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| - If you visit Maddi's Gallery expecting high end oils and abstract expressionist works of Serious Art, you'll doubtless be disappointed. Maddi's is really a craft gallery at heart, with an emphasis on whimsy, craftsmanship, and "outsider-style" art. I use quotes here, since I have not seen any examples of true outsider art here, but lots of colorful primitive work that is certain to brighten any room. Maddi's most serious collections are in glass, and they have some wonderful pieces of studio art glass. I have seen some "big name" artists such as Chihuly and Tagliapietra here, but mostly they feature some "mid-range" artists, such as Peter Ridabock or Robert Eickholt. Make no mistake, however, this original work does not come cheap, so if you go to Maddi's expecting to pay for home decor, you'll be frustrated with the high prices.
My only real complaint about Maddi's is the often snooty service- or lack of service- given to shoppers. Colorful, whimsical, fun merchandise almost screams to be touched, so contrasted with the chilly staff, an outing to Maddi's can seem a little jarring. It's a fun place to browse, though, and if you're a serious collector of studio art glass, it's a must-do.
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