On a mobile device? Try our mobile site, optimized for faster browsing.

Lost Art Salon

4.5 star rating
based on 28 reviews

Categories: Interior Design, Antiques, Home Decor, Art Galleries  [Edit]

Neighborhood: Mission
245 South Van Ness Avenue
Suite 303
San Francisco, CA 94101
(415) 861-1530
  • Hours:
    Tue-Wed 12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
    Thu 12:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
    Fri-Sat 12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
  • Price Range: $$
  • Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
  • Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Sponsored Result You Might Also Consider
Plantation

4.5 star rating 5 reviews

Neighborhood: Hayes Valley

"Completely custom.  Completely unique.  A bit on the small side, the store, not the furniture pieces and certainly not the prices.  Sure…" read more »

28 Reviews for Lost Art Salon

Sort by: Recent + Votes | Time | Rating
Photo of Propville D.

 

0

11

Propville D.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
04/22/2008

Our focus may be a little different than the  rest.... because we work with photographers and event designers, as well as prop stylists, etc, we look for a different set of qualities in business we review.

If you work in production, this is a special find. Not only does Lost Art Salon offer amazing paintings, photography and sculpture (used by Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware and numerous editorial shoots for decor 'magazines), But they generously rent their space for smaller events. Perfect for a bohemian wedding or launch party for Indy Film or book-signing.

The staff is knowledgeable, kind and attentive as well as expert in their field. Historical accuracy from art to frame. Keep Lost Art Salon in your Rolodex, they're in ours.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Shannon M.

Elite '08

18

103

Shannon M.

Sunnyvale, CA

4 star rating
05/22/2007

I LOVE the concept..."discovered" modern era (1900-1960) original works of lesser-known or unknown artists reflecting the major styles/movement so the 20th century.   The "salon" has a hodge-podge, mismatched feel that works wonderfully with the discovered concept.  You feel like you're in someone's attic or basement perusing their personal stuff.  

The art I've seen covers the gamut....really beautiful, interesting stuff and different, unique pieces.   I agree with Colin that art is subjective so will refrain from reviewing but will say that prices are reasonable and the owners are super approachable, knowledgeable and cool.

The show openings are definitely worthwhile.  They are always interesting, attactive hipsters, cool music and just a great vibe.  The parties are always themed to complement the exhibit somehow.  For a show on fashion art, they had a fashion show.  For a show featuring and artist who'd been particularly prolific in Spain, they featured a Flamenco troupe and served sangria.

I definitely recommend a visit.  If you don't suffer from acrophobia, check out the view from the roof.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Funny  (1)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Brian G.

 

8

37

Brian G.

Oakland, CA

4 star rating
08/07/2007

Imagine owning something, that you know, no one else in the whole world would have in their home, office or studio...if that excites you, then Lost Art is for you.

Rob and Gaetan rock...These two deserve tremendous accolades and I am so proud to call them friends.

Besides their refreshingly low key urbane personalities and styles, with Lost Art they developed a truly personal and inviting art experience which anyone can enjoy.  I have two significant pieces which the story of each is as special as the work itself.

I took a gallery owner there once who scolded me for allowing them to charge so little for the work..."they'll cheapen the gallery market", he stated...so hurry yer ass and get collecting before they raise their prices.

Tell them you read Brian's review...

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Yan M.

Elite '08

228

1447

Yan M.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
11/09/2006

Attended a happy hour here tonight. Very interesting location and floor space. I managed to locate the bldg and space without problems but my friend had difficulties and when I found him, he was standing at the corner of the entrance to the 101 freeway! How scary!
Well, it's not a very obvious address but once inside, it's an interesting art decor salon style space, very homey and cosy touch to it. Beautiful art pieces, more alternative and had a Mission-likeness to it.

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Toro E.

Elite '08

424

635

Toro E.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/31/2006

Never, and I mean NEVER, would I have found this outstanding art gallery if not for Yelp.  When the guy asked, 'So, how did you hear about us?'  I proudly told him, I read about it on Yelp.  

