Colorado Springs, CO - In collaboration with Hunter-Wolff Gallery, 2510 W. Colorado Avenue, Gertrude's Restaurant is exhibiting a special collection of artwork by Colorado Springs Artist Janelle Cox. Cox has been one of the premiere artists at the gallery for the past few years.

Amid the aroma of exquisite cuisine and the soft hum of chatter, patrons of Gertrude's Restaurant in Old Colorado City seem to enjoy not only the dining experience, but linger longer to appreciate the beautiful, original artwork.

Gertrude's is a great venue for exhibiting art for sale, as local artist Laura Reilly will attest to since she had exhibited at the restaurant for more than 10 years. "As in any business, change is healthy and this is good for everyone," says Reilly.

Gertrude's was acquired about seven months ago by Tom Lazaron and he requested the assistance of Hunter-Wolff Gallery to make the artwork change happen smoothly. His goal for an exhibit is to provide his patrons with quality artwork and quality food for a pleasant and memorable experience. "I just want to combine those two things for my discerning clientele," says Tom Lazaron. "The new art is beautiful and inviting. This collection suits what I am trying to achieve for a relaxing dining experience."

The paintings were inspired by some of Colorado's most beautiful landscapes and recent international travels by the artist. Cox paints on any size canvas including large scale and varies her color palette according to mood, chooses a wide range of subject matter from still life to cityscapes and everything in between, ranging from $350 to $5,000.

The exhibit just opened and although Gertrude's regulars were accustomed to Laura Reilly's oil paintings adorning the walls, they seem to enjoy the new work as well. The process to have an ongoing exhibit at the restaurant was a breeze to set up, largely due to the gallery's ability to coordinate all aspects including coordinating the colors, textures, vistas and hanging of each piece. "I simply made a call to Sharon Wolff, the owner of Hunter-Wolff Gallery and she took care of everything. It was like magic!" Tom Lazaron says he personally enjoys good wine, good food and good artwork. "I think we have a winning combination here." He plans to continue to offer all three for a long time in his restaurant.

Gertrude's Restaurant is a sponsor of Old Colorado City's First Friday ArtWalk and plans to offer a special for the first ArtWalk on April 4. Call for your reservations 719-471-0887 now and check out the great artwork. You may even run into the artist if you are lucky! Bon Appetite!