Artisan Magazine Summer Issue 2017

artisan

nevada’s first visual and performing arts magazine
summer issue 2017

Enjoy Historic Art and Delicious
Family Dining at the Southwest Diner

in Fabulous Boulder City!

IN THE
SPOTLIGHT
Southwest Diner

Pages 6 - 7

The story behind
The Smith Center
For The Performing Arts

Pages 10-11

BOULDER DAM BREWING CO. • AWARD-WINNING BREWS!
DELICIOUS FOOD • GREAT ENTERTAINMENT
Pages 12-13

City Lights Art Gallery

Promoting local art and art education Merle Blair Williams moved
to the Las Vegas area from
Tommy Tucker enjoys Canada in 1966 and pursued
networking and finds this a nursing career at UMC.
magazine to be a great Although having painted at
networking tool.

As President of City Lights intervals throughout her life,
Artists’ Co-op, Tommy loves to promote the she did not become active in the art
members in many venues. We have artwork community until after she retired in 1996.

not only in our Gallery in downtown She attends many classes and workshops
Henderson, but also in City Hall, Theater in and is one of the founding members of City
the Valley, Firelight Bar, as well as Las Vegas Lights Artists’ Co-op and Gallery in downtown
Little Theater, the Corner Gallery in the Arts Henderson since 2003. Having held many
Factory in Las Vegas. offices on the Board of Directors, Merle is

Tommy has four degrees; BFA, MFA, BSIT currently the Gallery Director of City Lights Art
and MBA, worked over thirty years in the Gallery at 3 E. Army Street, where her artwork
motion picture industry as a sign painter at is currently displayed.

Paramount Pictures, Warner Brothers, Sony, Merle’s usual choice of medium is oil, and
Stephen J. Cannel Productions and Universal prefers realism. She has painted many
Studios, working with directors, construction subjects, including animals, often using leather
coordinators, art directors, painters and as a support. She has found portraiture to be
sculptors. an exciting challenge, and plans to continue in

He uses his knowledge, experience and this genre. Her work has been purchased by
wisdom of working with people on large art collectors internationally.

projects, to network with artists to see their Merle invites all art lovers and collectors to
art, to promote City Lights Art Gallery and to visit the Gallery, where there is a marvelous
educate young artists. selection of genres, media and styles, all by

Tommy is an independent businessman local artists. The Co-op also hosts a bi-annual
with many of his own projects, is an active juried fine art show in March and October, and
member of the California Jaycees since 1980. sponsors scholarships for local art students to
His daughter suffered from Cystic Fibrosis attend art programs in college, giving out four
and died in 1987, and it has been his drive $1,000 scholarships this year. Our fundraising
since 1990 to raise funds for the treatment to support this program includes an Art Train;
and cure of this disease. a fun-filled event on the Southern Nevada
Railway in Boulder City on September 30th.

3 E. Army Street (Water Street District) Henderson, NV 89015
(702) 260-0300 • www.citylightsartgallery.com • www.facebook.com/citylightsartgallery

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 2

....The Art of....

Tommy Tucker Merle Blair Williams

“Road Rage Rascals” “Michief is My Name”

Acrylic on canvas Oil

“Hummingbird
Fountain”

Acrylic

“Magne�c Spaceship “Screaming Eagle” “At a Tangent”
Oil on Leather
Engine” Oil

Graphite on Paper

Our 2017 Scholarship Winners !!

Atsina Corrington

James Kanakama

Bailey Thurmond with Jadilla Sweet with
Tommy Tucker Tommy Tucker

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 3

From the Desk of pat wall

There is magic in the incredible offering of the fine art of everything coming to you
through the pages of this issue of our beautiful ARTISAN magazine. For a sampling,
journey back in time as you view the historic collection of possessions our forefathers
considered everyday life necessities, proudly displayed at the Southwest Diner in
historic Boulder City. Or, on September 30th, you can step aboard the aptly named
Art Train, departing from Boulder City at 5:30 pm for a memorable ride! Those of
you who want a home like no other will proudly display a home designed by famed
Designer to the Stars, Judith Wilson. Visitors to our great state will applaud the

ongoing Broadway Productions at the glorious Smith Center.

