by Georgia

The folks in the City of Katy (aka Old Katy or Katy Proper) keep an eye on the Real Estate transactions watching for signs of a long heralded transformation. They speculate that one day Katy Proper will be a desired shopping destination (like Old Towne Spring), or better yet a profitable investment (like Bellaire). They watch with interest as one by one the old residences in the commercial zones convert into business enterprises.

In 2003, one such property was purchased by the Sierras, Katy residents with their roots in the Oil industry. Sylvia is a local artist and her goal to establish an art gallery for the community seemed a perfect match for the old house on nearly an acre. The Sierra’s spent a year and a ton of money restoring the 1910-built wood frame structure. Complying with City of Katy’s strict commercial codes and standards is no easy feat. The finished project was named The Pink Magnolia and opened its doors in December 2004.

The Pink Magnolia has grown to 3 functions. First and foremost, the Pink Magnolia is an art gallery. Art galleries take years to become lucrative, so to help pay the overhead The Pink Magnolia is also available as a reception facility. And recently, the Pink Magnolia became a Friday night music venue!

I have a personal affinity for each of these functions.

The Art and gift gallery:

As an advocate for appreciation of original talent, I’m delighted to see an art gallery in Katy. The old bungalow has been lovingly restored and is a well suited vehicle for displaying/viewing art. The rooms are quaint and intimate and the hard wood floors glisten as track lighting illuminates pieces on the walls. Sylvia has a great eye and has assembled wonderful pieces. Sylvia is also the kind of dealer who would welcome those browsing for the sake of enjoying the art. The antithesis to trendy galleries with cold, steely contemporary settings, the homey bohemian feel of The Pink Magnolia pairs well with Sylvia’s friendly welcome. The Pink Magnolia’s recognizes that not all art is framed canvas; they also offer a variety of unique “artsy” gifts, teas, etc. What I like most is that Sylvia knows where to draw the line between arts and crafts.

The Reception Facility:

The Sierra’s have crafted a unique Eden-like setting at The Pink Magnolia that is also available as a reception facility. The “back yard” has a series of patios under a canopy of stately live oaks that is reminiscent of back yards of yesteryears. Lush landscaping is accented with ambient lighting and there is a welcomed absence of mosquitoes! A large cabana serves for indoor seating or catering set up, and stereo for music. Also, canopies are available to rescue your event from sun or rain. The facility has gained popularity for weddings, corporate affairs and “landmark” birthday celebrations.

Our own children contracted The Pink Magnolia for a Surprise 50th birthday bash for us this fall. My daughter reports that the Sierra’s were easy to work with and the staff was professional and classy. Normally, we’d invite guests to our home. But The Pink Magnolia was a smart compromise; as inviting and warm as home, but the conveniences to handle a large crowd. I recommend them highly!

A music venue:

The fall of 2007 saw a new venture at The Pink Magnolia…. After hours Friday nights! They provide the musicians while you bring your own refreshments and friends. The $15 cover charge is all inclusive, no cork fee, no gratuity fees, no hidden taxes. That’s right; you schlep your own Schwepps and vodka, lug your own lager, or bring your own Bordeaux and then sit and enjoy the music from 7pm to 10pm. (That’s 30 bucks a couple for a nice evening of entertainment folks and if you’ve been out anywhere in the last couple of years, you know that’s a very fair price!)

True to the art gallery concept, the Sierra’s showcase musicians who are artists. The calendar varies from Flamenco to Jazz to Rhythm & Blues, etc. They are not seeking to draw clientele from Mo’s or hone in on proceeds from the Juke box at the Icehouse. It’s very much an adult thing. You are their guests for a pleasant evening of music under the Texas stars, or if determined by weather, the music will move indoors. The patrons are friendly; sharing cork screws and stories… we had a great time!

As one gets to know the Sierra’s, their value to our community becomes clear. I’m hopeful they will find a loyal clientèle that appreciates the unique gift they offer in the town of Katy.

(PS Drive responsibly; support fine art… not traffic fines!)

http://www.thepinkmagnolia.com/index.html