Designer Raymond Waites has begun readying a permanent space at 1313 North Main Street in High Point to house his New Vintage Gallery of original art. Waites and curator Russell Erik Berge are planning an official launch during April's High Point Market and putting plans in motion for two more galleries in New York and Florida.

The High Point gallery will remain open year-round, showcasing Waites' paintings and “furniture as art” designs alongside the work of other artists. “Yes, furniture as art — that's one of the things I'm trying to do,” Waites said. “Well, I don't know if that's the right word, 'trying,' but I'm saying furniture can be art, and sculpture as well.”

In addition to wall art, Waites' one-of-a-kind pieces include accent furniture and accessories, such as a canvas-covered Louis XV chair painted in abstract images. “It shocks you a bit, some of it is functional and some of it isn't,” he said.

A gallery opening celebration is tentatively planned for April 6, provided everything is in place. “I know I'm taking a gigantic risk,” he said. “With furniture design, I've always considered the livability of things, their place in homes all across America, but fine art is a different thing. I once heard a speech by Thomas Hoving, former director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and he said when you look at world cultures, it's the usable art that is most remembered — the vessels, the glasses, the chairs — and that's where I've always applied myself. But fine art is such a personal statement between you and your media.”

Waites is also busy readying new market introductions for Laneventure, John-Richard and The Phillips Collection, and is scheduled to appear during market week at the opening of a month-long show of his work at Auburn University's Museum of Fine Art.

Raymond Waites