The Journey to Worldwide Recognition

“This is the most beautiful gallery I have ever seen!” proclaimed an excited visitor to Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art in Sedona. “How can there be this much artistic talent in one place?” expressed another. This amazing gallery, recognized as “One of the largest and most unique galleries in the world,” features spectacular contemporary, traditional and southwestern art created by gifted, world-class artists.

Upon arriving at Exposures, located in the heart of Sedona, the impressive outside display of monumental sculpture will take your breath away and the grand sculpture garden is certainly as memorable. A walk down the meandering art-lined pathway brings an irresistible invitation to explore 20,000-square-feet of artistic display. Respected author Judy Harper describes it as “Going from black and white to an energy-charged, over-the-rainbow OZ.” Striking bronze sculptures, provocative fountains, color-splashed paintings, photography of the Southwest, designer jewelry, stunning glass creations, plus sculpted bells that awaken visual and aural senses, are created by some of today’s finest living artists. With twists and turns through cozy viewing rooms the gallery unveils itself slowly, a perfect reflection of its devoted owners, Marty and Diane Herman, and their very talented, professional staff.

For over two decades Exposures has been voted “Best Art Gallery in Sedona,” selected “Best Art Gallery in Arizona,” recognized as “Best Jewelry Gallery in Sedona,” and named “One of the 25 Best Galleries in America.” These accolades further enhance Marty and Diane’s commitment to the arts and culture of Sedona.

The gallery’s reputation for artistic excellence reaches audiences worldwide. Collectors as far away as Europe and Asia look to Sedona for their art collections. These collectors often coordinate their travel plans to ensure they will be present during the gallery’s highly anticipated two-weekend Fall Shows, the annual Valentine’s Show, and selected one-artist shows. Locals and visitors alike know that these events are full of fun, magic and a feast for the eyes.

The story from tiny business to Sedona’s artistic gateway is fascinating. Marty Herman was named a Top 100 Executive by the Los Angeles Times, and Diane Herman had already accumulated years of experience in performing and visual arts. Together, their efforts combined with positive energy and enthusiasm for life led to Exposures International’s explosion onto the Southwest art scene. The dynamic owners point out that their gallery began as a labor of love for the arts, a small business whose huge success has been decades in the making.

The journey to worldwide recognition began in 1996 when Marty and Diane united their passion for the arts with their desire to energize and enhance Sedona’s arts and culture community into a renowned oasis of art. Through perseverance, dedication and determination they helped to support Sedona as the cultural gem of the Southwest, and a top destination for art lovers and connoisseurs. As their dream evolved the gallery collection grew from six artists in 1996 to more than 100 today, and the gallery’s space experienced multiple expansions transitioning from 1,700-square-feet of art display to over 20,000. Marty Herman explains, “We wanted to bring our vision of a gallery to Sedona. One with fun, enthusiasm and professionalism with good old-fashioned values incorporated in a contemporary way. We believe that the arts are, and should be, an essential part of everyday life. We built the gallery on a foundation of honesty, integrity, hard work and love.” Hoyt Johnson, former publisher of Sedona Magazine, may have described it best when he wrote, “Marty and Diane established this gallery with a dance from their soul and a labor of love – love of art, artists, and this community.”

As Exposures gains mature esteem, artists from around the world seek to be a part of this special and evolving gallery. From over 2,000 artist submissions each year the gallery staff narrows the selection to less than a handful for gallery representation. “Many of our artists are the most talented in the world for their unique medium,” states gallery manager Debbie Ibarrola. Sales manager, Jennifer Garcia adds, “Our professional staff will assist you with information about that perfect piece you fall in love with for that perfect place.”

The partnership that is formed between the gallery and the artists has led to much of the success. One of the gallery’s more unique artists, painter Jd Challenger explains, “These wonderful people are an absolute blessing to the art world, it doesn’t get any better than this!” Famed bronze artist Rebecca Tobey tells clients, “Marty and Diane have created the most breathtaking gallery in the country!”  And one of the gallery’s newest artists, painter Tesa Michaels, says “I get so much encouragement from this gallery. There is an uplifting freedom to be an artist.”  World-class fine art jeweler Barbara Westwood proudly displays her entire, one-of-a-kind collection at Exposures.

Walking into Exposures International today, visitors are greeted with smiles, and an open, dynamic space. The atmosphere in the gallery is warm and welcoming, the artwork is meticulously merchandised, and the music is guaranteed to get happy feet tapping. Every inch of display is put to use, and art lovers quickly surrender to the joy of being completely surrounded by a world of extraordinarily talented artists.

Marty Herman’s philosophy is simple, “We want visitors to be happy and enjoy the gallery experience. Our mission has been to create an unparalleled environment of artistic wonder. Art seems to make people smile. Art is for the soul!”