Artisans' Gallery in Waitsfield Village is celebrating its 20th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, an extensive renovation has just been completed featuring an expanded space, new artists and upgraded displays. There is a dedicated Fine Art Gallery as well as exceptional Vermont craft. The community is invited to an open house on Friday, June 26, from 6 to 8 p.m. Refreshments will be provided by Peasant, Mint and The Sweet Spot.
Artisans' Gallery was formed in 1995 by a group of six artisans, four of whom were regular craft vendors at the Waitsfield Farmers' Market. When the market ended for the season, these artisans were looking for a way to continue selling their crafts year-round. The founding members included Nancy Normandeau, Lori Klein, Peggy Potter, Linda Heaton, Nancy Law and "Red" Foster. Their first location was two small rooms connected to Irasville Country Store, the former home of Nelson Patch. The opening celebration featured the work of the six founders plus nine other vendors.
New Artisans' Gallery partners preparing gallery L-R: Abby Dreyer , Peggy Potter, Nancy E. Burroughs, Polly Wellford Lori Holman Klein
In 1999, Artisans' Gallery moved to its present location on Bridge Street, occupying the front room. Over the years, the gallery expanded to include the entire first floor, the most recent of which is the newly renovated Fine Art and Photography gallery in the rear. Currently, there are more than 120 artists represented, including working partners Lori Klein, Peggy Potter, Abby Dreyer, Nancy Burroughs and Polly Wellford. Nearly 20 working partners have participated in the management and operation of the gallery.
The co-op model has proven to be an affordable and equitable way to structure the daily operation. Working partners earn the largest percentage of the sale amount from their art. Participating vendors consign their work and earn more than the typical 50 percent a wholesale account provides. The partners share shopkeeping duty without pay with each partner covering one day a week. The art and fine craft inventory is on consignment which allows the artists to receive more for their work than a traditional wholesale account.
Tropical Storm Irene provided an unexpected turning point for the gallery. Bridge Street was closed and cordoned off. When sightseers and concerned citizens came to view the devastation, Artisans' Gallery was surprisingly open for business. As a result, nearly everyone found their way in the door. A new customer base was formed and business was up.
The partners have reinvested the profits that followed. A new website, new computer and point-of-purchase program, redesigned rack cards and the current expansion and refurbishing has brought Artisans' Gallery to a new level of sophistication. New artists and displays provide a fresh, welcoming vibe. An interactive wedding registry and a dedicated fine art space complete the current goals of the partners, who collectively feel grateful for the community that supports them.
