OUR STORY….OUR MISSION

A Means of Expression has been “a work in progress” since its doors were opened in 2001. What began as a small open studio for owner and artist Annette Valletto, has grown into a gallery featuring some of the most highly collected artists on the international art scene.

While showing her own paintings in California, New York and Florida, Annette has had opportunities to view innumerable artists in venues ranging from regional to international. As a result she has developed not only an eye for quality work, but a strong sense of discernment for those artists that are being or have the potential to become highly collected. With a background in management, Annette has combined her business experience, artistic talent, and strong faith to develop a gallery on a mission to deliver more than paintings, pottery and jewelry.

“After opening the gallery I was hesitant to show my own paintings. I enjoyed showing the work of other artists, but when it came to mine I wanted to say ‘this is where I’ve been, but it isn’t where I’m going!’ I had painted everything from landscape to portraiture, yet I knew I had not yet reached what would define me as a painter. The technique was there, but it lacked the spiritual depth I was seeking.”

"Annette has since discovered the purpose for her artwork…"

“I prayed incessantly for direction; that I would know not my will, but God’s Will for my life and work. I had to change the question from ‘what’s the demand on the fine art market now?’ to ‘what am I being led to do through my work as a painter?’ And when that answer came, it took a great deal of courage and conviction to step up and follow the Calling. It is a privilege and a blessing to know the true purpose for our lives, but with it comes huge responsibility along with sacrifice and commitment.”

After much soul searching and deliberation of heart, Annette has committed to a series inspired by the life and love of Christ. As these pieces will take some time to complete, and will be shown as an exhibit rather than in a commercial environment, she may work in some related pieces to show in the gallery. While her primary focus is on painting the series, her hope is to grow the gallery to a level that will support its exhibition.

“I am so blessed to have these highly acclaimed artists to show as I concentrate on this series; they are great sources of inspiration and I have such respect for them and the dedication that has resulted in their success. From its inception, I wanted the gallery to include the work of other artists, along with a collection of hand-crafted gift items, so I went straight to the top in selecting the artists to represent and the work to be shown.

As Annette spends more of her time in the studio these days, she works primarily by appointment. She meets with clients at the gallery, at their home, at their office, and on the Internet to consult on art, framing, furnishings, and interior color plans.

The manager of the gallery, Marjorie (aka Annette’s Mom) holds it all together while Annette is out much of the time. She is the support behind the entire operation as the small gallery grows into a destination for both local and non-local collectors who want fine art at a fair price.

“We just want to continue connecting fine people with fine art, while giving the glory to God…the Master of ALL Creation.”

MISSION STATEMENT

TO SHARE THE MESSAGE that our Creator God has instilled in each of us unique talent, skills and abilities, regardless of form;

TO SHARE THE WORK of those Called to create in the area of visual arts;

TO SHARE THE GREATER VISION of God’s grace bringing us to our full potential by understanding His purpose for creating each of us.