Will the gays leave Midtown for the new Buckhead Kai Lin Art?

You could always count on Kai Lin Art, the gallery formerly located in the heart of Midtown on Peachtree St., to bring out the gays for an exhibit opening. Wear a trendy outfit, drink a free Vodka cocktail, be surrounded by interesting artwork—what’s not to like? Therein lies a business problem: Midtown gays are great at going to parties, not so much spending money on art. You know who is spectacular at spending money on art? Buckhead Betties. So lo and behold, Kai Lin Art is moving—and expanding!—to Buckhead.

The gallery unveils its new 4,300 sq. ft. space (700 sq. ft. bigger than the Midtown location) with the exhibit “Monsters 2.0” tomorrow night. The show, featuring favorites Jon Arge, Matt Belfi and Tim Boyd, among others, is a follow-up to the successful 2010 show “Monsters” which presented local illustrators interpreting the more-whimsical-than-gruesome theme. The exhibit, which runs through Sat., Oct. 22, will be the gallery’s largest to date with 14 artists showcased in total.

But even more exciting at the new address near the Buckhead Theatre is Kai Lin Shop. It seems unlikely in a recession for a gallery to expand, but that’s exactly what owner Yu-Kai Lin is doing with the new retail element. The shop will feature jewelry, toys, stationery and gifts from emerging and established artists, all under $100. I’m waiting on more from the Kai Lin lifestyle brand. Kai Lin Eats? Kai Lin Toiletries?

The question remains: Will the gays leave the Midtown bubble to support Kai Lin Art in Buckhead? Only God knows, but truthfully, those Betties can throw down a Vodka drink (and some prescription pills) with the best of them.

“Monsters 2.0” Opening. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9. Through October 22. Kai Lin Art and Shop. 3096 Roswell Road. 404-408-4248. www.kailinart.com.