Well-situated just off Roswell Road in Buckhead, Huff Harrington Fine Art, Ltd. is not your typical art gallery. Something of a treasure chest, this charming haven is home to priceless jewels in the form of distinctive paintings, vibrant glassworks and antique French furnishings. Soft, pale gray walls serve as a perfect backdrop for artwork and the gallery’s many windows allow dazzling sunlight to illuminate each artist’s creation and dance across the dark hardwood floors. Intimate hallways lead to seven cozy display rooms where guests may view fine art as they relax on a comfy bench and listen to breezy music, losing themselves in the unique experience that is Huff Harrington.
A Labor of Love
With the grand opening of the gallery in February 2006, owners Ann Huff and Meg Harrington have reinvented, or at least redefined, art shopping. Huff began hosting art shows in her home and acquired a successful following, forming friendships with talented artists and alliances with other art enthusiasts, such as Harrington, who had also sold art in the private sector. Realizing that people responded well to a no-hassle, easy-going environment in which to purchase, or even simply learn about art, they joined forces and developed a self-described “homey” style of sales into a united business venture. Settling on an unassuming, single-story residence, they renovated the space, while maintaining the warmth and charm of the home it once was, and introduced their signature style and sophistication. The functional fireplace, pleasant kitchen and impeccable modern lighting merge contemporary and classic design.
When complimented on the welcoming and unpretentious feeling one gets when entering the showroom, Huff is pleased. “I think a lot of people are intimidated [by galleries],” she said. Striving to set a cheerful, leisurely feel for visitors to the gallery, Huff recalls recently losing track of a client who had been browsing toe works of art moments before. When Huff found her, she was in one of the back rooms, sitting as she would if she were a guest in a home, nestled on a seat in one of the themed rooms, soaking in the sensory delights of the gallery.
Upon meeting the charismatic hostesses, it’s easy to imagine they encouraged her to remain even longer, and perhaps even offered her a cup of French Roast and a croissant. Their hospitality is a welcome respite to the stark, institutional interiors of many galleries. The passion Huff and Harrington feel for both the art and the artists they represent is infectious. Each piece is thoughtfully considered, appreciated and hung with care. Point out a particular painting and they’ll share with you an element, a brushstroke, or even a story about that piece; a secret hidden heartbeat you may have missed. Harrington is happy to step back and let clients feel their way to the painting or object that speaks to them. Huff calls this the “tug,” an emotional zing one feels when finding that perfect piece.
Acting as trusted friends as much as salespersons, both are readily available, and eager, to share with customers design ideas, decorating tips, and historical information about artwork they may be interested in. Though the gallery’s rooms are basically thematic, the pieces are constantly rearranged as Huff and Harrington are continuously and spontaneously inspired. Don’t be surprised to find a large geometric abstract painting sharing space with the representational works. “The cohesive nature [of the pieces] makes them work together,” explained Harrington, noting that the common denominator needn’t be style, but may be a coordinating color or shared reaction.
Though the are businesswomen, they look to make more than a sale. They build relationships based on trust. When a client makes a purchase, Huff and Harrington want to “make sure they love it,” Huff said. On approval, clients may take a piece home to see how it works.
At Huff Harrington Fine Art, Ltd., art world novices will feel as at ease as aged connoisseurs. One gentleman reluctantly joined his wife for a visit and was so impressed with the relaxed atmosphere and gentle assistance of the owners that he later returned alone and has made several subsequent purchases as gifts for his wife. In this easy environment, he felt comfortable enough to nurture his own interest in art and has become a budding art collector.
Joie de Vivre
Huff and Harrington share more than a simple interest in art. Both women have been largely influenced by time spent abroad. Huff having been raised in Switzerland, and Harrington having lived in Europe and the Middle East. Despite their varied international experiences, the history, beauty and art found in the South of France became more than a passing fancy. To them, a business trip means long afternoons spent shopping for relics such as an elegant 18th-century French secretary, replete with ink-stained drawers or a solid walnut bonnetaire in Louis XV style from the Lyon region, dating back to the 19th century.
When it comes to choosing artwork for the gallery, the ladies are selective. They consider an individual’s experience and background when acquiring new work, but ultimately the deciding factors are the artist’s connection to the art and that person’s level of commitment to their work. Therefore, clients can rest assured that each and every piece in the gallery has a little something special, a certain je ne sais qouis.
Modern abstract masterpieces include works by Erin Reutsch. Using liberal brushstrokes and a seemingly amorphous style, Reutsch’s paintings are full of life and activity.
Artist Susan Spies’ abstract work is inspired by landscape and life. Colors of nature—pale green, sky blue and deep red—convey tranquility and grace.
Angela Nesbit’s portraits express the spontaneous pace of romping children. Her muted palette and ethereal scenes contradictorily capture both peaceful stillness and feverish movement.
Jean Michael Espinasse, an artist from Provence, creates hypnotic still-life paintings featuring the French countryside.
Dynamic colors and a sense of whimsy flourish in the designs by Suzanne Wallace Mears. Her cheerful paintings leap from the wall and are so full of life and energy that one might be tempted to reach out and pet “Clover,” a sweet study of a colorful canine in deep green. Intricate details and assorted shapes have also created an impressive following for Mears’ glassworks.
Lorraine Christie, an internationally known Irish artist now residing in Roswell, creates textured, eternal nudes and otherworldly silhouettes. The romantic “Meeting in the Rain” and “Tell Me What You Will” could be poignant snapshots from a faraway dream. “I try to create a general atmosphere of timelessness where [observers] are unsure of the era,” Christie explained. She is quick to attribute Huff and Harrington with creating an environment that lets people enjoy art without being pressured or feeling stalked by salespeople.
James Richards, a Georgia painter, creates many of his pieces “en plain air,” or outdoors, as Mother Nature is his muse. His use of shadows and light reveal the intense character of nature and a realness that pulls observers into each setting. “You feel like you know this road,” Huff said of Richards’ “Autumn Drive.” With a simple repositioning of the spotlight above, she pointed out that the depicted scene seemed to change from within, as if the winding road has been gently kissed by a setting sun. It is in these insights, as it is in the impulsive rearranging (and rediscovering) Huff and Harrington often enjoy, that the ladies unknowingly expose the artistry within themselves.
Happenings
The sociable vibe at Huff Harrington Fine Art, Ltd. makes it a great spot for special events such as a recent book signing party for author Betty Londergan’s novel “I’m Too Sexy for My Volvo,” and a painting demonstration with renowned artist Nancy Franke.
Philanthropic efforts are very much a part of the gallery’s big picture, so to speak. The owners are actively involved with charitable organizations; Huff with the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation and Harrington with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. This summer, artist Lorraine Christie will be doing a large-scale painting with several young patients at Scottish Rite. Together they will create an original tour de force celebrating life, hope and their dreams for the future. “[This project] gives these kids a chance to get involved in creating something,” Christie beamed. She explained that the work will be done in non-toxic acrylic paints because “all kids love to get messy!” she laughed. The finished piece will be unveiled at the gallery in November and shown there until it is auctioned in February 2007 to raise funds for the hospital.
