KiptonART Featured Gallery: Britton Gallery

Name of Gallery, Location
Britton Gallery, Haleiwa, Hawaii

Owner
Michele Bachman

Specialty
Contemporary Hawaii Artists and Craftsmen

Why did you decide to open a gallery?

The original owner had a good friend, Jurgen Aldag, who painted large unique abstracts. Over the years he had acquired quite a few pieces as he "supported the arts". We still show Aldags work, but have expanded to over 35 different Hawaii artists. I started to work in the gallery in 2001 to educate and support myself in my desire to make painting a way of life. I do oil landscapes. In 2008 the owner decided to retire and since I had been a loyal employee and good manager he made it possible for me to buy the gallery. I love it, now if I can just find some time to paint.

What have you found to be the most difficult aspect of running a gallery?

Keeping your product mix unique and interesting, defining who you customer is, and who you are, and then reaching them to let them know you are there. We are in a small town on Oahu's North Shore and most of my customers are looking for things that are made in the islands. Many are here on vacation, but we also have a good local customer base as well. Keeping them all happy keeps the door open, and getting the right mix of price, size and style is a challenge. Almost as important, sometimes more important is the staff. Finding people that reflect the style of the gallery, and who can also sell is an ongoing challenge.

Read more about the Britton Gallery in the KiptonART magazine!
Kipton Cronkite Approved!