The eyes of the world are now trained on our beautiful state, thanks to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors
Authority, and their inclusion of the mobile flip version of ARTISAN on their very active website. We are
hearing from friends new and old from all over the world. No more is our lovely state thought of as just a place to
‘casino hop’. We are truly a jewel in the desert, with a fast growing community of visual and performing arts and
a demand for the fine art of everything else.

ARTISAN applauds Findlay Cadillac and Findlay Fiat for their generous support of City Lights Artists’
Co-op Scholarship Foundation. It is the upcoming youth who assure Nevada’s artistic future. Check out the
Little Red Fiat information at the bottom of this page. You could own this adorable driving statement, and at the
same time have a hand in promoting our talented young artists.

This is just a sampling of what’s inside the colorful pages of the Summer Issue of ARTISAN. Go to page 5
for a guide to this issue’s artistic adventure!

THE LITTLE RED FIAT

Lucky Lock Number Match Contest

You could win this Fiat from

210 N. Gibson Road - Henderson, NV 89014 - (702) 558-2600

Join us on the ArtTrain September 30, 2017

htp:/w .citylghtsarglery.comFormoredetailsgotothe

City Lights Art Gallery website:
www.citylightsartgallery.com

200 ENTRIES

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY

Inside

Page 18 Pages 10-11 Pages 24-25

Cover 12-13 20
Southwest Diner Boulder Dam Brewing Co. Jackpot Printing
Award-Winning Brewery All your printing needs
2-3
City Lights Art Gallery 14-15 21
JWI Design Group Findlay Cadillac of
Artistic Inspiration Luxury Interior Designer
4 Henderson
Judith Wilson Presents scholarship
Welcome from the Desk of 16-17
Publisher Pat Wall check
5 Eric Courtney 22-23
What’s Inside World Class Photography The Homestead
Table of Contents Photographer for Artisan at Boulder City
6-7 Downsizing is good
In the Spotlight 18 24-25
Southwest Diner Brian Gardner Bre� Maly
8-9 Art Investing
Art Encounter Entertainer 26-27
Extraordinaire Ar�s�c Iron
Fine Art Sales, Appraising Creative masterpieces
and Picture Framing 19 from iron
10-11 ArtTrain Back Cover
The Smith Center Brought to you by Findlay Cadillac
for the City Lights Art Gallery
Performing Arts Join us for a fun trip
September 30, 2017

6765 S. Eastern Ave, Suite 6 The ARTISAN Magazine
Las Vegas, NV 89119 Publisher Pat Wall, Tsunami Produc�ons
Phone: 702.873.1902 Crea�ve Director SDP Design
Fax: 702.873.5288 Shari Penny
Senior Editor
For Adver�sing Call 702.308.3467

The Artisan Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Reproductions of any kind is prohibited without the Publisher’s written permission. The Artisan is
published quarterly by Tsunami Productions. The afore-mentioned Publisher is not responsible for any advertising claims herein.

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine 5

In The Spotlight

By

Pat Wall

When you walk into Southwest Diner, one of Boulder City’s
favorite gathering places for locals and tourists alike, you will take a
step back in time.

Whether you are young and re-living stories told by older family members, or like some of us, remembering
our younger days, it’s wonderful to enjoy the historic collection that adorns the walls and floor space, that was
actually used through the years. Collectibles are preserved for future generations to enjoy. As you wait for your
order to be delivered, you know, without a doubt, that this is a place where Nevada’s rich history is carefully
preserved.

Cindy Ford and her talented family bring to their customers the fine art of delicious family dining and the fine
art of the collectibles that shaped the history of Nevada and Boulder City, in particular; a highly unusual
community that takes pride in presenting its businesses and dedicated art pieces adorning the picturesque
streets and walls of many of the one-of-a-kind shops. You find yourself reaching for your camera in order to
document this amazing place.

Cindy Ford and her children happily work together to bring to their guests lovingly
preserved recipes handed down from family members who actually used many of the art
forms on display, thus producing collectible art, through their day-to-day tasks. “Look!
There’s a stove like the one my grandmother used!” On any given day you can overhear
table mates commenting on the collection these memories evoke.

