Christopher Bell’s sudden, unexpected death in 1997 left a sad void in the large community of people that had enjoyed the warmth of his well known amiable, artistic spirit. Good friends in the art world came to the aid of Christopher’s devastated widow, Nancy, and kept the gallery afloat. Meanwhile, Robert and Helen Olson, professionals in the Salinas and Monterey areas for many years, were developing their own unique business of mineral/fossil art and jewelry. Christopher Bell Gallery became an esthetic and receptive marketplace for their fine arts. (People remember how Christopher himself had featured similar items within the gallery, liking them as well.)

Four years later, in the fall of 2004, Robert and Helen Olson purchased this truly exceptional venue of art, Christopher Bell Gallery. Helens’ past work in a family art business has greatly assisted the momentum of enthusiasm she and Robert have for carrying on the legacy of fine Christopher Bell bronze sculptures; and to feature the multitude of other lovely art.

Long and short time patrons familiar with the Christopher Bell Collection will continue to be delighted by artists they’ve enjoyed such as the Glenn Heath soapstone carvings, Dobrusky wood birds, Frogman bronze, the various wonderful painters, and of course very interesting jewelry. Everyone browsing the gallery will also be delighted by an array of new art in glass, gemstone carving, fossils, photography, clay and of course Helens’ ‘Dierdre Design’ jewelry. Most importantly, the visitor will find a large selection of beautiful Christopher Bell bronze sculptures, many that have not been readily available since Christopher’s death.

Helen and Robert are genuinely thrilled to renew, and continue, a vital artistic legacy in the art of Christopher Bell Gallery.

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