Hawthorne Gallery

The gallery hosts the artwork of local Californian artists, some of them live as close as in Big Sur. I was enchanted by the wood sculptures of artist Terry Kuntz.

I have long been a fan of the Hawthorne family of artists who have had this gallery in Big Sur for many years as well as property in Sand City, CA near Monterey. Other reviewers here have described the gallery very nicely. I wanted to add that they also feature Albert Paley a marvelous bronze sculptor who creates functional objects in an art nouveau/​modernist style. His work is well worth the stop.
Also if you are lucky enough, perhaps buying a Paley or Hawthorne piece would suffice, the gallery holds one of the best Big Sur parties of the year. This is by invitation only, but if you are determined, there are ways. Held every October the party includes wonderful entertainment, neighbor Johnny Rivers, of Secret Agent fame, has been known to show up and blast a few out. They always manage to have some amazing acrobats swinging in trees or this year 2 Cirque de Soleil contortionists. There is major dancing, food and bar and I have gone for many years and the weather has always been sunny and hot. The views are amazing and just across the street from the famed Nepenthe restaurant.

Form and Function.
Art is a family affair with the Hawthorne’s. Located along the scenic PCH in Big Sur, CA, Hawthorne Gallery is an eclectic display of just about every object from skilled artisans as one can imagine. Each Hawthorne is unique in their expression of painting, sculptures, furnishings, and jewelry. If the patron desires, Hawthorne art can be functional as well. They offer working fountains and furnishings that are just as pretty as they are practical for use. The outdoor sculptures seem to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The paintings are truly hypnotic and demand attention, whether critical or not. Truly a great way to keep your guests occupied if dinner’s not quite ready. The vases are beautiful and accent any room but I personally wouldn’t use these for flowers as I would make use of the slumped glass trays such as, putting my keys in them after arriving home. All the Hawthorne’s art is created using just about every natural and manmade material available and offered in a variety of prices making all of it affordable to a variety of patrons. My visitation was facilitated by a very helpful, un-​obtrusive, and friendly hostess who really wanted me to enjoy my stay knowing full well that I wasn’t quite in the market for any purchases at this time. She even let me know of the «Café Kevah» across the Hwy, if I desired a meal break then, a longer stay. I was ready to leave after taking all the pictures I wanted. This hostess insisted I didn’t leave without the appropriate brochure and business card. Other businesses take note. This is the kind of people you hire to represent your company. A person who has passion for their work and the people they meet. Sadly, in my life, I must admit to having far less than she does.
Lastly the building itself is art. Designed by Architect Mickey Muennig, he is a Bug Sur resident who has an impressive portfolio. One suggestion to Mr. Muennig, «Hire a better Web designer that reflects your talents as an Architect. The site does a great injustice to your brilliance.»

The Hawthorne Gallery is one of the most phenomenal galleries in the Big Sur Carmel area. Words although helpful really do not do it justice. If you are ever in the area it should be a must-​see destination. Not to mention its location in big sir, just to see the view is worth the trip. The staff is so people friendly that you will want to become part of the family. It is truly an art oriented community taking the experience to the max. Culture culture culture… It doesn’t get any better.

My parents are lovely people that truly enjoy visiting art galleries, and while I usually make it a point to gripe and moan and generally be as miserable a son as possible until they can’t enjoy anything even a little bit with me along… this place is pretty great.
Simply standing on the roof and staring out over the water is wonderful enough, but Hawthorne has some of the most beautiful sculptures, fountains, and more. You should absolutely make at least a quick stop as you drive through Big Sur, even if you can’t drop $ 30,000 on a table.

Walk behind the gallery to experience the sculpture garden and fountains. Beautiful backdrop for beautiful work.
Enjoyed meeting Kate, she was a great source of artistic background and gallery history. Impressive to learn: all the installation, delivery is professionally handled by staff (not farmed out) so perhaps the artist delivers your piece? Nice.

I have been blessed to visit their galleries both in Big Sur CA and in Port Orford OR. Both feature amazing art, amazing views, breath-​taking terrain, and an organic ‘art meets magnificent nature’ feel. Splendid pieces from sculpture to glass. Everything is well displayed and definitely very worthy. Stop in and tempt yourself, or at least feel inspired. Very friendly, highly knowledgable staff as well.

I’m not a huge art gallery person but this one is really definitely worth stopping in! Lots of interesting stuff, an outside sculpture garden, and a nice patio on top. The people here were really friendly; a lot of it is family who make the art. The front desk lady ran after us to give us a flyer because she thought we were leaving (we were going to see the sculpture garden).