The ownership of Southwest Diner is a family of artists in their own right. Like a
conductor, Cindy carefully oversees the business that is directly responsible for Southwest
Diner’s twenty-six years of continuing success. The baking skills of Cindy’s son, Jake Ford,
have brought the delectable desserts he produces to a fine art level. Daughter, Sara Olson’s artistic talent is
displayed through her photographic skills produced on ARTISAN’s cover, and the two pages of this article.

Whether planning a visit to Boulder City as a tourist, or a special way to treat
friends and family as a local, put the Southwest Diner at the top of your list. There
are comments from guests, shown on these pages, who have enjoyed breakfast, lunch
and dinner, time and time again. An historic comment that goes along with the
displayed history is, “The proof of the pudding is in the eating.” As my dear
grandmother used to say, in her Southern accent,“That is a truism, sugar!”

Southwest Diner is located at 761 Nevada Highway, Boulder City, Nevada
Their telephone number is 702.293.1537 or visit them on the web at
www.southwestdinerbouldercity.com

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 6

HISTORIC COLLECTIBLES SHAPE NEVADA’S RICH ART HISTORY

“The menu was
eclectic and the
portions were
hearty. Their
“homemade” style
is a rare �ind. It’s a
must stop if you’re
hungry and near
Boulder City”

“Great food Artisan Magazine • 7
and service. The Patio
was beautiful. Side sauce for
fries was delicious! I de�initely want
to come back and try the pie!”

“Terra Cotta coffee cups and mason jars;
a trip to Boulder is like driving back in

time and Southwest Diner is always
my �irst stop!”

Summer Issue 2017

Art encounter

“Art encounter is the model for
every other service-oriented busi-
ness . . . . From my very first
visit, the professionalism of the
entire staff has impressed me.”

John P. (Professional
Entertainer

and art collector)
Las Vegas

FINE ART SALES & APPRAISALS

SALVADOR DALI • MARC CHAGALL • PABLO PICASSO .... AND MORE

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 8

Trusted for 25 Years

“You will not find better
Customer Service and a better
selection of fine art than what Art
encounter, Las Vegas, has to

offer.”
Adam L.
Sunrise, FL.

FINE ART FRAMING

“Your framing is spectacular
and the frames chosen really did
the job in making a masterpiece
a real masterpiece.”

Ron & Galina
Las Vegas

5720 S. Arville St. Suite 119 • Las Vegas, NV 89118 • 702.227.0220 • www.artencounter.com

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 9

Nearly 20 years ago, community
leaders convened at the Golden Nugget to
discuss a troubling issue: Las Vegas The Story Behind The Smith Center for the
remained the only city of its size in North Performing Arts

America without a world-class performing

arts center.

“I really felt the lack of that kind of facility

here,” recalls Dr. Keith Borman, one of the

stakeholders at the meeting.

This gathering kicked off a 17-year effort

to create The Smith Center for the

Performing Arts, a non-profit organization

that has transformed arts and culture in By
Southern Nevada. Alecia Westmoreland, Communications Manager

Recently celebrating its fifth anniversary The Smith Center for the Performing Arts
and exceeding 2 million ticket buyers, The

Smith Center has surpassed all expectations.
“This took so much collaboration and cooperation, it could only have happened in Las Vegas,” says Boman, now Vice-Chair on The Smith Center

Board.

UNEXPECTED PARTNERSHIPS
The project began with forming the Las Vegas Performing Arts Center Foundation and bringing on consultant Myron Martin - the future CEO
and President of The Smith Center.
“The Smith Center happened against all odds,” Martin says of fundraising for the center’s creation. This occurred through a combination
of public-private support. Playing a predominant role, the City of Las Vegas provided land, infrastructure and environmental clean-up for the
project. The City, State Legislature and Clark County further collaborated in a car rental tax to provide support. “(The tax) really helped fund
this project,” Martin says.
When the 2007 recession threatened to forestall construction, the Reynolds Foundation donated an additional $100 million to ensure the
center’s timely completion. The foundation’s combined gifts total one of the largest philanthropic donations in U.S. history. This secured the
center’s name as The Smith Center, after Fred Smith, Chair of the foundation. “The Smith Center is the Reynolds Foundation’s legacy,” Martin
says.

