ROANOKE, VA., April 1, 2015 – A new contemporary art gallery, Alexander/Heath Contemporary, LLC  opened in March in the West End of Downtown.  The gallery moved to a new location at 109 Campbell Ave SW in August of 2022. The gallery was originally located at 425 Campbell Avenue at the corner of Fifth Street and was part of the “Flats on Fifth” complex.

Robert Huot Opening

The first art opening was Friday, March 6, 2015 from 5pm to 10pm and featured “Equilateral Triangles” by Robert Huot. Live music was provided by guitarist Brian Mesko between 6pm and 8pm. Appetizers and beverages were served. Over 100 people attended the event.

“As soon as I saw this space I instantly thought it should be a space to show art,” admits partner and curator Edward Hettig. “Roanoke has a very active art scene with great galleries. We are excited to be a part of it.”

Katarina Isaksson Opening

Hettig, along with partners, Gregg Weinschreider and Robert Huot, formed the LLC in October 2014. Weinschreider owns SleepSafe® Beds, LLC, a safety bed and adjustable bed manufacturing facility in Bassett, Virginia. Huot, a lifelong painter, and filmmaker, lives in Upstate New York.  Hettig, a marketer and lifelong designer and painter, is originally from Upstate New York and lives in Downtown Roanoke.

The gallery has focused on solo exhibitions, running monthly. They plan to mix in community minded events such as an “Appalachian Thru-Hiker Convo” in early June. AT Thru-Hikers currently on the trail were invited to meet AT Thru-hiker alumni and share their tales. Section hikers are also welcome to join the conversation. The gallery exhibited images that were created along the trail.

Applachian Trail Thru-Hiker “CONVO”

The gallery plans to show a variety of art from a variety of artists. “This may include lifelong artists or new artists who we feel deserve exposure,” Hettig explained.

The gallery partners are avid art collectors. “We will try to bring artists to Roanoke, or from around the local area, that are worth collecting.” concludes Hettig. “It is a great opportunity to enjoy art and also have it appreciate in value.”