We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rob Lantz. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rob below.

Rob, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

I believe it’s really important for the community to support the arts because it adds to the richness of our cultural and social experiences through promoting creativity, diversity, and new ideas. I started R Gallery to create a space that would showcase the incredible talents of Colorado artists while providing a welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike. We added a wine bar to our space, aiming to create a complete sensory experience. Here, locals can savor a handpicked selection of wines while enjoying live music performances and intimate theatrical plays. Our goal was to provide a haven where people could immerse themselves in the arts, connect with one another, and create lasting memories.

Rob, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a local artist myself. Before starting R Gallery, I struggled to find places in the Boulder area where I felt comfortable showcasing my work. There were some short-term pop-ups, but nothing permanent that was dedicated to promoting local artists. I felt that I could create a unique gallery that not only provided artists with the opportunity to exhibit and sell their art but also a space that was inviting, inclusive, and welcoming for everyone.

R Gallery features artworks of various styles, price ranges, and sizes. We firmly believe in the concept of “Fine Art for Everyone.” Every 6 to 8 weeks, we introduce a new themed exhibit, and the works by our key artists are rotated frequently, ensuring that the gallery feels fresh and new with each visit.

The addition of the wine and beer bar was part of our initial plan. When the adjacent space became available, we were able to expand and create the meeting and performance space I had envisioned. The bar area completes the experience and allows our customers to enjoy a drink and a snack in a soothing and peaceful environment. They can leisurely browse the entire gallery with a beverage in hand.

This expansion has enabled us to host larger events such as “Meet the Artists” receptions, art talks, live music, and local performances. The additional space provides us with the opportunity to showcase local performing artists, aligning with our focus on community building.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I started the gallery exactly one year before the COVID-19 lockdowns. Hopes were high, and I had a great plan in place. We built the space, gathered artists, and began generating momentum while establishing a strong community of clients. However, we soon found ourselves forced to close our doors due to the pandemic, enduring years of uncertainty and buyer apprehension about visiting public spaces.

This was undoubtedly challenging. On one hand, I recognized the value our gallery brought to the community, but understandably, people were reluctant to take risks by visiting places like ours. Yet, fueled by my stubbornness and determination, I persisted. As the world gradually reopened, I seized the opportunity to expand and prepare for when things returned to normal.

I believe that this perseverance ultimately instilled even greater trust in our community, assuring them that we would be here for the long haul, doing whatever it took to continue promoting local art.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

I do not come from a wealthy background. When I embarked on starting the gallery, I had very little money in my bank account. It was sheer determination that drove me to begin this venture. I financed it through personal loans and credit cards, although I acknowledge that this might not have been the wisest approach to launching a business. However, I had a clear vision, and I would rather take the risk and potentially fail than forever ponder on what could have been.

Fortunately, I had a career in technology which allowed me to maintain my full-time job while hiring staff to help bring my gallery vision to life. I dedicated my evenings and weekends to formulating the plan and working at the gallery to get things off the ground, relying on my staff during weekday hours.    

Contact Info:

• Website: www.rgallery.art
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rgallery.art/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rgalleryart
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/r-gallery-wine-bar-boulder-2