Gallery Looking for a New Home

The AAA Electra 99 Co-Op Art Museum and Gallery in Newport Beach--a 26 person co-op of musicians, performing artists and visual artists--is looking for a new location.

“We found a spot in Orange that we might be able to afford but we haven’t signed a lease,” said gallery owner Richard Johnson. We don’t know if we can stay in Orange County and we’re thinking of Long Beach or Santa Monica.”

AAA Electra is housed in a ‘60s office building across from John Wayne Airport. AAA stands for Any Art Accepted. Some of the pieces now on display include a plucked and lacquered chicken with the head of a doll mounted on canvas, and a rat shellacked to a painted panel.

The 600-square-foot gallery received an eviction notice from landlord Optima Property Management. Gallery owner Johnson says his space has been home to at least 200 fee-paying members since it opened three years ago.

The gallery’s final day is Oct. 1. Organizers have scheduled benefit events through the weekend to raise funds for the move. The festivities feature more than 20 acts. The event begins at 7 tonight, and at 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at the gallery, 4320 Campus Dr., No. 118. Donation is $10 for one day and $20 for all three days. Call: (949) 838-7718.