metal sculpture and even some hard-to-find photogravure pieces are also on display. Exhibits are changed monthly, so frequent visitors will be rewarded with fresh new perspectives on art and artists.

Gallery director Ira Wolk has found himself in two kinds of paradise: being able to share the art he truly loves, and presenting world-class artists in a rural setting. “This is a really unusual gallery for this kind of community,” says Wolk. “The quality of work we show here is on par
with the best galleries in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles or San Francisco. Some of it is fun, some is serious. I love the variety, and that’s what pleases our visitors as well.”

And there's even more to see at the Auberge du Soleil, one of the Valley's finest resorts that sits perched above Silverado Trail not far from downtown St. Helena. Wolk has extended his sculpture gallery to the lush grounds of the Auberge and with over a hundred works of art situated on the property it’s a unique way to experience a commercial gallery. The works are from primarily regional artists, both emerging and well established; all are for sale through the St. Helena gallery.

The I. Wolk Gallery presents several shows every year, each highlighting specific artists. There is also an annual art lecture series. A calendar of events through 2002 is available by request. You can't miss the gallery, which is at 1354 Main Street in St. Helena. For more information, call (707) 963-8800, or visit www.iwolkgallery.com.