By Beth Sluys
Northside News
When Andrea Richichi bought the building located just off of Roth Street, near a future city park and a rising apartment development, she was excited about the opportunity to showcase the work of area creatives. Love of community and sharing the creative work of local artists and craftspeople helped to frame the decision to start her business called mindfully inspired (yes, all lower case) located at 1121 Ruskin St.
The shop is a visual vacation, as you travel through jewelry, pottery, painted art, glasswork, clutch purses and much more. Richichi’s enthusiasm for the handcrafted item is clearly at the forefront of this gallery space. With over 34 artists represented, the offerings are fun, spirited, colorful and unique.
“We offer something for everyone and provide a venue for local art and craft. We provide area artists and craftspeople a place to showcase their work as well as a space for teaching classes,” said Richichi. Artists interested in placing their work at mindfully inspired have several options for showing their work, ranging from managed consignment to a working member opportunity.
With cozy patios open to the back side of the gallery space, Richichi wants to provide an open-air reception space as well as a spot where local groups can gather. Fostering creativity is clearly what this business is about, but so is fostering community.
A fused glass windchime workshop on June 7, 10 am–1 pm, will launch the summer calendar of events. Make your way to mindfully inspired during their summer hours: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday–Saturday, 12–5 pm. For more information about events, hours and artists at mindfully inspired, visit mindfully-inspired.com.
