Commemorating Ten Years of Art: Gallery Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Lively and Uplifting Exhibitions [Interview]

Title: Adelman Fine Art: Celebrating Ten Years of Color, Community, and #ArtYouLove

Nestled in the lively Little Italy area of San Diego is a gallery that has transformed the way contemporary art is experienced and collected over the past decade. Founded by Marcia Adelman in 2014, Adelman Fine Art (AFA) is now co-led by her daughters, Nicole and Phylicia Adelman, who embody a philosophy centered on warmth, accessibility, and joy—attributes that resonate through every painting and sculpture showcased. As the gallery marks its 10th anniversary, it reflects on its impressive journey, community-focused mission, and inventive methodology in curating contemporary art experiences.

A Family Dream Realized into an Artistic Sanctuary

AFA originated from Marcia Adelman’s deep love for both visual and performing arts, alongside her aspiration to create a family-operated business with her daughters. Today, Nicole and Phylicia have fully embraced leadership, skillfully steering the gallery’s direction. They have broadened AFA’s influence by hosting curated thematic exhibitions, offering digital experiences, and organizing community events that bring collectors together with art that inspires joy and significance.

“Our guiding principle has always been ‘Art You Love,’” shares Nicole Adelman. “That remains unchanged. It has become our standard—for the artworks we showcase and the atmosphere we foster.”

Exhibitions Brimming with Color and Emotion

Browsing through AFA’s previous exhibitions reveals a vibrant array of colors, textures, and emotions. Whether showcasing impressionistic landscapes like Lisa Elley’s “California Sunshine,” heartfelt figurative pieces such as Iris Scott’s “Thick as Thieves,” or the ethereal pointillist brushwork of “Goddess of Archery,” AFA consistently favors emotional depth over elitism in the art world.

“We are drawn to uplifting, visually striking art that people want to live with,” Phylicia explains. “Our aim is for our art to elicit smiles, encourage reflection, and make viewers feel acknowledged.”

Indeed, Scott’s finger-painted artworks, including “Woven With a Salty Breeze” and “Moonlight Swim,” embody AFA’s unique curation—they are both tactile and personal, enticing viewers to come closer, engaging their senses not only visually but emotionally.

A Welcoming Approach to Art Engagement

AFA proudly dismantles many formal, oftentimes intimidating norms of traditional galleries. In a space with “Come As You Are” displayed at the entrance, all visitors—from experienced collectors to curious onlookers—are greeted with warmth and openness.

“There’s no admission fee, no dress code, and absolutely no pretense,” Nicole states. “Sometimes stepping into a tranquil art space is the best part of someone’s day away from the chaos.”

This inviting spirit also embraces pet owners, as dogs are just as welcome as their human partners. This cultivates what the Adelman sisters refer to as “an art bubble”—a peaceful, engaging atmosphere centered around human connection and appreciation for creativity.

A Vibrant Curation Process

Every three months, AFA refreshes its space with a new exhibition—each characterized by thematic significance and storytelling through visuals. Whether showcasing music-inspired themes like Music as Muse or artist-centric narratives in Lens to Brush, each exhibition serves as a platform for connection and emotional engagement.

The artworks primarily come from a growing number of artist submissions, cultivated partnerships, and longstanding relationships with creators. AFA remains committed to balancing renowned artists with rising talents, ensuring its offerings are consistently engaging and innovative.

“No two exhibits are identical,” Nicole expresses. “We are continuously evolving—blending mediums, styles, and themes—to honor the remarkable diversity of contemporary art.”

Moments That Create Wonder

Some of AFA’s most unforgettable moments stem from extraordinary encounters—such as flying to New Mexico on a private jet to view an enormous painting by Iris Scott or the enchanting evening when a single client acquired over 30 original works in a single visit.

Beyond these standout events, what truly resonates with the AFA team are the myriad daily interactions—among them, celebrity collectors including Juliette Lewis and Jenifer Lewis—who have become ardent advocates for the gallery and its vision.

“We’ve created more than just a gallery—we’ve established a community,” Nicole shares. “Being part of people’s lives through art is incredibly fulfilling.”

A Future Filled with Passion

As it looks ahead, AFA is well-positioned to keep growing while staying firmly connected to its roots as a family-operated business and community resource. With a new long-term lease in hand, the gallery’s footprint in San Diego is solidified, and exploring digital avenues is a priority to reach wider audiences while preserving the intimacy of the in-person experience.

Even younger members of the Adelman family are stepping into the journey—Nicole’s daughter Ava has recently begun assisting at the gallery—signifying the start of an exciting new chapter for AFA as a multigenerational art family.