THE SMITH CENTER GALA TRANSFORMING THE ARTS IN LAS VEGAS

The Smith Center’s opening night on March 10, 2012 heralded a new
era for Southern Nevada. The core team had envisioned a facility that
would bring the arts of the world to Las Vegas, and introduce Las Vegas
artists to the world. The Smith Center has achieved this and more -
showing the world the arts are alive in Southern Nevada, beyond the Las
Vegas Strip.

The Smith Center’s successes include presenting artists from
across the nation and the world, including Alvin Alley, the Royal
Philharmonic Orchestra and Wynton Marsalis.

Each month it brings in Tony winning Broadway shows such as
“Wicked”, and has even launched two national Broadway tours. It has
even produced its own musical, “Idaho! The Comedy Musical.”

“The Smith Center has extended the street of Broadway all the way
to Las Vegas,” Martin says.

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 10

Each year, arts education experiences to local students
and teachers at no cost to participants, are provided by The
Smith Center. This includes presenting educational student
matinees to 370,673 students, and helping 25 Southern Nevada
schools develop sustainable theater programs through its
Disney Musicals in Schools program.

The Smith Center also offers training for thousands of
teachers in arts-based teaching methods.

“Imagine if we could do all that we’ve done in five years,
what the next 20 and the next 40 and the next 100 are going to
bring,” Martin stated.

DISNEY MUSICALS PERFORMANCE IN SCHOOLS

ORIGINAL LAS VEGAS CAST OF IDAHO! PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Credit: Erik Kabik - erikkabik.com
August:
Shows & Tickets Bert Bacharach - 8/4
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts in Las Vegas Something Rotten - 8/8 - 8/13
Peter Cincotti - 8/11
BUY ONLINE: Melissa Manchester - 8/19
www.thesmithcenter.com/shows-tickets YES - Featuring Jon Anderson,
Trevor Rabin, Rick Wakeman - 8/31
Phone: 702.749.2000
TTY users please call 800.326.6868 or dial 711 September:
The Beach Boys - 9/15
Open daily 10:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Lily Tomlin - 9/16
Except holidays Curious Incident - 9/19 - 9/24
Fourplay - 9/22 & 9/23
361 Symphony Park Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89106 The Sound Collage - 9/26
Go, Dog. Go! - 9/27
Summer Issue 2017 Bettye Lavette - 9/29 & 9/30

October:
The Little Mermaid - 10/3 - 10/8
Makana - 10/6 & 10/7
Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo - 10/11
Omar Sosa - 10/13 & 10/14
Femmes of Rock - 10/20 & 10/21
Stills & Collins - 10/21
iLuminate - 10/22
The King and I - 10/25 - 10/29

Artisan Magazine • 11

Beer IS a beautiful thing! You will definitely BEER IS A BEAUTIFUL THING
agree when you sample one of the many
carefully produced brews at the Boulder
Dam Brewing Co., created under the
watchful eye of skillful Brewmeister and
owner, Todd Cook, resulting in the very
best in award-winning brews. Enjoy
delicious dishes for lunch and dinner that
will make your next gathering of friends
and family a memorable one.

Boulder Dam Brewing features the largest
selection of Craft Beer on draft in Boulder
City.

Enjoy great toe-tapping music from some GOOD
of the area’s talented musicians who liven TO THE
up the weekend and will have you returning LAST
DROP
again and again

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 12

BIGGER ... BOLDER ... FRESHER

Largest Selection of Craft Beer On Draft in Boulder City

Named Ten Best Places to Have a Drink, Las Vegas Life Magazine

Named Best of Las Vegas 2009, Las Vegas Review Journal

Named Best Brewpub 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, Where The Locals Eat

Named Best of Nevada 2011, Nevada Magazine

Named the only true Beer Garden in Southern Nevada, Las Vegas Review Journal

453 Nevada Way For more information,
Boulder City, NV 89005 or to book a party, contact Todd Cook

(702) 243-BREW (702)243-2739
www.BoulderDamBrewing.com or [email protected]

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 13



DESIGNER TO THE STARS

Owner and Principal Designer of JUDITH WILSON INTERIOR DESIGN GROUP,
Judith Wilson, has a unique talent for creating designs which reflect the
personality of her Clients. “Ms.Wilson is recognized for her elegant design and
hands-on practice that includes providing clients with living spaces that flawlessly
unites their individual personality and the essense of the architecture.”

