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SALT LAKE CITY -- It may seem like a risky time to open or expand a business, but to some it's the perfect time. That includes business owners and artists involved in Friday night's Gallery Stroll and the Living Traditions Festival.
Susan Meyer opened her new gallery on the ground floor of The Metro Condominiums in January. She admits it might seem a little crazy.
"I don't think anyone who sells a luxury product, or something that is optional to buy, is in a booming business right now," she said.
But, Meyer embraces the challenge. Fifteen years ago, she bought the gallery her parents started in Park City, and that gives her a solid base.
"It's actually a super time to buy art because there's more inventory of really good pieces than I've ever seen," Meyer said.
Bountiful native Seth Winegar is the featured artist at Meyer Gallery for Friday night's stroll. The painter of landscapes and still life strives to match his favorite Utah artists as he hones his skills.
"I've just always wanted to be better and better, and tried to be like those guys that I saw when I was younger, growing up," Winegar said.
It's a large group of small paintings, so potential buyers might find more affordable works.
"If you don't try to go with the flow, and go against the grain, you can hurt yourself trying to cater to everyone," Winegar said.
In a tough economy like this, some people might decide art makes a better investment that the stock market. "There's more negotiations on art purchases and better inventory, so real collectors are actually making some good moves right now," Meyer said.
That might not be your thing at all, but the gallery stroll isn't just for collectors. It is a also great way to enjoy the evening, and it doesn't cost anything to look and enjoy the great talents of local artists.
E-mail: jboal@ksl.com
