Business Details
20 Years
experience
Contemporary Art Gallery & Studio in Philadelphia
Founded in 2006 by Tina Rocha and Michael Kowbuz, Cerulean Arts has grown from a single gallery space into a vibrant arts hub with eight exhibition areas and a dedicated classroom. Our mission centers on connecting local artists with collectors while fostering creative growth through exhibitions, retail opportunities, and educational programming. With roots at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts dating back to 1996, we combine decades of curatorial expertise with hands-on artistic experience to serve Philadelphia's creative community. The gallery's expansion into adjacent properties has enabled us to host diverse exhibitions featuring regional talent while maintaining a curated selection of fine art and handmade goods.Our educational programs emphasize skill development in drawing, painting, and mixed media through structured classes and collaborative workshops. The gallery's name reflects our commitment to creating spaces where artistic expression and community engagement converge. We maintain rigorous standards for artist selection while prioritizing accessibility for emerging collectors. The retail component showcases carefully curated home decor and jewelry that aligns with our contemporary aesthetic. Our exhibition calendar includes themed shows that explore material innovation and technical mastery. The gallery actively supports local artists through mentorship opportunities and collaborative projects.
Services
Art Exhibitions
Studio Classes
Retail Gallery
Workshops
Artist Mentorship
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer a vibrant community for local artists and art enthusiasts
- Our gallery spaces showcase carefully curated contemporary exhibitions
- We provide structured art education for all skill levels
- Our retail selection features unique handmade home decor and jewelry
- We maintain strong connections to Philadelphia's art community
Services
Art Exhibitions
Cerulean Arts curates rotating exhibitions featuring regional contemporary artists. Our eight gallery spaces host solo and group shows that explore diverse media and conceptual approaches. The exhibition program emphasizes accessibility while maintaining professional presentation standards.
Studio Classes
We offer structured art instruction for adults in drawing, painting, and mixed media. Classes accommodate various skill levels with both beginner-friendly introductions and advanced technique development. Our educators emphasize technical mastery while encouraging personal artistic expression.
Retail Gallery
The retail space features carefully curated contemporary jewelry, home decor, and accessories. All items are handmade by regional artists using quality materials. The selection changes seasonally to reflect current artistic trends and techniques.
Workshops
Hands-on workshops explore specific artistic techniques and materials. Participants work directly with experienced instructors to develop new skills in controlled environments. Sessions include group critiques and collaborative projects.
Artist Mentorship
We connect emerging artists with established professionals for career guidance. The program includes portfolio reviews, exhibition preparation, and marketing strategy sessions. Mentees gain access to our network of collectors and curators.
People
Tina Rocha
Co-Founder
Co-founder with extensive museum shop management experience. Graduated from Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Focuses on artist relations and retail operations. Has directed gallery programming since 2006.
Michael Kowbuz
Co-Founder
Co-founder and PAFA MFA graduate. Oversees educational programming and studio operations. Manages artist mentorship initiatives. Has taught art classes since the gallery's founding in 2006.
Questions
What types of art exhibitions do you host?
We feature contemporary works from regional artists in rotating solo and group exhibitions. Our programming emphasizes material innovation and technical mastery across various media.
Do you offer art classes for beginners?
Yes, we provide structured classes in drawing, painting, and mixed media for all skill levels. Instructors offer personalized guidance while covering fundamental techniques.
Can local artists submit work for consideration?
We maintain an open submission process for Philadelphia-area artists. Selected works appear in our rotating exhibitions and retail space based on curatorial review.
What retail items are available?
Our curated selection includes handmade jewelry, home decor, and accessories created by regional artists. Items change seasonally to reflect current artistic trends.
Reviews (4)
Justin Lowe
Oct 05, 2021
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Wonderful gallery featuring local artists! They also have online art classes taught by talented folks that are worth checking out.
James Miller
May 28, 2021
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Such wonderful, caring, efficient gallery owners. Always prompt and knowledgeable on artists and inventory. Truely hospitable.
Ellen Perry
Aug 23, 2018
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Art gallery near Father Divine Hotel and an interesting part of the city..some art from their cooperative and visisting artists ..nice gift shop..
Elizabeth Wagner
Jul 11, 2018
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Very nice gallery, a gem hidden in the city! Lots to see here! It looks small on the outside, but there are several galleries within. Plus, an awesome gift shop! A must see!
