Don't pass the Paseo

Browse the studios and galleries of Oklahoma City's only artists community.

A trip to the Paseo Arts District is like escaping to Old Spain right in the middle of Oklahoma. The district is just 2 1/2 miles north of downtown Oklahoma City, but it feels much different due to its pastel, stuccoed buildings and clay tile roofs. The area is home to more than 30 artists, including potters, painters, and photographers. You can watch them work and do a little shopping as well. The best part is that everything is within walking distance, so just park your car, and take a stroll.

Old Trinity Gallery is an intriguing find. When photographer Tom Lee discovered a 19th-century Canadian church for sale on the Internet, he did the logical thing: He bought it and moved it to Oklahoma City. Tom felt that Old Trinity Anglican Church, built in 1842, would make a perfect studio. Now he welcomes visitors to the church, which houses his black-- and-white photography gallery.

Stop at Paseo Pottery where Collin Rosebrook and 18 other potters display their work. You'll find some of Collin's "low-fat teapots"-giant urns covered in various designs. If you'll be in the area for a while, he even offers monthly pottery classes.

At Craig's Emporium check out the homemade soaps and candles. With names such as Angel's Breath and Ocean, the varieties may seem a bit ethereal, but you'll like what you smell when you pick one up.

A word to the wise: Some of the galleries hold inconsistent hours. Most are open Tuesday through Saturday, but it's smart to call ahead.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jul 2002
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