Savannah is one of my favorite Southern cities. The history and architecture is enchanting. When I heard that my friend, Dayna Caldwell, planned to leave Left Bank Art Gallery here on St. Simons to accept the position of curator at the Grand Bohemian Gallery I knew I would miss her, but I also felt she was making a move that would be perfect for her. My recent visit to the Mansion on Forsyth Park, part of the Kessler Collection in which the gallery is housed, opened up a whole new world for me! Dayna has found the perfect place in which to grow her vast knowledge of art as well as offer her ever present spark of happiness in life that is absolutely infectious!
Just walking through the front doors into the elegant lobby is a treat! The property has kept its historic character on the outside yet has been transformed into a chic, upscale boutique setting in the lobby and public areas. This chair is a Versace that stands alone in the lobby….why would it need company…it is magnificent! And the smell of freshly cut lilies from a huge bouquet…so intoxicating!
The Grand Bohemian Gallery is off of the bar area. Full of light and wonderful paintings, hand blown glass, jewelry and other collectibles, Dayna has done an impeccable job of putting it all together and she’s only just begun!
The show on display while we were there by artist, Jean Claude Roy, reminded me of Van Gogh at his finest. Roy’s bold brush strokes and use of color as he depicts the South of France is unforgettable! Not only were his pieces in the gallery, they were placed throughout the lobby bar and other hallways.
I loved this fabulous display case filled with hats dating back to the turn of the 20th century. You may never have considered millinery creations an art, but you’ll change your mind when you feast your eyes on this collection.
What I came away with from my visit is a feeling that this Kessler property is all about fine living, collecting and appreciating the good life. The 700 Drayton Restaurant is so beautifully decorated with a splash of edgy orange here and there in light fixtures and furnishings. Love, love the accent of the unexpected in an otherwise tranquil setting. It says to me….whimsy….excitement….the enjoyment of fun and play!
Dayna continued the grand tour of the property as I marveled over the opulent bar area and private dining rooms on the second floor.
One of the private dining rooms has an expansive table of marble that is lit from within for a dramatic display when the lights are dim! There is also a private tasting room that evokes the essence of a turn of the century lodge.
Of course, I loved the state of the art kitchen where resident chef, Peter Russo, a James Beard acclaimed chef teaches cooking classes. What fun!
This is the perfect place to go for a long weekend of holiday shopping. The next show that debuts this coming Friday is a photography exhibition of Barbara Marie Kraus’ work…patterns + textures of nature. You can stay at the Mansion, enjoy fabulous dining….see the gallery AND do some Christmas shopping. Sounds like heaven to me! For more information on the Mansion go here: http://www.mansiononforsythpark.com/
Mansion On Forsyth Park, 700 Drayton Street, Savannah, GA 31401 – 888-711-5114
3 Responses
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cris Says:
Great article. Living in Hilton Head, I, of course, knew of the hotel, but not the gallery. Will definitely visit. Thanks!
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Dayna Caldwell Says:
Melissa, Thank you for featuring my new position and company in your post today! I love all of the details that you highlighted.
Just for those who would like to know,
Grand Bohemian Gallery contact information:website: http://www.GrandBohemianGallery.com
gallery phone: 912-721-5007
my email address: Dayna.Caldwell@kesslercollection.com -
Melissa Says:
Thanks so much for sharing this information Dayna! See you soon!
