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THE BIGGER PICTURE

Former picture framers and now successful gallery owners, Milton and Jackie Johanides never imagined that their dream of “a quiet life on the Costa” would turn into a 450 square metre art space in Fuengirola, where they have established one of the area's favourite stomping grounds for both artists and art lovers alike.

There are infinite reasons why people choose this idyllic southern Spanish location as home, and for many, the Coast is not just about the lifestyle and beautiful setting, it is also about the inspiration it provides on an artistic level. Indeed, the Costa del Sol is home to numerous established and upcoming artists whose work is inspired by its countless charms. Founded in 2004, the Riviera Gallery in Fuengirola is a base for such artists and aficionados. In fact, owners Milton and Jackie Johanides refer to it as an artists' village due to its friendly, welcoming, community environment. In little over two years, the couple have represented over 50 artists and sold more than 400 original works of art. But, more importantly, they also provide a unique cultural centre where amateurs and professionals alike are given the opportunity to exhibit their work. In addition, the Riviera Gallery houses an art shop, stocking a wide range of specialised materials, while also hosting art hobby nights, quiz nights and a Saturday morning Kids' Art Club, as well as offering café and bar facilities to its visitors.

Success could not be sweeter for Milton and Jackie who are forever coming up with novel ways of enhancing still further the Riviera Gallery's services and popularity. There are plans to launch a poster printing facility and an Internet café as well as a widescreen television for art presentations and exhibitions. Perhaps the most eagerly anticipated of future events, however, is the Andalusian Artist of the Year Competition, due to take place this month and open to artists currently residing or holidaying in Andalucía and who are over the age of 18. After several months of preparation and much deliberation, a panel of experts will choose a winner and nominate two runners-up on 15 June. The Riviera Gallery are due to host numerous other activities throughout the summer, such as the preview of the Marine Art Exhibition on 7 June, which will be accompanied by wine and snacks prepared by Jackie, whose catering skills are renowned. The gallery's excellent website is a great source of information and an ideal way of keeping up with what's going on at the artists' village, and a trip to the acclaimed art centre should definitely be on your list of places to visit on the Coast this summer.

The Riviera Gallery - C/Maestra Ángeles
Aspiazu, Fuengirola. For further information,
Tel: (+34) 952 593 792 Web: www.rivieragallery.org.