-Style Magazine

Why hire an Interior Designer for your

construction, remodel or design project?

“Hiring a designer can help you to avoid costly mistakes and will not only help
you save money, but can increase the value of your design project, whether it’s
new construction or remodel of an existing structure,” says Judith Wilson.

“A designer can give you a professional assessment of your potential project and
build a stronger bridge between you and your architect or contractor early on.
This can head off design misses in your overall plan and is critical in managing
time and money. The order of things in a design plan is key to the success of
the project.”

Wilson adds that “Thinking outside of the box is what designers do all day long. For a complimentary guide on How to ask the right
Designers are trained to think differently to give you a WOW factor of the questions when interviewing a prospective
project. I spend time interviewing my clients in detail to find out how they Interior Designer, and additional information on how
want to live in their space. I need to know their lifestyle in order to help them to know the difference between an Interior Designer
plan the layout of their home.” and an Interior Decorator, please email your request to
“Interior design is a skill and an art that will enhance the space and the quality [email protected]
of your life in that space. Hiring a pro raises the level of that experience and
makes your house a home. A designer can help you tell your visual story. I
can’t think of a better reason to hire a designer than that!” says Wilson.

From blueprints and space planning to custom cabinetry, furniture and drapery, Judith Wilson creates spaces
that reflect her clients’ personalities and tastes ... Designed Exclusively For You

JUDITH WILSON INTERIOR DESIGN GROUP • 310-272-6922 • [email protected]

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 15

ERIC Eric pursues his passion for photography
COURTNEY
every chance he gets, taking advantage of the
PHOTOGRAPHER many photographic opportunities here in the
Southwest United States. On his many road
trips in search of great shots, he just stops and
shoots whatever catches his eye.

Although he prefers unenhanced photos,
he recently experimented with electronic
manipulation, an endeavor that earned his
“Desert Wave” an award in the spring 2017
Juried Show at City Lights Art Gallery.

AWARD-WINNING “DESERT WAVE”

“PLAY IT AGAIN” “LAS VEGAS FARMACIA”

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 16

“ONCE A YEAR” Eric Courtney

Henderson, NV * 773.209.7426 * [email protected]

“SAY CHEESE”

“EROSION CAN BE BEAUTIFUL”

“MINERALS”
LAS VEGAS STRIP PANORAMA

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 17

Brian has been a drummer BRIAN GARDNER
for 47 years
Performer

Brian Gardner has been an entertainer for over 47 years.
Originally from Northern California, he has performed over 250
�mes for the re�rement homes there, as well as in the Las
Vegas/Henderson area. Brian moved here 3 years ago to work for
his son’s company, Franklin Document Services - an adver�ser
and supporter of Ar�san magazine.

His desire to perform for senior ci�zens is best described in his
own words, “The individuals I entertain were responsible for
building up this country. I feel they deserve a thanks for all they
have done.”

Brian’s Father played a role in his caring a�tude towards others and Performing his One-Man
our community. “My Father was a Scout leader for over 50 years. He Music-Comedy-Variety Show at

always made us leave any campsite we a retirement home
had used in better shape than when we
arrived. I hope to leave this world in be�er
shape than before I came into it - through
community work and the re�rement
performances I do,” Gardner remarked.

Brian’s performances are well received

because he engages seniors during his

show. He passes out colorful maracas to

a�endees who would like to play along,

and encourages the residents to sing

along. Humor and sight gags are also

definitely a part of his show, just like his

hero, Victor Borge, an interna�onally Brian with his guitar dubbed:
known (humorist) piano player. Tobacco Road

Brian’s performances have been

responsible for some miraculous changes in

seniors who have experienced his show. “I

cannot imagine a be�er personal feeling

than to have posi�vely impacted another

person through my music and comedy . But

Brian celebrating the 250th that IS the power of music, comedy and
performance of his
laughter,” stated Brian with a big smile.
One-Man-Music-Comedy-
Variety Show Brian and “Big Red” performing live Brian performs locally in a group he
started, called Manzanita

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine 18
Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 18

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 19

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 20

THE GENEROSITY OF FINDLAY CADILLAC

Photo by Eric Courtney

Reading left to right:
L.J. Harness, Marketing Director for Findlay Cadillac, Henderson, NV
Tommy Tucker, President of City Lights Artists’ Co-op, Henderson, NV

John Saksa, General Manager, Findlay Cadillac, Henderson, NV

Tommy Tucker, President of City Lights Artists’ Co-op, receiving a $5,000
Scholarship check from Findlay Cadillac of Henderson, NV to benefit

talented and qualified high school seniors from Southern Nevada.

