Love for modern art keeps gallery owner Mark Quint connected to community

Mark Quint grew up in this area and went to college at the San Francisco Art Institute and then taught art in Hawaii for five years. Quint opened a contemporary art gallery in La Jolla in 1981. Quint Gallery has held more than 250 exhibitions during the past 31 years. Located on Girard Avenue next to Harry’s Coffee Shop, the gallery is currently showing work by San Diego artist Jean Lowe.

Quint lends his support to the Emilio Nares Foundation, The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, and the San Diego Center for Children. He is also on the advisory committee of the La Jolla Community Foundation’s murals project.

Who or what inspires you?

All the fantastic artists I work with, including Kim MacConnel, Robert Irwin and Jean Lowe.

If you hosted a dinner party for eight, whom (living or deceased) would you invite?

My mother, who passed away last year, my girlfriend Kellie, the artist Manny Farber, Keith Richards, Robert Irwin, Sofia Vergara, Oscar Wilde — and me.

What are you reading?

Right now, it’s “The One: The Life and Music of James Brown.” The Godfather of Soul was one strange dude. I am also reading “1Q84” by Haruki Murakami. I am on page 720 and I keep hoping it will get better. It has not. I don’t recommend it.

What is it that you most dislike?

Temptation. As Oscar Wilde said, “ I can resist everything but temptation.”

What is your most-prized possession?

A Telecaster guitar I bought when I was 19.

What do you do for fun?

Hang out with my dog, play guitar, daydream, visit Kobey’s Swap Meet, and buy and sell art.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I like to think it is adaptability.

What is your motto or philosophy of life?

Keep on keeping on.