Walking around her Solana Beach gallery, Ruth-Ann Thorn proudly shows off different works of art, including a bright blue surfboard emblazoned with cheerful sunflowers painted by Gloria Lee and whimsical bronze statues created by Paul Lotz.
“I always wanted a sculpture garden,” she said while gazing outside at the collection of Lyman Whitaker metal sculptures fluttering in the wind on the path leading up to Exclusive Collections Gallery. Although not an artist herself, Thorn has found a passion for the arts through years of working in and owning galleries, and from being sandwiched betwixt two generations of artists. Three years ago, the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians tribal member launched “Art of the City,” a docuseries featuring artists throughout the region and beyond.