Several months ago I was approached by Chris Ford, former president of Walkerville Artists’ Co-op (where I am an artist member), about the possibility of displaying some of my work in a brand new gallery, soon to be opened in Chatham, Ontario by Chris and her friend and business partner Sue Rumball.
I didn’t have to think about it for very long before I replied that I would be delighted to join them in their new adventure! I immediately began planning my wall space layout and creating pieces especially for the gallery so that everything would be ready for the March 1, 2018 opening. This new development in my life made for a very busy few months of preparation, but it was well worth it in the end, as I am thrilled to be part of the group of artists featured at the gallery.
Art and Heirloom Shoppe – Chatham, ON
The Art and Heirloom Shoppe is housed in a sweet little space at 159 King Street West in a vibrant, character-filled area of downtown Chatham. Its walls (and floor!) are full from top to bottom with the original work of some 30 artists, artisans, and crafters from Southwestern Ontario, as well as a changing selection of vintage pieces such as depression glass, furniture, and home décor items. The creative work on display represents a wide range of media including photography, painting, pottery, photosculpting, painting on feathers, ink, pencil, jewellery, sculptures, carved canes, candles, bath and body products, greeting cards, and my own Zentangle®-Inspired Art.
Laurel Storey, CZT gallery wall – Art and Heirloom Shoppe, Chatham, ON
To see many more photos of some of the amazing art and vintage goodies on display, please check out the Art and Heirloom Shoppe Facebook Page (and give it a “Like” while you’re at it!).
If you’re in the Chatham area, I encourage you to set aside some time to visit the Art and Heirloom Shoppe in person and take in the beauty, whimsy, and talent on offer. I promise that it will be time well spent – and, if you’d like to bring a piece of the Shoppe home with you, I can pretty much guarantee that you will find something that fits both your taste and budget.
Thank you, Chris and Sue, for giving me this opportunity both to expand my own horizons and to continue working alongside you and many of my fellow artists in our region’s creative community. All the best to you for the success and prosperity of this wonderful new business!
