New gallery opens in Portola Valley New gallery opens in Portola Valley (October 12, 2005)

By Jane Knoerle

Almanac Lifestyles Editor

These are exciting times for Jessica and Frank Lonergan of Woodside. They are opening a contemporary art gallery at 888 Portola Road in Portola Valley with an exhibit of "New Works by Robert Buelteman."

A reception for the artist will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, October 20.

Local ties abound. Jessica is the daughter of Susan and Ernie Collins of Woodside. Rob Buelteman grew up in Woodside. The new art gallery is located on the previous site of Jan's Valley Inn and, before that, Maloney's Bar.

"888 Portola Road is the ideal location for us," says Ms. Lonergan. "The building's rural setting and rustic appeal serve as a perfect backdrop for viewing world-class contemporary art in a relaxed friendly environment."

The Lonergans began collecting art together in 2000 after seeing the collection of Harry W. and Mary Margaret Anderson of Atherton at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

They first collected the works of Bay Area artists at "salons" at their home in San Francisco and then in Woodside, as an alternative to the traditional art gallery scene.

In 2004 they founded SPUR Projects to show contemporary art in a public space in the relaxed style of their "salons."

Michelle Townsend is the gallery's director. A graduate of Hamilton College with a master's degree from Stanford University, her last position was as a community arts specialist at Bedford Gallery in Walnut Creek.
Robert Buelteman

Since 1999 Mr. Buelteman has made photographic images without the use of cameras, lenses or computers. Using photographic paper, plant life, and electrical current, he produces portraits of plants and flowers in glowing blazes of color.

The SPUR exhibit will feature selections from his "Through the Green Fuse" portfolio recently acquired and exhibited at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.

The show also show work from the "Sangro de Christo" series that Mr. Buelteman made during his residency at the Santa Fe Institute in New Mexico last summer.

He has published nine photographic portfolios during his 25 years behind the camera.
INFORMATION

"New Works by Robert Buelteman" continues through November 23 at the gallery. Valet parking will be provided for the opening night party on Thursday, October 20. For information, call 529-2040.

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