My Pick of the Week is an art exhibition offered by Katherine Cone Gallery, Sean Cheetham’s latest exhibition entitled “Champagne Wishes and Caviar Dreams” is a solo exhibition of new works.

See image to right, “Champagne Wishes and Caviar Dreams,” 2011 oil on Arches paper, 10 x 8.”

What I like about this exhibition, is unlike so many abstract/contemporary artists today, you can see that Cheetham actually has some training as an artist. So many artists have had no formal training, yet will splash some paint on a canvas and call it art. They have no idea of how to draw or paint. Not the case with Sean Cheetham.

Cheethan is a skilled draftsman. His classic portrayal of his subjects allows the viewer to step into the scene. Almost as if they, the viewer are part of that reality.

His portraits, usually of women, capture a moment in time, often revealing the sadness of the characters, intertwined with the richness of the art form. You can feel the emotion seeping from the canvas.

“Champagne Wishes and Caviar Dreams,” will run until March 10th, 2012. The opening reception runs from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. At tonight’s opening, there will also be limited edition giclees for sale.

Katherine Cone Gallery is located at 2673 S. La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90034. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10-6pm; (310) 287-1558; www.katherineconegallery.com.