Before getting there, my initial fear was: would I be welcomed there?  Do I need to be an art expert?  Do I have to be a serious buyer?  There was no need to worry.  Down-to-earth gallery with a friendly guy, not one of those hyper-friendly annoying guys, offered original paintings from 1900-1960's at regular people's prices.    

WAY TO FIND THIS PLACE:  From the road under 101 HWY over path (13th Street / S. Van Ness Ave.), look for a three-story cream colored building with yellow lettering that reads 'POST TOOL'.  I think you can park at the spots in front of the building, although some of the spots are clearly marked POST TOOL Customers only.  I just parked on the street where there is plenty of empty metered parking.  Just left of the  main entrance to Post Tool, you'll find a dark grey door and next to it, there is a sticker that reads LOST ART SALON 303, so you know you are at the right place.  It looks like one of those locked doors where you would have to get buzzed in, but for me, the door was open.  Go up the warehouse like stair case to the third floor.  By then you'll start seeing some of the signs he put up to direct you to the right door.

People thought this was:

Useful  (4)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Todd J.

 

16

80

Todd J.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/26/2005

Finally... a fresh gallery idea. The space was very welcoming and the breadth of selection was impressive to say the least.  I especially enjoyed the many portaits that they offer in the current offerings.  Very unique, intriguing pieces for sure.   The owners were very articulate about their passion when welcoming us to the event tonight.  If you are considering some unique, affordable pieces (especially sub-$500) this is your spot.

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Funny  (1)

Cool  (3)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Melissa A.

 

3

45

Melissa A.

Oakland, CA

5 star rating
06/28/2006

I've bought something there everytime I go, because I want them to stay in business. Rob and Gaetan are such wonderful hosts you feel like you are in their home. I love art, but can't say I am an expert, just an expert in what I like. They make it accessible,  unique, and unstuffy. I also learn something everytime I go there. I haven't been to one of their shows yet, but I plan on going. It's fresh, elegant and hip all at the same time.

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of patrick g.

 

57

500

patrick g.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/29/2005

Wow. I was all set to get my cringe on before coming to the Yelp party. Art? In San Francisco? Please. I liked more than three things, more than a dozen truth be told, which alone qualifies it for 5 stars. But the homey, living room salon vibe and vintage frames really show off the art in a great non-gallery, non-museum setting.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (3)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Amanda C.

 

15

78

Amanda C.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/26/2005

Hello? Is there anything up here? They weren't kidding when they said it was hard to find the right space for this place. We got lost just climbing up all those stairs. Well worth the climb, I must say, taking us into a pleathora of vintage goods ... drawings, paintings, cermaics. I love the hippy-SF vibe this gallery offers, a uniquness all its own and far, far away from the Union Square look alikes. I enjoyed the people, the mood and the space enough to come back, frequently. And their art is an investment you might actually be able to afford ... that's because it's not real estate.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (3)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Nish N.

Elite '08

2521

1508

Nish N.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
04/13/2005

A new appointment-only art "salon" in the Mission  that showcases co-owners Gaetan Caron and Rob Delameter's found and salvaged art pieces. It's a fantastic chance to support local artists that might have been overlooked. The space is tucked away in the Mission, in the Post Tools Building, a lost treasure in itself. Rob and Gaetan are gracious hosts who will really take the time to help you find that perfect piece of art; their passion for their collection and the stories behind them is addictive. A true San Francisco treat!

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Jean W.

 

276

177

Jean W.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
06/24/2005

Incredible. My friend that is also an art dealer murmured this when she entered. Basically the owners got it just right. This space is intimate, and ultimately a frame of an incredible amount of amazing art pieces.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Phil M.

Elite '08

264

380

Phil M.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
06/02/2005

Rob and Gaetan have put together an incredible intimate art gallery where pretension is verboten. The prices are approachable and this is an opportunity for artists of the past to have their legacy remembered and rippled forward into time.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Audrey B.

