The Latest with Colibri Gallery

Colibri Gallery has undergone some evolutions, so we’re shining a light on the past, present, and future of what’s ahead for this gem in Morgan Hill’s art scene!

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PAST

Located on Monterey Road and First Street, Colibri Gallery combines a curated selection of fine art, an open and engaging environment, and workshops taught by esteemed local and regional artists. But it wasn’t always Colibri Gallery! The space was formerly Colibri Art & Framing and housed the custom framing and design shop. In 2020, Colibri added the fine art component to the downtown space, operating as both a frame design center and gallery. The actual framing work took place at their workshop at the southern end of town, but customer-facing service took place downtown.

Inside the Colibri Gallery space downtown

PRESENT

As of this August 2022, the framing service has relocated to the framing workshop for a streamlined process in one space and a 100% dedicated gallery at the downtown location. Colibri Art & Framing is celebrating their Grand Opening Tuesday, August 30th through Saturday, September 3rd, 2022 at Caputo Drive.

Meanwhile, the downtown Colibri Gallery exhibits fresh, joyful, and authentic artwork created by Bay Area artists and beyond. The bright interior and streamlined displays allow the colorful 2D and 3D works of art to pop. Thoughtfully arranged, the tones and patterns of the pieces playfully complement one another and provide an uncrowded viewing experience. Currently on exhibit are acrylic and oil paintings, photography, prints, ceramics, and jewelry. Fun fact: one of the jewelry makers is an artist named Morgan Hill! As part of her line titled “Bad Habits,” she makes cheerfully colorful earrings, bangles, and necklaces of Holly wood, paint, brass and sterling silver.

*“Bad Habits” jewelry by artist Morgan Hill Creative*

Emerging out of pandemic-related restrictions, Colibri Gallery is now hosting seasonal gallery receptions, providing opportunities for fans and the art-curious to mingle and engage with the artists on display. Gallery Director, Ellie Honl and Assistant/Curator, Brie Pena (both artists themselves) are invigorating the gallery’s programming by sharing new and different forms of art to a broader audience. The Gallery has even more up its sleeve, with forthcoming workshops (check them out below!) taught by esteemed artists of unique mediums like botanical cyanotype and hand block printing. The Gallery is also an advocate for the local art community and a supportive partner for public art events like the Plein Air Paint Out and Morgan Hill Open Studios event, taking place in October and November, respectively. Working with the Library and Cultural Arts Committee for the City of Morgan Hill. both events had successful launches in and enthusiastic return participation for this fall.

FUTURE

So what’s next for Colibri Gallery? Owners Dan and Kathy McCrainie will soon break ground on the Edes Building, a completely new fine art gallery on the former site of the Edes Grocery Store and pop-up park in downtown Morgan Hill. The McCrainie’s architecture and interior design partner, KTGY announced the building permit approval for the 6,800 square foot project in May 2022. The project is a two story, mixed-use art gallery, wine bar, and cafe designed to display art, host classes & events, and activate a key downtown pedestrian intersection. The building will draw from the site’s historical significance and utilize sustainable materials. “Dan McCranie is a pioneer that is elevating the arts and culture experience in Morgan Hill. We are fortunate for his vision, commitment, and passion for the arts,” said City of Morgan Hill Assistant City Manager, Edith Ramirez, in KTGY’s press release.

We’re excited to see Colibri Gallery and the Morgan Hill art community continue blossoming. We hope you will check out the gallery space and attend one of their fantastic art events or workshops! Schedule and hours below.