I was wandering through Lafayette Square recently, when I stumbled upon the unexpected. Blocks from the Square, there is an ivy covered pergola that leads to the studio and gallery of artist Daven Anderson. Originally from Chicago, Daven and his wife have lived in St. Louis for almost 10 years. Now retired, he focuses on his art full time. He describes his work as “urban realism” — painting scenes from city streets and urban environments. He’s done commissioned pieces for the US Coast Guard, The Sheldon Concert Hall and the Missouri Athletic Club, to name a few.  The gallery is a little more Miss Havisham than Gagosian, but I’m not complaining. My personal favorite is a work he painted of City Garden at night. And, if you aren’t in the market for a piece of art, but still want to experience the studio, Daven offers day and evening watercolor classes. Below are some pictures from my visit, but check out his website for more info and better photos of his work.