As Director of Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing and Hearne Fine Art, Garbo Hearne has developed an eye for signature style. In fact, that’s what she looks for when scouting new talent.
“I like to work with new to mid-career artists who have a definitive style,” she explains. “I want to be able to look at a piece and know instinctively who the artist is. But at the same time, I look for growth. I like artists who push and challenge themselves without losing their voice, so to speak.”
Garbo’s career path is far from what you’d expect. She’s a registered nurse by trade and a self-taught art aficionado. She left her nursing career in 1988 to open Pyramid Gallery, which featured African American fine art and prints from local artists. Soon, her business grew to include custom framing services, books, and quarterly fine art exhibitions with regional and national artists. Always evolving, she moved into expanded gallery space in the River Market in 1997, which allowed her to invest more energy in showcasing fine art. The gallery and store have been located in the historic Dunbar neighborhood since 2010. Here’s more about our April Style Icon in her own words:
Soirée: What’s your personal style?
Garbo: Simple, elegant, timeless. As far as interiors, I like a mix of classic and eclectic. I’m not big on color coordination. Every piece of furniture or art in our home stands on its own merit.
Where do you like to shop in Little Rock?
I’m not a shopaholic, but when I need something stylish in a hurry, I call Jill at Feinstein’s in The Heights. I leave home décor up to my husband Archie. He always finds the most unique pieces that fit perfectly in our home. In terms of art, we like to select pieces together. We choose pieces based on aesthetic value, technique and investment potential.
Do you have a favorite medium?
Currently, I am really enjoying three-dimensional work. Basil Watson, Chukes, Ed Dwight and Artis Lane are some of my favorite sculptors and some of the very best in the game. I also have my eye on Bryan Massey, a professor at the University of Central Arkansas.
Who are a few artists you wish more people in town knew about?
Marjorie Williams-Smith is doing amazing things with silverpoint. Kevin Cole just celebrated 25 years as a professional artist and educator but is still very underexposed in my opinion. Latoya Hobbs is an emerging talent but her printmaking reflects so much maturity.
What does the future hold for you?
I know I’ll be busy! As an appraiser, I get new clients weekly. I hope to continue developing client-artist relations. I also hope to reach out to young professionals and foster an appreciation for art collecting in this demographic. I would like to work at least 25 more years before handing the reins to one of my children.
Garbo Hearne wears a blouse and pants from Feinstein’s, earrings from Barbara/Jean purchased years ago at a nonprofit fundraiser and her signature pyramid necklace, given to her by friend and local folk artist Miss Otis.
Garbo Hearne moves her personal art collection around frequently, often organizing it around a theme or period of time, as shown here in the music room.
The Hearnes’ living room is a mix of media and artists, but the sculptures by Artis Lane take center stage.
Another look at the Hearne’s living roomand Artis Lane sculptures.
Garbo Hearne relaxes at home.