Gallery Information

The J. Cotter Gallery is an internationally recognized gallery of contemporary designer jewelry and art, featuring designs by leading artists from the United States and Europe. Opening in 1970 with the premise that jewelry should be considered an art form, J. Cotter Gallery has established a strong clientele who share the feeling that jewelry is a silent form of communication which speaks of the wearer's individual taste.

Perhaps the most important element contributing to J. Cotter Gallery's success over the years is the quality of designers whose work is on display. We seek jewelry that has a strong and mature presence, where the designers have developed their own vocabulary and the work is distinctive.

I welcome you to the J. Cotter Gallery whether you are a first time visitor or an old friend. I hope you will appreciate the service and individual attention J. Cotter Gallery is able to offer along with the selection of jewelry by the leading jewelry artists working in the field today.

Jim Cotter, the owner and main artist of the J. Cotter gallery, has a wide variety of styles that he encompasses in his work. Cotter was born in Corning, Iowa, and attended Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska where he received his Bachelors degree in fine arts education.

After reaching Colorado in 1969, he started J. Cotter Gallery, where it is still in the original location in Vail Village. Cotter then opened a second location in Beaver Creek in 1997. Cotter has been an active member of the Vail Valley art community since arriving in1969, as well as an internationally known creator of unique jewelry and sculpture.

J. Cotter Gallery displays all the different styles of Cotter's artwork. Cotter pulls inspiration from all aspects of life and nature. Cotter's most recognizable work includes the Mask Series, Jackson Pollock Series, wide band rings and the Stonewear Series. We hope that you enjoy the variety of work and please visit us at either location.