Media Inquiries

What is the mission and vision for Cura? 

The name “Cura” derives from Latin meaning help or care, reflecting our commitment to supporting artists while enriching the lives of the people in our community. “Contemporary” means we only exhibit artwork by living artists who we collaborate with directly. Our mission is to become an arts destination for the greater Bay Area and to invigorate our local arts community by creating opportunities for growth and connection. 

When did CURA open? What is the history behind the building?
Cura Contemporary opened to the public as Colibri Gallery in 2020 under the leadership of Gallery Director Ellie Honl Herman and the guidance of owners Dan and Kathy McCranie. Bolstered by the support of the community, artists, and a talented team, we grew to offer art workshops by professional artists and organize annual art events.  

Cura Contemporary will start a new chapter when we move into the Edes Building. Designed to be a work of art itself, the Edes Building will feature architectural elements that work together to create a striking, sculpture-like exterior inspired by the local landscape of Morgan Hill.  This flexible space, designed by KTGY Architecture Firm, will merge two large exhibition spaces with a restaurant on the first floor along with art workshops and special events to create a welcoming space for everyone who loves the arts and creative experiences.

How many artists do you exhibit? 

We have work by 44 artists on display. This includes 19 represented and 25 exhibited artists working in 2D and 3D mediums. 45% are local to the Bay Area with four of our artists living or working in Morgan Hill. 

What type of art do you show?

The artwork we exhibit is tactile, colorful, and unexpected across a variety of mediums including painting, photography, printmaking, textiles, ceramic, glass, wood, and jewelry with prices ranging from $20 - $16,000. 

How did you choose the artists and artwork in the gallery? 

We’ve intentionally sourced work in a variety of mediums in order to have a wide mix on display. Our roster includes both emerging and mid-career artists whose work has a strong sense of materiality and whose practices embrace process. We’ve worked with some of our represented artists (Alexandra Cicorschi, Kerith Lisi, Kristen Martincic, Katherine Warinner) since 2020 at Colibri Gallery. Cura’s Gallery Director, Ellie Honl, has a background in printmaking, so we have an extensive offering of prints from artists whose careers she’s followed over the years. We especially love elevating work by up and coming artists and talented artists who have yet to receive the recognition they deserve. 

Do any of CURA's artists take commissions? 

Yes, all of our artists are open to commissions. 

How often do your exhibitions change? 

CURA has two floors of exhibition space. There will always be a group show and a solo or two person exhibition on display that will alternate monthly, providing something new to view each time you visit. Our flexible gallery, with rotating and sliding walls, allow spaces to be combined or separated for exhibitions, events and workshops. 

What type of workshops do you offer?

Upcoming workshops include small and large scale oil painting, pastel, watercolor, and printmaking. Once a month we’ll be offering a self-guided figure drawing collective for intermediate to advanced artists who would like to draw from a live model. We’re also planning affordable workshops and events for children. 

Can I arrange for a private tour of the exhibition?

Yes, we’ll be offering a range of guided tours and can tailor the experience to your particular group. Please reach out to our Workshop Coordinator Sydnie Pedemonte:   sydnie@curacontemporary.com to learn more and schedule a tour. 

What other events and special programming will be offered? 

We are planning a dinner/lecture series, an open call and professional development workshops for artists, monthly film screenings, and light and sound experiences. 

Can I rent the CURA Gallery space for a special event?
Yes, reach out to curacontemporary@gmail.com for more information.

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