THANK YOU !

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 21

THE HOMESTEAD
AT BOULDER CITY

There comes a time when we all have to re-evaluate our lifestyle.
This can be for many reasons, but for most the primary cause of
downsizing is need-related. Americans tend to overpay for things and
services, and at a certain age, services and things stop becoming
important, and lifestyle and health become pivotal factors.

Think about the need for a family home during retirement. For
instance, there is the liability of owning a large home. Consider the
following: The expenses associated with keeping up a pool, a lawn,
maintenance and taxes, and the HOA fees - these can be thousands of
dollars a month.

Downsizing isn’t about losing things or services, it is about

freedom and independence. The cost of living a great life or the cost

MIKE FOX of keeping up a lifestyle the better served you ten or twenty years ago,

Resident Director of has to be addressed at some point.

The Homestead When people think about downsizing to condo living, independent
at Boulder City living communities or assisted living communities they are not giving up

what they have, but breaking free from financial burdens associated with things or services they no

longer need. Imagine cutting these costs and using the saved cash to pay for services like laundry,

housekeeping and dining, or private medical management.

We are afraid to lose what we know, and often we fear change - but why, especially when change
can save us money and upgrade our lifestyles. When it’s time to give up the family home and all the
bills and liability associate with it, you’re stepping closer into a new-found freedom. You have
more options and more cash.

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 22

It’s your life.
We’re here to
help you live it

At The Homestead at Boulder City, experience the sheer freedom of independent living and
the concierge lifestyle. Add the comfort of knowing personal care is available if you need
it. From gentle medication reminders to higher levels of health care, our expertly trained
staff delivers individualized, in-home care through assisted living and memory support
options.

An array of amenities, chef-inspired dining and neighbors who soon become friends, make
The Homestead an appealing place to call home. We’re dedicated to learning how you like
to live each day, and passionate about supporting your independence, health and dignity.

Special Features:
• Registered nurse coordination of personal care levels
• Studio, one or two-bedroom private apartment homes

in a convenient, single-level neighborhood
• Three daily, chef-prepared meals served restaurant style
• Personal pendant urgent call system with GPS
• Weekly housekeeping and linen change
• Medication set-up includes ordering, and communication

with physician, rehab therapy team, pharmacy and family
• Personal care such as dressing, grooming, bathing and using the bathroom
• Life enrichment includes educational and spiritual programs, social activities,

therapy dog program, live music and more

Come visit The Homestead. Call today. A-rated community!
We look forward to meeting you! State of Nevada

The Homestead at Boulder City The Homestead is a Volunteers of America
1401 Medical Park Drive Senior Living and Care Community in
Boulder City, NV 89005 Partnership with Boulder
702.294.8720 City Hospital
homesteadbouldercity.org

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 23

Fine Art
An Essential Purchase
by
Brett Maly

Everyone should collect art. Art is cool. Art makes you think. Art makes you smile. Art
inspires. Best of all, art is one-of-a-kind (like you!) Of course, it’s easy to get intimidated
when you read about paintings by artists like Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat
selling for 100 million dollars, but being an art collector doesn’t require an Armani suit
and a bidding paddle at Christie’s. Being an art collector simply requires an empty wall
and an open mind.

My first art purchase was a $20 abstract poster by Russian artist Wassily Kandinsky. A
half-dozen moves, jobs and pets later, it still hangs prominently in my home. People often
ask me about art as an investment. For thirty years, that poster has brightened my wall
and made me smile. Talk about a good investment!

OK, I’m being a bit glib, but
ultimately it doesn’t matter if you
collect posters, paintings, sculptures
or photography, you should always
buy what you like. Don’t obsess
over whether or not it’s a good
investment financially, or if it
matches your throw pillows - art
should make you smile, think or
otherwise react. If your art does
that, then it was a worthwhile
purchase.

