Christopher Johnson's namesake gallery has only been around since 2005 but has quickly epitomized Bucktown's split personality, catering to the neighborhood's status as an epicenter for working artists along with its increasingly gentrified trendiness. On opening nights, the well-heeled Damen Avenue crowd sips wine side-by-side with the creative professionals residing closer to Western Avenue.

Johnsonese programs cleverly accommodate both constituencies, fulfilling a mission that serves emerging, innovative artists while attracting residential and corporate clients. Exhibits have included "Palimpsest," exploring the technique of repeatedly applying and removing paint, and "Go Blue," highlighting artists from Johnson's alma mater, the University of Michigan.

Johnsonese looks beyond Bucktown to impact the world, raising funds for social service organizations, hurricane victims, civil rights and civil liberties, and other timely causes. Gallery management has curated art exhibits at city theaters and businesses in need of design advice.

The storefront blends in so well with its concrete, glass and brick neighbors that you might miss the space entirely if not for a beckoning sandwich board. You could scan an entire exhibit from the sidewalk, but then you'd miss a friendly, informative chat with gallery staff intent on landing new clientele. And you might miss the chance to acquire work by the next Ed Paschke for less than $500.

Centerstage Reviewer: Justin Sondak