About the Gallery

The Skyland Gallery is committed to supporting and inspiring contemporary artists working in the visual arts. Showcasing "art celebrating nature" as our primary guiding standard, our goal is to foster creativity and artistic excellence while providing exhibition space to an eclectic mix of new and established artists.

We maintain that our natural world is the greatest "course in art" and artistic expression, like nature, comes in a variety of captivating designs. To that end, we plan to exhibit both traditional and non-traditional works of art that we feel communicate the beauty and aesthetics of our natural surroundings. In this way, the gallery will dedicate itself to share and promote uniquely talented artistians that inspire, captivate and touch our human spirit.

Skyland Gallery is a 'fine art' work-in-progress. We have fashioned a select, distinctive portfolio that we plan to develop over time. Currently, we sell limited-edition art prints and originals. Eventually, we hope to expand our inventory to include sculpture, jewelry, photography and unique gift items crafted by artists, both local and national.

Browse our current product line and you will discover subject matter such as animals and wildlife, striking landscapes, beautiful botanicals, whimsical fantasy and organic abstracts. Please take a look, enjoy what we've begun and help us grow with your feedback and patronage.

Owners Frank Cirocco and Lela Dowling have transformed the first floor of their mountain residence into a warm and welcoming space for the gallery. With a view of the Monterey Bay and the California coastline, their home is located in the heart of what once was a thriving Santa Cruz mountain farm community named Skyland. In the late 1800's, the original community arose upon Highland Hill and benefited from both the agricultural and lumber industries of the day. The Skyland community once included a post office (open from 1884 to 1910), a church (built in 1887), a school (built in 1882) and a general store.

Today, the only evidence that remains of the former district is the original Skyland Church (still in use today just across the road) and the very first schoolhouse, which was later converted into the Highland Hall Community Center (located right next door). The original settlers of the region left behind a rich heritage that the Skyland Gallery is very proud to be a part of. Frank and Lela look forward to add an exciting new chapter to the essence of the Skyland community.