Meet Tanya Kaiser | Director and Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tanya Kaiser and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tanya, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Calculated risks are an important distinction when considering a risk. It’s about assessing the uncertainties and making informed decisions. For me, risk-taking has been pivotal in shaping my life and career. It’s been a balancing act between caution and courage, where calculated risks have often led to some of my most significant achievements.

In my life, embracing risks has meant stepping out of my comfort zone, allowing me to explore new opportunities, learn, and grow. Whether it was taking on a challenging project or pursuing an unconventional path, each risk has expanded my horizons and enriched my experiences.

I understand risk. I opened Kaiser Gallery in December 2020, during a global pandemic. I signed a lease during a mandated shutdown. Now, Kaiser Gallery is making an impactful presence in the community, and we are still taking risks as we grow

Overall, my approach to risk involves thoughtful analysis, understanding the potential consequences, and being prepared for various outcomes. It’s about finding the balance between prudence and the willingness to embrace uncertainty, knowing that, at times, the greatest rewards come from taking calculated risks.

What should our readers know about your business?
In November 2019, I made the move from Long Island to Cleveland, eager to explore my new city. However, just as I was settling in, the pandemic struck, and everything closed down. While I continued to work remotely, with a background in event management, there were limited tasks during the shelter-in-place period.

During this time, I revisited a long-held dream of opening an art gallery. I began searching for suitable properties and instantly fell in love with Tremont. In July 2020, amidst the challenges of the pandemic, I took the bold step of signing the lease for 2418 Professor Ave. It was a period of tireless work as I prepared to open the gallery. As a single mother at the time, my daughter joined me at the gallery for her remote learning while I painted the walls.

My vision for the gallery was to create a welcoming haven for art enthusiasts, featuring phenomenal artists and offering diverse programming with a strong focus on inclusivity and community engagement. In our very first year, we received a nomination for Best Art Gallery in Cleveland Scene. And more recently, we were honored with a community impact award from Tremont West Development Corporation. I take great pride in making our art gallery approachable, ensuring a wide range of events, programming, and experiences for our visitors. Our cocktail bar, in particular, serves as a familiar amenity for those new to the art gallery scene.

The cocktail bar is an important component of the art gallery and is designed to enhance the art viewing experience, not compete with it. Our artists are of high caliber, and we have equally high expectations for our cocktails. My experience primarily lies in art and non-profit administration and I had never worked in a bar setting before. However, my vision led me to surround myself with inspiring talent who helped bring my vision for Kaiser Gallery’s cocktail bar to life. Many of our drinks feature housemade syrups and infusions, offering a uniqueness unlike any other bar.

This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. I am immensely proud to have established Kaiser Gallery here in Cleveland and eagerly anticipate the exciting future ahead.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Cleveland is an amazing city with exciting amenities. There is so much to do here. When not at Kaiser Gallery, I love showing off Playhouse Square with its many theatres, the Cleveland Art Museum and its prestigious position as one of the top art galleries in the US, and the delectable culinary treats waiting to be discovered at West Side Market.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Tremont West Development Corporation is an amazing asset to the Tremont community and small businesses. They have been integral in the process of opening my business, Kaiser Gallery, and continue to support me where they can. I have so much gratitude towards them.

Website: www.kaisergallery.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaisergallery/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kaisergallery

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaiserartgallery

Image Credits
Kaiser Gallery