Elite '08

29

574

Audrey B.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
07/06/2006

I like Rob and Gaetan for the following reasons:
1. They have great eyes for what is cool and arty and keep the prices very reasonable.
2. They are passionate about the art and the salon and their customers. The space feels special and comfortable, and not pretentious like your typical gallery. And there's wine and sparkling water and cookies.
3. They know their customers - they remember what you've bought, what you like, who you are, what your name is.....and they're honest.
Lost Art represents all that art should be about - it's a personal, intimate atmosphere hosted by your two coolest arty friends. The door is always open and you don't have to make an appointment.....if you haven't been yet, be sure to stop by!

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Justin T.

 

8

5

Justin T.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
09/16/2005

Power to the People!

This nifty little place is doing for art what Trader Joe's has done for wine - returning it to the masses where it rightly belongs.  It's about time.

Everything is priced with the well-meaning loser in mind, so you have little excuse not to trick out your new Mission pad with a few pieces of original art.  Friends, family members and potential sexual partners will appreciate your discriminating taste.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of T-Bone L.

 

87

649

T-Bone L.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/27/2005

Going to the yelp event here was like going to a house party: lots of mingling, a comfy couch, wine and finger foods.  But I have never been to a house party with such great art.  Gaetan and Rob seriously have a great concept going here.  But it's more than that.  It's all about the art.  I am looking forward to going back sometime.

People thought this was:

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Jen J.

 

40

129

Jen J.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/27/2005

From the outside you would never know that there are hidden treasures inside. The galeries collectors are genuinely interested in helping you find the best piece for you. If you love art, cheap prices, and historical stores to boot go make an appointment here. Will be worth it even if you don't buy anything!

People thought this was:

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Gerrard W.

 

0

5

Gerrard W.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
07/21/2007

The art whores are very experienced and the resident pimp has his game down cold.  Seriously, this mack is the Iceberg Slim of Radical Chic, and just a short shopping trip to this gem had my sorry-ass, no-character loft looking like a sattelite of Warhol's Factory with only 8 or 9 benjamins.  Damn it feels good to be a yuppie.

People thought this was:

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Colin S.

 

31

153

Colin S.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
05/26/2005

I just got back from the gallery. Wonderful space to view the great art. Of course, art is so subjective I won't make an ass of myself by trying to review it. After seeing a pretty girl sprawled on the couch my friend said, that's Oksana - and I remembered that she had some nice art on her profile which inspired me to put some of my photographs on my profile. The biggest compliment I can give to Lost Art is that it inspired me to put my art out there. So thanks for that.

People thought this was:

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Carma w.

 

6

30

Carma w.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/28/2005

Maybe I've always been a little "lost" myself, but I felt at home here.  Years ago I withdrew from commercializing my art, but someday might actually put my own artwork there -- that's really a major step for me (not even one man will leap, nor mankind).  As an artist I reserve the right NOT to rationalize but I'll try to explain why:  first, the owners are gentle men, unpretentious yet insightful, they have a good eye (or four, or maybe eight if they wear glasses sometimes) for figurative art, plus they're not greedy (cost to value ratio is subjective in art).  It's a place I'll check out from time to time just to see there, and feel sure I'll buy there someday when I can.

People thought this was:

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Michael E.

Elite '08

325

576

Michael E.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/27/2005

Awesome concept for an anti-gallery. Cool loft that houses really cool found art that is fixed up and put on display. Some of it is a little garage sale looking, but some of their finds are pretty amazing. It feels like an old living room with a very comfy couch. Gaetan and Rob are definitely cool guys who will make an appointment with you to buy some relatively inexpensive, quality artwork.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Stellah D.

 

142

365

Stellah D.

New York, NY

4 star rating
04/13/2005

Lost art events are one of my favorite salon parties. Not only is the art interesting and affordable, the people who come along are invariably hot and smart as well. If that isn't enough, there always seems to be a veritable river of good wine and champagne.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Lula Mae W.

 

76

440

Lula Mae W.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/27/2005

Some seriously unique vintage art--some very typical of the mid-century epoch and even more with the power to be of but in certain ways transcend the era of their creation.  The space and display of the pieces invites you to wander and see what speaks to you.  Bonus, if something does catch your fancy, the prices are such that you might actually take it home.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Kris H.

