Vesuvio’s

The Marcus Ashley Gallery in Lake Tahoe, California is a memorable getaway for tourists who enjoy spending time admiring works of art. From woodwork and bronze sculptures to oil and watercolor paintings, the gallery is a one-stop destination for art enthusiasts. Collectors of Impressionist art, in particular, will be thrilled to explore the Michael Flohr art on display.

In this piece, the artist captures the energy of the Vesuvio Cafe, a frequent haunt of writers, artists, and poets in the 1950s. After Lawrence Ferlinghetti opened the City Lights bookstore next door, the café became a popular hangout joint for the Beat Generation.

The Beat Generation comprised Allen Ginsberg, Gregory Corso, Gary Synder, and Jack Kerouac. After WWII, the members banded together with a common goal to disrupt societal conformities and conventional writing. Much like jazz, the works of these poets and writers were spontaneous, unstructured, and steeped in emotional freedom.

Flohr paints Vesuvio’s from a bird’s eye view, capturing the main seating area below and the upstairs balcony. Guests enjoy drinks over conversation amidst a flurry of cadmium red, bright yellows, rusty oranges, and muddy browns. The artist’s classic square-shaped brushwork reanimates the San Franciscan cafe’s memorable vibe. Vesuvio’s will make a splendid addition to an upbeat cafe, restaurant, lounge, or bar.