Artist to open gallery at home in BL

Ben Lomond photographer Frank Leonard recently completed an art gallery on his property and will host a grand-opening party Nov. 9.
Originally from San Francisco, Leonard retired in 2008 and moved to Ben Lomond where he began to work on photography full time. He specializes in figure photography in nature, but he said the gallery will also display the work of local artists who show interest.
“I’m tickled about not having to schlep all over the county with my work,” Leonard said.
The gallery, which he has named the Santa Cruz County Art Gallery, is at his home, 10295 Riverside Drive, in Ben Lomond. The 6-by-20-foot space, coupled with a 9-by-14 space he uses as a workshop, has hanging banners like a museum and special lighting.
Leonard will open the gallery for special events.
“For the first time, I can step into that space where I’m an artist,” Leonard said. “It feels like I’ve arrived.”
The grand-opening celebration will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 9. It will feature Leonard’s photography, ceramic figure casting by Richard Smith, wood-carved figures by Bill Hackett, wine from Hallcrest Vineyards and music by Mary Stark.
For information: www.santacruzcountyartgallery.com or 345-5496.