Focus on Local Businesses
Octavia Haze, 498 Hayes St, at Octavia, has been at the same location in Hayes Valley for 11 years. The gallery is a popular spot during many of the events and block parties in Hayes Valley. For many years the gallery featured glass work besides paintings. For the last 5 years the owner, Eric Melampy, has had a relationship with the artist James Michalopoulos and for the last 2 years the gallery has been devoted to the paintings of Michalopoulos. The artist is a native of New Orleans but also does a lot of work on San Francisco houses and landmarks.
Up to four times a year Octavia Haze has been open at night for people to have a chance to meet James Michalopoulos. This is a wonderful chance for the residents of Hayes Valley to enjoy free food, free drinks (the artist also is a maker of custom rum) and the good vibes of great paintings. The gallery is also open during our frequent block parties and holiday events. That means that up to 10 or 12 times a year, residents can see the paintings of San Francisco and New Orleans and enjoy the generosity of Octavia Haze. The gallery is also a supporter of local community programs. We hope the next 11 years will be as good as the last for Octavia Haze.