The Gallery Row artwalk on Thursday April 10th, 2008 was the kick-off event for the first annual L.A. Art Weekend.  "A History of Passion" by Clara Berta opened at Stella Dottir in conjunction with the inaugural festivities.  Located in the heart of downtown L.A.'s Gallery Row, Stella Dottir is a hybrid retail and gallery space.  Clara Berta's exhibition highlighted the district's current efforts to embrace the visual arts and present relevant, cross-cultural perspectives that reflect the city's diverse population.

    The show was listed in the LA Weekly and documented by the press photographer for Angeleno Magazine; the opening of "A History of Passion" was a huge success for breakout artist, Clara Berta. Hung in the bohemian, eclectic environment of Stella Dottir's studio, "A History of Passion" provided an interesting mix of haute couture and fine art.  Throngs of visitors packed the gallery to view Berta's mixed media paintings and monoprints.  Visitors purchased both paintings and dresses while enjoying the crowded yet intimate reception.  Influenced by the bacchanalian atmosphere of the surrounding Gallery Row events, Berta's opening transported its guests to what felt like a private party at the home of a seasoned collector and fashionista.