Businesses Helping Local Artists Get Recognized
A few of the businesses located in downtown Sonora, whether new or old, have been displaying photographs and artworks from their local residents.
Union Hill Coffee (63 North Washington Street)
Troy Carle who is the owner of Union Hill Coffee that opened in June has already displayed a map called Tuolumme Lobotomy which was created by Zac Calbert. In addition, there is a Pinecrest landscape photo in black and white by Ryan Self.
Carle mentions how he just wants to give these artists the exposure and how he chooses to work with those he’s excited about.
Servente’s Saloon (64 South Washington Street)
The saloon dates back to 1926 and is one of the oldest in the area. According to Al Cepeda, owner since 1990, it has been operating using the same ever since.
Cepeda has multiple artworks and photos displayed at his saloon. He has black and white portraits of his customers dating as early as the 1990s as well as some original artworks displayed in his storefront windows.
Inside Servente’s, there are also black and white portraits of his friends riding motorcycles and artworks contributed by his friends.
Sonora Joe’s Coffee Shoppe (140 South Washington Street)
Joe Impink who has owned the coffee shop for more than 6 years has already built a following of customers wanting to showcase their photos and artworks.
Most of those in display are also for sale. He gets a 20% commission from selling an average of one painting or photo per month.
Yo Good Yogurt (11 South Washington Street)
Art on display at Yo Good Yogurt are made by students from elementary to secondary. Karla Garcia mentions how anyone can put art up but they are mostly from student artists. They also sell an average of two per month.
Diamondback Grill (93 South Washington Street)
Kristen Kestly decides on which artworks are displayed at Diamondback Grill. Kestly puts new art every 2 months. She charges a 30% commission which is split with the business. They sell an average of 3 monthly.
It is a good endeavor for these local businesses to sell photographs or any form of artwork like paintings and Illustrated Maps as they are able to gain alongside it.
