Sorting through the Finest Art Galleries of La Jolla, California

By: Blythe Sinclair

La Jolla has become a focal point of all FINE things: the views, the art, the culture, the homes. The refined beach town of La Jolla is mostly frequented by tourists and locals alike, all coming to admire the cove, the wildlife, and the art scene. Art has always been an element of "the Jewel of San Diego’s" culture, thanks to the numerous art galleries that line Downtown La Jolla. All genres of art can be found within these notable galleries, featuring artists who range from the local artist to the international artist. Here is a guide to the finest Galleries in La Jolla.

Contemporary Fine Arts Gallery

This gallery represents internationally acclaimed artists and features mediums of art including sculptures, paintings, and limited edition works. Each month brings in new pieces and new artists depending on the exhibitions and events being held.  (7946 Ivanhoe Avenue)

Mangelsen: Images of Nature Gallery

This brightly colored space on Girard Avenue serves as a sampler of noted nature photographer Thomas D. TMangelsen’s work. Mangelsen has been photographing nature and wildlife for over 40 years, attributing his love for wildlife to his upbringing in Nebraska, as well as his post-college years in the Rocky Mountains. He has won numerous awards for his work over the past few years and has had his photos published in highly-regarded magazines including National Geographic, Life, BBC Wildlife, and Nature’s Best Photography.

Mangelsen: Images of Nature Gallery in La Jolla has been open for over 25 years, and showcases solely photography by Mangelsen. Art consultant Tee On declares that "new photos come in about once a week depending on how many pieces are sold," and are "pretty affordable compared to some of the other galleries" around La Jolla. The Mangelsen gallery has a variety of formats in which the photographs can be purchased, including canvas, glass, and metal print pieces. Every one of Mangelsen’s photographs capture a moment in time in the lives of animals and the unique environments they thrive within, while, at the same time, displaying his perspective of nature and conservation. Each hand-signed photo is released as a limited edition, and comes with a unique number— assigned by the artist— and a certificate of authenticity. This gallery is a must-see of the shops all along Girard and within "The Jewel" of San Diego.  (7916 Girard Avenue)

"A New Day" Lake Clark National Park, Alaska

Madison Gallery

This art gallery is dedicated to representing artists of all levels and professionals who contribute to the overall high standard of fine art that is evoked here. Art of all mediums can be found here, ranging from Robert Montgomery’s light poems to Carole Feuerman’s life-size sculptures.  (1055 Wall Street)

Thumbprint Gallery

This is a relatively new gallery to La Jolla, at only nine years. Despite its recent founding, it is a hit with all kinds of people due to its dedication to representing local, national, and international artists, all of whom create pieces which bridge on contemporary, pop-culture surrealism. Each exhibition features new artists whose art applies to that month’s theme, creating a new crop of pieces for viewing each month or so.  (920 Kline Street, Suite 104)

Joseph Bellows Gallery

This gallery dedicates its space for bi-monthly exhibitions of both contemporary and vintage photography. The gallery features numerous photographers, indiscriminate of their professional level. Photographers are labeled as either 20th century, 19th century, or contemporary, and have photographs available for viewing.  (7661 Girard Avenue)

Africa and Beyond Art Gallery

This is the place to go for authentic, beautiful creations from various cultures of Africa. This gallery has been around for almost 30 years, and displays multiple types of art, including stone sculptures and traditional artifacts. Each piece is hand-selected and brought back from Africa, creating a link between the ancient past and the modern culture.   (1250 Prospect Street)

Ledgend Gallery: Fine Art of La Jolla

This Gallery always has a creative window display that draws pedestrians in from outside. Located on Prospect Street, this fun gallery faces out towards the beautiful cove, and features various formats of fine art from a select number of artists. On any given day, attendees can view pieces of art from three main artists who are consistently represented at Legends Gallery: Mackenzie Thorpe, Martin Beau Pre, and Theodor Seuss Geisel— more commonly known as renowned children’s author, Dr. Seuss. Each item showcased in the gallery is available for purchase, with prices ranging from $300 at the lowest, and $50,000 at the highest. Gallery director Roree Mayhew claims that the gallery "tends to get about one new piece per month," and also welcome both Thorpe and Beau to their gallery about once each year. Visit Legends for a gallery which juxtaposes the fun and the fine aspects of art.  (1205 Prospect Street, Suite B)