The Joanna

Situated on the outskirts of the University of St. Thomas campus is The Joanna. At first glance it is easy to mistaken it for any other house, but don’t be fooled by its exterior.

Owner, Brian Rod lives in the house which doubles as exhibition space for local artists. The garage, backyard (which shares a stone wall with the Menil's Byzantine Chapel), hallway, dining room and living room are all converted into a laid back art gallery. Rod works in conjunction with partner Cody Ledvina to throw together last minute, intriguing exhibits that draw crowds typically in their 20s and 30s.

Their on-the-fly philosophy is clearly reflected in the name of the gallery which is said to represent a fictional “13-year-old chain-smoking promiscuous trailer-park belle” named Joanna.