Montanaro Gallery Captures Nature, Historic Buildings, and the Newport Community

By: Emily Dauenhauer
Posted In: Entertainment

Montanaro Gallery on Thames Street in Newport opened its doors to the public on March 18, 2006 and hasn’t looked back since.

With an extensive art background and local gallery connections, Montanaro Gallery seems to have that elusive staying power.

Gallery owner Michael Montanaro’s background in art is extensive. He received his bachelors degree in Fine Arts from Saint Michael’s College. Montanaro also studied at the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts as well as at the Studio Arts Centers International in Florence, Italy.

Montanaro Gallery opened hoping to, “encourage art enthusiasts to make rewarding selections and guide established collectors towards the finest contemporary works that will advance their estates.”

Montanaro feels that the art at Montanaro Gallery is, “an investment and an opportunity.” A lot of the work that Montanaro Gallery sells is from emerging active artists whose works can’t be found at any other gallery in Newport.

“We want people to feel confident that they’re buying a true investment,” Montanaro said. “The artists are actively pursuing their careers, they’re passionate about what they do, and are working to break through.”

Montanaro Gallery is also home to the Montanaro’s limited edition clothing line, Montanaro Designs. Montanaro Designs was developed for both men and women. The line consists of limited edition ties, tees, and hoody sweatshirt.

All the clothing is designed by Montanaro and his wife Elizabeth who is also an active artist and co-owner of Montanaro Gallery.

Mrs. Montanaro also has an extensive art background. She graduated from St. Michael’s College in Colchester, Vermont with a major in journalism and a focus in photography and design. Mrs. Montanaro’s paintings, portraits and wall murals have been featured at many shows.

On Saturday, April 1, 2006, Montanaro Gallery hosted its first gallery auction entitled “Same as it Ever Was.” Mr. Montanaro is anticipating a large crowd for the event, “the support from the Newport community has been overwhelming.”

As a new business owner, Mr. Montanaro already has strong ties in the Newport community. Half of the proceeds collected from Saturday night’s auction will be donated to the Norman Bird Sanctuary, a local nature preserve.

“Donating to such a worthy cause is like giving back to nature,” he said. “As an artist you come to appreciate nature and want to give back however you can.”

Mr. Montanaro’s passion doesn’t come from just being an artist. He gained his appreciation of nature through a variety of outdoor activities. Among others things, he has been a professional snowboarder for Burton, as well as a surfing and skateboarding enthusiast.

Whether you’re a collector or someone in search of a perfect piece to fill your wall, the Montanaro Gallery is worth the look. Many pieces feature local landmarks such as the Claiborne Pell (Newport) Bridge and breathtaking costal scenes.

Montanaro Gallery is located at 518 Thames St. and is open everyday but Tuesday from 12-6 p.m. Stop by or to get updates on monthly exhibits visit them online at: http://www.montanarogallery.com.