It all Starts with an Idea
It all starts with an idea.
I just didn’t know that idea was actually going to go somewhere.
Let’s rewind a little. Eight months ago I was living in San Diego, California and facing what, at the time, felt like an impossible choice. Do I leave my friends and art community in a city I was still new to, or do I go back to New England and gamble it all on the love I had for a boyfriend?
The rational person, probably, would have stayed. But when it comes to things I can see potential in, I’m not one to make decisions based on the current moment. It’s a blessing and a curse, I guess, but it’s lead me to some interesting places. And if I had never left San Diego, I wouldn’t have realized what a gem Gorham, New Hampshire is.
I knew I wanted to open a studio as soon as I learned we were moving here and that there wasn’t an art space within a thirty minute drive. It was surprising, considering how many artists there are in the North Country, but I think it was really just a sign that this was the right place to be.
I also knew that in areas like this (so simliar to where I grew up), life and networks are all about word-of mouth connections and that friends keep you sane. Thankfully I met some amazing people as soon as we arrived and was able to participate in some local craft shows and even host some pottery painting at Deidre’s gallery (The 3 Sisters Gallery). Through Deidre, I met Liz and Cheryl—two amazing ladies who also love pottery.
Then with Deidre and Liz I helped organize a winter pop up market for a group of talented local folks. Of course Liz’s cookies sold out as soon as we opened the door! The market was also an interesting experiment for Alyssa, at Flourish, who was going to be moving her shop down into the cellar space.
And that meant that there was a vacancy at 115 Main.
Anyone who has lived in Gorham knows how delicious Liz Jackson’s cooking is. The SaAlt & Libby’s menus are legends of the past, but Liz’s dinner parties are still a coveted invite today. These events are special to her heart and when she shared that she was planning on using that space for her events, I was happy for her, but also really sad because it would have been PERFECT for the studio I’ve been dreaming up.
I held my breath and manifested it to the moon and back and COULD I JUST HUG LIZ AND JUMP AND DOWN WITH JOY because it has worked out. This pipe dream that I brought with me from Cali is happening. Actually happening.
Thanks to some grants from the Coos Economic Development Fund, a gift to myself (RIP my retirement account), and emotional support of my sweet cutie patootie, plans for the studio space are taking shape.
I’ll share more later, but for now, know that something new is coming to town.
See you there, friends!
