Artel Gallery — Attraction in Pensacola

In the elegant former courthouse right in the middle of the good downtown vibe, Artel is a prime example of why Pensacola is such an appealing city. A gallery (items for sale, some not) with quality displays by talented artists.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS: "We’re a non-profit run entirely by volunteers. Artel Gallery was founded in 1993 to foster appreciation for art in its purest form without concern for commercial marketability. Its mission is to provide the Northwest Florida region with a continuous forum for quality experimental and contemporary art exhibitions and programs dedicated to the enrichment and education of the community.

Whether by challenging artists to interpret themes or by providing educational programs, Artel Gallery seeks to evoke a creative response and inspire artists to create work that is innovative and provocative in technique, media and/or content. Neither a co-op or a retail gallery, Artel is an experimental institution, the only one of its kind in Northwest Florida."

As a traveler, I go to big and small galleries all over the country. Few have presented me with the variety of truly interesting works of all media found at Artel. This is my third year of an extended stay in the area, and every year there has been really great stuff on display.

On Wednesday and Saturday evenings from 5 to 7, there is an OPEN ACOUSTIC MUSIC JAM - all are welcome to participate with an instrument, with their voice, or to listen while they browse the gallery. Separated by proper social distancing, participants in last Saturday's jam included Irish acapella vocals from the 1400's, ukelele swing tunes, old time fiddle tunes, delta blues, country - you get the idea.

Artel may not be the only one like it in the country, but it certainly is a role model of what a dedicated volunteer group can accomplish with the help of smart city policy. ...

Artel had a wonderful show presenting masks of all types made by local schools. This is my daughter's piece. She attends Washington high school and she placed honorable mention in the high school category. The gallery is very supportive of these young artists and we are so grateful to have such a lovely space to showcase their work. Artel always presents a quality show and it is a wonderful experience when we visit. Thank you, Artel, for making sure our children have a place to let their creative...

Pensacola has made a real effort to promote and expand art venues, and Artel Gallery is a fine complement to the nearby city art museum. Overall a contemporary vibe, with strong pieces a the beach genre. But there are also avant garde pieces that are arrestingly good. Located in the lobby level of the county offices on Palafox, it's easily accessible from the city's entertainment district. Add it to the list of things to do when you're...