BRETT, SANDEE PITNICK AND JERRY LEWIS

Brett K. Maly is the fine art appraiser for Art encounter. Maly frequently appears as an art expert on radio and
television. This includes a recurring role (since 2010) as art expert for the hit show Pawn Stars, on the History

Channel, where he has discussed everything from fine art valuation to its collection and preservation.

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 24

At the risk of being glib again, the best way to determine what kind of art appeals to you
is to view some. Just like those first bites of ice cream or broccoli your mom gave you as an
infant, artistic tastes are cultivated through exposure; not pictures in a book or onliine, but
the way art was intended to be viewed - in person. This could be an emerging artist’s
paintings at the local art fair, or a Master’s exhibition at a National museum, but the
important thing is to experience it. Of course, the more exposure you have, the more acute
your artistic senses will become. Who knows? Just like that broccoli you spit out as a child,
you may eventually acquire a taste for art you didn’t like at first (or at least learn to tolerate
it!)

To that end, reputable art galleries like Art
encounter, which offer well-regarded artists at a
variety of price points, can serve as a springboard
for the neophyte collector. A trusted gallery can
help match a collector with appropriate art, as
well as provide insight regarding an artwork’s
technique and history. It’s a “value added” service
that is both literal and figurative - enhancing both
the personal experience of collecting art, as well as
adding literal value to the works through proper
vetting and authentication.

THE POCKET PICKER FOR FINE ART
by BRETT MALY

CURTIS DOWLING FROM THE TV SHOW, Since I referenced value, I suppose
TREASURE DETECTIVES WITH BRETT I should mention that fine art has an
average annual return value of 10%
over the past four decades, and has
become one of the safer financial
investments you can make. Much
more than that, however, art is an
investment in your daily quality of life.
Art is an investment in the future of
your children and the preservation of
your culture.

ART IS AN INVESTMENT YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO MISS OUT ON

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 25

IRON WORKS Veteran Owned - American Made
Serving the Las Vegas Valley since 1971
State-of-the-art 33,000 sq.ft. ornamental iron

gallery and custom fabrication facility
We sell and custom fabricate many kinds

of decorative iron work
The Showroom features various types of

wrought iron and finishes

HOURS OF OPERATION IN SHOWROOM
9 Am To 7 Pm Monday - Friday
9 Am to 4 Pm Saturday

The Criss Angel Home

WE HAVE DONE WORK FOR Criss Angel, Frank Marino,The Liberace Mansion,
Bruce & Barbara Lee Woollen. Oscar Goodman and many more.
We have worked on several of the Hotels and Casinos

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 26

THE JOURNEY FROM IRON TO A WORK OF ART

ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL PROJECT COMPLETED “Working with Artistic Iron Works
was an absolute pleasure. Not only

did they do a wonderful job
throughout my entire home, both
indoor and outdoor, but their staff
was extremely professional - but
more importantly, extremely reliable
in getting the job done and making

it look so beautiful. Thanks!”
Frank Marino, President

Her-Larious Entertainment &
Frank Marino Enterprises, Inc.

FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES
WE WILL BEAT OR MATCH ANY APPLES TO APPLES

PROPOSAL !!!

WE WELD ALL OF OUR WORK
AND CAN DO ANYTHING !!
IF YOU CAN DREAM IT,WE CAN BUILD IT !!

105 W. CHARLESTON BLVD. • LAS VEGAS, NV 89102 • License #0031909A
702.387.8688 • Fax 702.387.8942 • www.ArtisticIron.com • email: [email protected]

Summer Issue 2017 Artisan Magazine • 27

AGILE PERFORMANCE

The XT5 responds instantly to the elements,

and to you.

FINDLAY CADILLAC

ABOUT US LOCATION SALES SERVICE
We didn't win Dealer of the Year just because we sell Findlay Cadillac (877) 638-4163 (877) 638-4239
a lot of cars. At Findlay, we ensure each of our customers 993 Autoshow Dr, Mon-Sat 8am-9pm Mon-Sat 8am-6pm
is treated to an exceptional ownership experience. That Henderson, NV 89014 Sun CLOSED Sun CLOSED
means providing a service department worthy of the
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