Full Moon, Casa Ramos, and Costa Gallery
Every July—once I get over the initial shock of seeing Halloween decorations and costumes begin to appear at Costco—it gets worse. Three weeks later, suddenly Christmas items are on display.
My absolute favorite holiday is Halloween, so a 10-foot skeleton looks attractive to me (and my Hubby, who lusts after it!). But sadly, Christmas is not my favorite holiday. While fun, Christmas to many of us also means a lot of work, and frankly it’s exhausting.
To minimize the pressure, I’ve found a way to lessen the stress of December by starting my holiday shopping around June. Being a member of an artistic family is a great reason to shop for unique art or fine crafts made by Central Coast artists.
There is no time of year too early to shop for holiday gifts for those you care about!”
With that in mind, I’ve spent the last few weeks compiling a list of Central Coast galleries that might help fulfill your holiday gift giving. While several of these venues are tried and true favorites, it’s incredibly fun to discover smaller, off-the-beaten-track galleries and meet the artists and proprietors.
In coming weeks, the Hubby and I will continue our search throughout the county for newer and interesting art galleries to share with you. Just remember my personal philosophy: There is no time of year too early to shop for holiday gifts for those you care about!
Let’s start with a few old favorites, and some I’ve recently discovered, along the Coast. I promise more to come before the holidays are upon us!
Costa Gallery in Los Osos is a treasure and provides an endless supply of interesting finds. Not to be missed are works by local artists Larry LeBrane (amazing fused glass art), Paula Delay (exceptional plein air paintings), Flo Bartell (breathtaking encaustic paintings) and many others. Gallery owner Michael Costa is a human bolt of sheer energy and displays art photography from his frequent travels. Open every day except Tuesday, but hours vary.
Casa Ramos Art Gallery, also in Los Osos, showcases the work of well-known artist John Ramos and others with paintings of colorful Central Coast locations as well as sculpture, art glass, ceramics and jewelry. But you’ll need to call before you go as hours vary.
Marea Art Studio is in an older, tiny building in Baywood Park, but don’t be deceived and drive by without stopping! Dozens of treasures can be found here and prices are incredibly reasonable. You’ll find loads of jewelry, textiles, ceramics, paintings and much more, all created by local artists. Call (917) 301-5548 before you go as hours vary.
Full Moon, a studio and gallery in Morro Bay, has been around since the mid-’70s. You’ll find incredible pottery, paintings and ceramic sculpture by owners Hedy and Ross Hale. They welcome you with warmth and exuberance, and are two of the nicest, most talented people you’ll ever want to meet. The gallery is open most Saturdays, or you can call for an appointment.