 

51

155

Kris H.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
12/08/2005

Art works that have had little or no attention yet are incredible and are indeed "Lost" have found a home in this very hidden unassuming gallery.

I have been to many galleries in downtown and saw an exhibit for many of Joan Miro's paintings so I appreciate abstract artists as well. There is a great representation of styles but the period they collect is 1900-1960's - including the frames.

A very interesting, informative history of this period and the pieces by Gaetan. I have my eye on a Jack Wilson abstract painting....and the prices are great!! I also feel welcome as if in someones home..its a great space and nice atmosphere inside. These guys deserve all 5 Stars!!!

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Deb T.

 

41

221

Deb T.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
05/28/2005

Love the idea and the feel of this place.  The owners are friendly to boot.  I still think that in addition to the acupuncturist who will be setting up his business in the upstairs room, there should be mimes and clowns doing performance art on the roof, bewildering the drivers on the Mission/Duboce offramp and causing as many accidents as possible.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Mara H.

 

23

33

Mara H.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
02/03/2006

My fiance was so sick of me begging for art that we can't afford to dress up our bare walls so for my birthday he made us a private viewing at Lost Art Salon.  What an experience!  Rob invited us in, treated us to wine and chocolate while telling us about the gallery and then let us explore.  We picked out an awesome, affordable painting and said goodbye to a boring, lifeless livingroom wall!

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of B H.

 

2

99

B H.

Albany, CA

5 star rating
10/21/2006

If you enjoy art, Lost Art Salon is a must visit.  The salon carries a great selection of art, all at affordable prices.  I especially appreciate the fact that Lost Art Salon is so unique- check it out!

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of kenya l.

 

11

25

kenya l.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
08/23/2005

lost art is worth finding if you:
-have just begin collecting mid-century furniture and you want the art to prove it
-need help. the two (super hot) partners are so genuinely kind it's ridiculous
-are cheap...but want to buy something special.  each vintage piece comes with its own history on an adorable handwritten library-type card
-have a little time to kill. its the perfect place to lose an hour on a rainy day, go to on a first date, or bring visiting friends who'd dig seeing some real beatnik paintings instead of the gg bridge.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of alex j.

 

2

28

alex j.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
05/27/2005

gaetan and rob - the hosts with the most ;-)

went to a salon event here last night; what a great space (used to be Om Records headquarters, i guess), and a great use of of space!  

some of the art is truly garage-sale-WHACK! but some of it is really cool.  all in the eye of the beholder, i suppose :)  

plus they've got evening hours so you can cruise by on your way home...

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Funny  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

1 to 28 of 28  
Write a review

People Who Viewed This Also Viewed...

  • Photo of Receiver Gallery
    Receiver Gallery
    5 star rating 14 reviews
    Neighborhood: Mission
    Category: Art Galleries
  • Photo of Studio Gallery
    Studio Gallery
    5 star rating 16 reviews
    Neighborhood: Nob Hill
    Category: Art Galleries
  • Photo of Creativity Explored
    Creativity Explored
    5 star rating 21 reviews
    Neighborhood: Mission
    Category: Art Galleries
  • Photo of Schein & Schein
    Schein & Schein
    5 star rating 13 reviews
    Neighborhood: North Beach/Telegraph Hill
    Category: Antiques
  • Photo of Hang Art
    Hang Art
    4.5 star rating 19 reviews
    Neighborhood: Union Square
    Category: Art Galleries

More Related Lists

Hot and New

  • Zebulon
    3.5 star rating  280 reviews
    Neighborhood: SOMA
  • Lolo
    4 star rating  119 reviews
    Neighborhood: Mission
  • Tuttimelon
    3.5 star rating  248 reviews
    Neighborhood: Outer Sunset
  • Caffe Ambrosia
    4.5 star rating  103 reviews
    Neighborhood: Financial District
  • Eiji
    4.5 star rating  247 reviews
    Neighborhood: Castro