A stroll past Oculus Gallery's windowed storefront virtually guarantees a double take. It's not the spaces old-fashioned schoolhouse charm of worn hardwood floors, sparse lighting and a white pressed tin ceiling that makes it a show-stopper. It’s the colorful smattering of contemporary photography, graphics, and original movie posters on the walls that captivate the mind with bold color and showcase the complex relationship between fine art and commercial design.

At a recent opening reception, collector Ray Ruggeri discussed his vast collection of highly coveted, vintage movie posters from such films as Vertigo, Cat People, and Breakfast at Tiffany's. The installation exemplified that treatments and typography used in commercial art can be just as breathtaking and complex as fine art. Ranging in price from $100-$10,000, some pieces are even affordable.

While the gallery is young (it opened in early 2007), director Dave Grossfeld has been in the art business for 25 years. Oculus Gallery participates in Pilsen's "2nd Fridays," a monthly reception for galleries affiliated with the Chicago Art District’s free event that is open to the public.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jen Hazen