Tony (left) and Anthony Zarkades, the father-son duo who founded Chapman Art Gallery, pose in front of the many pieces available to customers. As the gallery becomes more established in Orange, Tony hopes to bring in local artists and experts for an educational art series.
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The Chapman Art Gallery
Father-son business partners Tony and Anthony Zarkades framed a new chapter in Old Towne with the opening of Chapman Art Gallery, located right above Hector’s on the Circle. Since July, they’ve been welcoming customers with a collection that reflects their motto: “Art is for everyone.”
From landscape paintings to maritime scenes, lithographs, vintage advertisements and more, they aim to create a space where visitors can explore diverse art forms.
“We have an eclectic collection here to appeal to anyone who wants to come in and learn a little about different pieces of art,” says Anthony. “We want to make art open and accessible for people.”
They also hold inventory with local significance, including original 1900s citrus packing labels from Charles C. Chapman, the citrus magnate and founder of Chapman University.
Tony’s love of art started as a hobby, particularly with works from the Hudson River School. But when his daughter and fiancé moved to Orange, he saw the potential for something more.
“I remember visiting antique shops here in the early 1990s, and I want to bring that art back again,” says Tony. “I hope to be one of the first of several art galleries that launch in the Plaza.”
This is the first time Tony and Anthony have teamed up for a business, and the partnership has been a success.
“Our opinions matter to each other and we listen to each other when we’re making decisions, so it comes out to the best possible scenario,” says Anthony. “My dad handles the business side and buying the art, and I handle the day-to-day at the gallery. It’s a great mix.”
As the pair become more acquainted with the local art scene, Tony hopes to engage more deeply with the community and introduce new people to the world of art. He sees their business as part gallery and part museum, where visitors can enjoy the artwork and discover more about the artists through detailed descriptions and background stories.
Tony is taking art classes at Orange Coast College to expand his knowledge of the pieces he curates. He’s eager to better understand the nuances of the artwork and to share that insight with those who visit the gallery.
“I love being around the art and seeing how much effort and time the artists put into their craft,” he says. “It makes my day to be around all these beautiful paintings.”
The Chapman Art Gallery
112 East Chapman Ave. #A1, Old Towne Orange, CA 92866 / 714-580-4645
