Page 31 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2020

F orced to temporarily close her ne art gallery in downtown Ocean Springs in March because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rosetti used
the time to re ect on her future. “I just think
there’s a purpose in everything, and this time we had was an opportunity to make the best of it, and ll it up with things you didn’t get to before,” she said.
The one thing she is clear about is her desire to move forward with The Pink Rooster/Gallery Garbo and continue its role in the community. “My focus is to keep art alive in the community. I love it, I love the gallery and I love my artists. That’s what it’s all about,” she said.
Rosetti felt an immediate connection to the cottage when she saw it about 10 years ago. The structure had been built in 1914 by George Kiernan, a railroad conductor. Though it was not for sale, she was able
to purchase the property. She then transformed the 2,500-square-foot space into the ne arts gallery. Having spent 30 years helping her husband, Clell Rosetti,
run Quality Seafood in Biloxi, the Pink Rooster/ Gallery Garbo became her retirement business as she reconnected to her love of art.
Every room represents original art by local, national and international painters, a selection of wheel-thrown and hand sculpted pottery, unique jewelry creations and a variety of textile art. The people who work for Rosetti at the gallery are fellow artists who share her passion.
“It’s a feast for your eyes. If you’ve got to work some place, it’s nice to be surrounded by such beautiful things and have such a lovely boss,” Sandra Halat said. Her paintings are featured at The Pink Rooster/Gallery Garbo.
When making the decision to reopen this spring, Rosetti reached out to her employees and found they were supportive. “Everybody wants to do everything they can
to keep us functioning as best as possible during this di cult time,” she said.
She keeps the gallery’s website up to date, and has turned to social media for promotions. They provide curbside service. Doorbells have been installed at the entrances to welcome and limit the number of customers who come into the shop.
Rosetti is in the process of turning a room into a working studio for herself and fellow artists. She envisions the studio will be a place to delight guests who can see artists at work. “I am surrounded by renowned artists
and wonderful teachers so I can always ask for assistance. Visiting artists can use the space. We can have a painting session, x lunch and just stay in together,” Rosetti said.
In addition, she has created a fragrance line that was inspired by the Four Seasons statuary her father, the late Camille Garbo of Jackson, designed. An avid gardener, she still has the original statues. The Fragrances of the Four Seasons feature Libby Rose as spring, Lo La Rose as summer, Le Garbo as fall and Amo L’inverno as winter.
“It’s amazing. When I start to think about what I should do and what direction I should take, the next thing I know I’m moving forward at a pace that’s productive,” Rosetti said.
622 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs 228.875.1218 www.pinkrooster.net
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
September 2020 | 31
Linda G. Rosetti is the owner of The Pink Rooster/Gallery Garbo