When John Park was laid off from his insurance job after 24 years, he turned to his passion for painting.
"I wanted to do something more fulfilling, and this has more than exceeded my expectations," Park said. "The business alone, in the first six month, we did what we anticipated doing in the first year. And to do that in this economy, I'm thrilled."
The official one-year anniversary party/showing at Park Schreck Gallery is scheduled for May 4 at 7-10 p.m. The 1,300-square-foot facility has special showings once every six weeks or so, highlighting up to four artists.
There will be evening showings on Feb. 3 and March 16.
Park Schreck Gallery focuses on the work of emerging artists, often with a contemporary and modern look.
Park said about half of the artists on display at the gallery are from the LGBT community.
"The focus of the artists [ chosen to be showcased at the gallery ] is those who are under-represented, artists with great talent," Park said. "We really are about the long-term relationshipsof our clients and the artists."
Park Schreck Gallery is located at 1747 W. North Ave.; call 773-309-1747.
THE STATS
Age: 47
Neighborhood: Buena Park
Hometown: Boston
Job title: Owner, Park Schreck Gallery, which opened in April 2011
Relationship status: Partners with Mike Ryan, 48, an associate media director
Favorite local restaurant: Joy's Noodles & Rice
Favorite TV show: Revenge
Coming out; In 2000: had been married ( to a woman ) for 13 years and has three daughters ( ages 19, 22 and 24 )
Quote: "I'm happier now than I've ever been in my life."
Photos by Ross Forman