Meet Paige Wery

Today we’d like to introduce you to Paige Wery.

Hi Paige, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
As part of the larger Tierra del Sol Foundation, the Tierra del Sol Gallery exhibits work created in our thriving art studios. Over thirty years ago, Tierra del Sol started showing and selling art from their studios through First Street Gallery in Claremont, CA.

In 2019, a space dedicated to the artists of Tierra del Sol was opened in Los Angeles with a focus on expanding the gallery’s programming and connecting the foundation’s artists with a global audience. Since then, Tierra del Sol Gallery has debuted artists at the Felix Art Fair, Frieze, and NADA Miami as well as partnered with a dynamic range of organizations, including Undefeated, Amazon, Netflix, and Transformative Arts. Tierra del Sol Gallery has propelled countless artists into the world of contemporary art. All sales go directly to supporting the artists as well as the foundation, which provides studio space, career support, and materials for artists to craft their work.

Tierra del Sol Foundation is a not-for-profit founded in 1971. We champion inclusion and value for all individuals with disabilities through creative pathways to employment, education, and the arts. A strong and vibrant community is one in which all of its members contribute to the strengths and assets for the common good. Tierra’s vision is that all people live productive and personally meaningful lives, regardless of the notion of disability, as neighbors, co-workers, and contributors to the economic, civic, and cultural vitality of the community.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For the most part, the path to growth and success has been a relatively smooth one at the Tierra del Sol Foundation, thanks to the exceptional artworks produced by the artists. As the Director, my job has been made much easier by the riveting works of art created here. Early on, the foundation used to exhibit at the Outsider Art Fair in New York City. . While it was a valuable experience, we decided to shift our focus and apply for contemporary art fairs, and this decision has proven to be successful. Currently, we are entering our second year at NADA Miami and our third year at Felix Los Angeles. Tierra-supported artists have found themselves in major collections, both public and private, which is a testament to their talent and work ethic. While we have continued to progress and evolve, over bumps and struggles, the foundation is continuing to strive for an arts community that is more inclusive and welcoming one day at a time.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My professional life has been centered on giving space to underrepresented artists. Twenty years ago, I dropped out of art school and took over a now-defunct Los Angeles coffee shop to show artworks by homeless artists that I met on the Venice Beach boardwalk. The gratification of working with traditionally underrepresented artists, showing and helping them to sell their work, led me to where I am today. From curating shows in my home, in restaurants, flea markets, and craft fairs to opening The Good Luck Gallery (2014-2019), all of this has prepared me and given me the experience of where I am today, the current Gallery Director and Curator at Tierra del Sol’s Gallery.

What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was an athlete, with a huge emphasis on sports placed upon my upbringing. This instilled in me a strong work ethic, teamwork skills, and the ability to handle setbacks gracefully. These qualities, along with practical skills like navigating interpersonal relationships, advocating for myself and my community, and learning when to utilize my support system, have proven valuable in my role as the Gallery Director of the Tierra del Sol Foundation, where I work closely with artists and navigate the challenges of the art world.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.tierradelsolgallery.org
• Instagram: @tierradelsolgallery