art, motherhood, and the journey of lorna york
Lorna York is the Founder and Owner of Madison Gallery, a gallery that has been a cornerstone of the contemporary art scene in Southern California since its establishment in 2001. As a curator, art advisor, and gallerist, Lorna has dedicated her career to showcasing innovative, museum-level artists from around the world. She has brought some of the most exciting and thought-provoking international artists to San Diego, creating a platform for them to engage with a new audience. Currently, Lorna is working on UNCHARTED, an exhibition featuring Max Frintrop and Donald Martiny, which explores abstract art through unique materials and techniques. In addition to her work in the gallery, Lorna is deeply influenced by her powerful all-female team and continues to be inspired by the global art community, which drives her passion for beauty, creativity, and cultural connection.
Q&A with Lorna York:
What current projects are you working on?
Right now, I’m focused on UNCHARTED, which opens on September 14th. This exhibition is particularly exciting because it brings together two incredibly talented artists—Max Frintrop and Donald Martiny—whose approaches to abstraction are completely distinct but complementary. Max's work explores color in a way that feels almost meditative, while Donald's abstract brushstrokes evolve into sculptural forms that exist in space, challenging the very nature of painting. I’m also always looking ahead to future exhibitions, but right now, UNCHARTED has my full attention.
Who is currently inspiring you with their wild and wise approach to life?
I’m deeply inspired by my team of women at the gallery. They constantly push me to see things from new perspectives and to approach our work with innovation and strength. I’m also inspired by artists who are unafraid to break boundaries, both in terms of the materials they use and the ideas they convey through their work. The art world is full of incredible visionaries who challenge the status quo and continue to show us new ways of seeing the world.
How do you personally define a curated life?
For me, a curated life is one that’s intentional, where every choice you make is about aligning your actions with your values and vision. It’s about surrounding yourself with things, people, and experiences that elevate you. A curated life is not just about aesthetics—it’s about filling your world with meaning and purpose. For me, that means dedicating time to the things I love: art, nature, my team, and my personal growth.
What are your current aspirations and vision for the future, considering both your wild creative ideas and the wisdom you've gained?
I’m constantly looking to expand Madison Gallery’s reach. My goal is to continue bringing international artists to Southern California, but I also hope to push the boundaries of what contemporary art can be. Personally, I’m striving to balance my passion for art with a life that allows me to stay connected to the things that inspire me outside of the gallery—things like meditation, yoga, and nature. I see a future where I can fully embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle, possibly spending part of the year in Mallorca, which I find deeply inspiring.
What daily practices or habits help you stay connected to your wild and wise self?
Meditation and yoga are crucial for me. They help me center myself and stay grounded. I also spend a lot of time outdoors, walking or hiking, which keeps me connected to nature and reminds me of the importance of slowing down. These practices help me maintain a sense of balance and clarity, which is so important in the fast-paced world of art curation.
How has your community or network influenced your current projects and ideas?
The art community here in San Diego has been incredibly supportive in my efforts to introduce international artists to the area. I’m part of a vibrant network of gallerists, collectors, and curators who inspire me every day. I’ve learned so much from my peers about collaboration, expansion, and fostering creativity. My team has also been a huge influence, as we constantly challenge each other to think bigger and approach our work with a fresh perspective.
What advice would you give to aspiring visionaries?
Be patient and stay true to your vision. The work you do will not always be immediately recognized, but if you stay consistent and keep pushing boundaries, it will find its place in the world. The creative journey takes time, and it’s important to embrace that process. Trust that what you’re doing is meaningful and worth the effort, even if it takes time to manifest.
What impact do you hope your current work will have on the world?
I hope that the artists I work with and the exhibitions we create at Madison Gallery will inspire others to see the world through a more abstract lens. Art has the power to transform perceptions and challenge the way we think about the world around us. I want my work to encourage people to appreciate the beauty in abstract art and to see it as a reflection of life’s complexities. Above all, I hope to inspire people to engage more deeply with the art they encounter, whether in a gallery, in nature, or in their everyday lives.