Galleries Galore

It seems as if there’s an art gallery on every corner in this fair city. Even if you’re not a collector or you have no intention of taking home a painting, stop anyway. Soak up the colors. Ask questions, and quite simply, enjoy the view. Celebrated painter West Fraser, whose work is featured at Helena Fox Fine Art on Queen Street, says artists here are driven to capture the city’s authenticity and character. “It still takes my breath away sometimes when you get that late afternoon golden light coming through the narrow streets and hitting the corner of a building or the top of a steeple,” he muses. “It’s just a beautiful city.”

The number of galleries continues to grow, with many of the finest located on Broad Street and in the historic French Quarter. If you’re lucky enough to be in town the first weekend of the month, plan to attend a First Friday Art Walk. From 5 to 8 p.m., many gallery owners serve food and wine, making art a party. More galleries participate in peak months--March-June, October, and December. Pick up a brochure at a participating gallery, or visit www.charlestongalleryrow.com and www.frenchquarterarts.com for more information.