HOLLYWOOD RELATED TO YORKVILLE GALLERY

Talent runs in the Chriqui family. Photographer and proprietor, Serge Chriqui, brother of actor Emmanuelle Chriqui (Sloan from Entourage, The O.C., Detroit Rock City, and Snow Day) opened Scollard Street Gallery in Yorkville one year ago. After having lost their mother at a young age, and in support of each other since childhood, both pursued the arts and as adults they have been able to live their dreams and contribute to the community.

Serge began his interest in photography at the age 11 and as a young adult took his passion with him while travelling -- France, England, Cuba and Spain to name a few -- and refined his art. He was inspired by his travels and his study of Ansel Adams, as evidenced in his photographs. In addition to his own art, Scollard Street Gallery also supports and exhibits exceptional Canadian artists’ contemporary fine art, photography and sculpture in an open, approachable and relaxed gallery. There is an aura of peace upon entering the gallery followed by a sense of inspiration produced by the many soulful works on exhibit. Serge chose Yorkville to open his business because he felt a sense of connection to the area, having reminisced over the “Yorkville Days”. His goal is to contribute to the revival of the feelings and memories of those days while bringing the experience to the public.

From May 1st to 31st, during CONTACT 2008, North America’s largest photography festival, Serge will feature Godfrey Jordan’s Summer of ’69 collection of original photographs of Jimi Hendrix, John & Yoko, Jim Morrison, Led Zeppelin, Mick Jagger, Neil Young, James Brown, Bob Dylan and The Who from 1969 and beyond.

As the elder of the two, Serge is very close to his sister and proud of her accomplishments. He has supported and encouraged Emmanuelle, including paying for her acting lessons.  His investment and advice to follow her dreams has certainly paid off.  Emmanuelle has shown increasing promise in a variety of diverse roles and projects.
She recently finished production of Adam Sandler’s film You Don’t Mess with the Zohan, which also stars Rob Schneider and John Turturro. At the age of 10, Emmanuelle appeared in a McDonald's commercial. Her first Hollywood role was in Detroit Rock City (1999). Her breakout performance came in 2000's Snow Day, in which she played the foxy Claire Bonner. She appeared in rock band Hinder's "Lips of an Angel" music video in 2006. Her next project will feature her in the bio-pic Cadillac Records starring Adrian Brody and Jeffrey Wright.

Although Emmanuelle spends most of her time between New York and Los Angeles she always has the time to visit family and friends in Toronto. Whenever she can, Emmanuelle proudly talks and boasts about her brother’s photography and his gallery.  When in town she makes a point of contributing her time by motivating and encouraging others. She recently spoke at a JUMP event, an organization that facilitates connections within the community.

To be inspired, view exceptional art, and get a glimpse of a talented and artistic Hollywood brother’s work in Yorkville, visit Scollard Street Gallery. The gallery caters to novice and experienced collectors as well as corporate buyers. All are welcome. For more information, call Serge Chriqui at 647 436 9784.