Behind This New Atlanta Gallery Inspired By Art Basel

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When newlyweds Heidi and Ramsey Maune decided to open a gallery of international-caliber art works in the Capital of the South, they chose to do so along one of Atlanta’s most respected art and antiques corridors: Miami Circle.

Longtime collectors, the husband-and-wife duo was committed to representing the top-tier talent, counting such headliners as Richard Serra, Joan Miro, Ellsworth Kelly and Frank Gehry among their new Maune Contemporary stable.

For the opening exhibition September 13, they’ll show an array of Coca-Cola-themed prints from acclaimed figurative artist Alex Katz–for a fun nod to Atlanta’s fourth-largest corporation–with one original painting by Katz also in the mix.

Below, the couple expands on their ever-evolving inventory and what’s next for the gallery.

How did the idea for the gallery come about?

Heidi: After a trip to Art Basel and a long time surveying the Atlanta market, we realized there wasn’t anyone local specializing in limited-edition prints by internationally known contemporary artists. That’s the majority of what we personally collect, and we know Atlanta as a world-class city with a vibrant arts community, so we felt the concept would be supported.

Tell us about the spot where you chose to set up shop in Buckhead.

Ramsey: We found a space on Miami Circle that was originally a warehouse and lends itself perfectly to an art gallery thanks to its high ceilings and open layout. We painted everything white and polished the concrete floors to create a contemporary feel. We also installed museum-quality LED lighting that showcases artworks in their best light.

Why did you choose Alex Katz for your debut show?

H: We loved seeing Alex Katz’s “Coca-Cola Girl” series at Art Basel, partly because this artist is very special to Ramsey and me; his 2015 show at The High Museum in Atlanta was the site of our first date.

R: This combined with the Coca-Cola corporate connection in Atlanta made his series of prints perfect for our opening exhibition. We’re also fortunate to be showing an original oil painting from the series; our hope is that the piece will be purchased by a local collector and remain in the city.

How did you land so many stellar international talents?

R: We source a majority of our prints directly from the artists’ publishers. We also own art that we have acquired from auctions, art fairs and directly from the artists. We are excited to represent two talents exclusively: Ted Collier from St. Louis and Justin Lyons from Grayton Beach, Florida. Both artists are represented by galleries in New York, L.A. and Miami. They are very talented, and we think Atlanta will love their work.

What additional blue-chip talents can we expect at Maune Contemporary in the coming months?

H: Our next exhibition will be with abstract artist Ted Collier, November 15–December 31, followed by an exhibition for contemporary artist Donald Sultan, February 7-March 31, 2020. We’re also in talks with two other internationally known artists whose works have been shown in major museums around the world. We can’t disclose their names yet; you’ll have to wait and see!