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BELEN—An artist and business owner is hoping his new gallery and studio — MONZO Interior Accessories — will add and accentuate the art scene in the Hub City.
Mark Rockey opened his new gallery in mid November and invites the public to enjoy the new space as well as fellow artists to join in his endeavor in showing and selling their creations.
As you walk into the new gallery, bursts of color attract your attention in different works of art hung on the walls while custom-made furniture throughout the space peaks your interest. Rockey says it’s a compilation of seven painters, one ceramicist and himself, a stone and woodworker.
“What I offer is really great exposure to artists here in the area,” Rockey said. “They put an immense amount of intellect in their artwork.”
Along with other artists, Jan Pacifico, a local ceramicist and Tomé Art Gallery owner, is collaborating with Rockey and creating unique ceramic bowls and sinks to coincide with Rockey’s custom bathroom vanities.
Rockey’s woodworking pieces, such as a assortment of tables, are made with a variety of materials from walnut and cedar to stone and steal.
“I can put any kind of stone, I can do it in wood or steal, and I can lacquer any color they want that will fit in their homes,” Rockey said.
“A lot of homes have a niche somewhere — a little spot where you can sit, relax, have a glass of wine or just stare into space. That’s what I’m trying to do by developing a concept to make it their own personal, customized space.”
Rockey, who just moved from Belen to Albuquerque last month, said he’s committed to bringing art and providing a space for local artists with MONZO Interior Accessories.
Collaborating with other creatives in providing an assortment of artwork — from landscapes and abstracts to furniture and metal work — is what Rockey enjoys. He hopes the public will enjoy it as well.
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While Rockey understands there isn’t a lot of disposable income in the area to spend on art, he knows there is a high level of interest in art. He says MONZO Interior Accessories is a place to shrink that gap and provide affordable art.
“A gallery isn’t just there for people to walk into and see all the latest furniture and artwork. It should be a place of education, perpetuating the introduction of artistic achievements to those who are new to art or to certain techniques,” Rockey said. “Making classes and resources available to all ages of those who want to learn more about art, who want to discover their own inner art abilities and to share with their family and friends. That’s what makes art a ‘movement.’”
MONZO Interior Accessories, which will be offering classes this spring to adults and children, is currently open from 12-5 p.m., Saturdays, and is located at 209 S. Main St., Belen. For information, call 505-525-1092.
