Giandra Shepard has a love for art that evolved from buying what she likes to helping emerging artists show their work.
A full-time children’s therapist at Daniel Memorial, she decided to become an art dealer and in November opened Studio Zsa Zsa LaPree.
“Helping children is my purpose, but art is my passion,” said Shepard.
Her decision to lease space on the ground floor at 233 E. Bay St, — Downtown in the Blackstone Building, which is occupied almost exclusively by law firms — was validated just a few days after the gallery opened.
“My first sale was to an attorney who works in the building. She bought a piece for her assistant,” Shepard said.
The gallery specializes in exhibiting paintings, sketches and photography by black artists who are just beginning their careers.
They haven’t developed enough of a following to be confident about whether their work will be accepted by the public or possibly added to someone’s collection.
“I’ve learned that some artists are fearful,” said Shepard. “I’ve created a space where up-and-coming artists can be comfortable showing their art.”
The gallery opened with a show of work by photographers Natasha Gumbs and Taurean Royal and painter Durden Godfrey.
Poet Ahynte Heard performed at the gallery’s debut, which established Shepard’s vision for it to be a showcase for performance art as well.
“I want this space to cultivate all types of art,” said Shepard.
The space also is available for events.
There will be a private brunch at the gallery early on Dec. 31, then Shepard will get ready for the gallery’s first New Year’s Eve exhibition opening and party.
Featured will be new works by painters Jasmine Aldershof and KiAndra Jones and sketch artist Ashley Dickerson.
Soul vocalist Kia Nicole will perform while guests sip champagne and watch the midnight pyrotechnics display over the St. Johns River, Shepard said.
“That’s another reason I like it here. There’s a great view of the fireworks,” she said.
More information is available at Zsa Zsa Lapree on Facebook.com. The gallery is open 4-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and by appointment.
(904) 356-2466