A Brief History of Handscapes Gallery
Handscapes Gallery began about 25 years ago in the historic
sailing village of Beaufort, North Carolina. Two small
galleries existed near each other. Front Street
Gallery was owned by jeweler Jane Minihan and managed by
glass artist Alison Brooks. The Potter's Place, a
combination health food store and pottery shop, was owned by
Jeanne Douillard, a local potter.
When Jane Minihan decided to move to the West Coast, the two shops combined forces and became Handscapes Gallery. Jeanne Douillard retained ownership and Alison Brooks took an active role, but the gallery was run much like a co-op, featuring local artists who also worked in the shop. In 1986 Jeanne Douillard returned to her New Englan  d roots
and Alison Brooks took over ownership of the gallery.At this time, Alison decided to give Handscapes Gallery a broader base, featuring the work of other North Carolina artists as well as local artists. She also eliminated the "co-op" aspect of the gallery, feeling that most artists preferred to spend their time being creative rather than sitting in a shop. As time went on, Alison came into contact with artists from all across the country and began to incorporate them into the gallery as well. The gallery has grown considerably over the years, outgrowing three locations. Currently, Handscapes Gallery represents over 200 artists and was named to NICHE magazine's list of top 100 galleries in 2003 and 2004. It is and has always been the goal at Handscapes Gallery to promote the American Craft movement and its artists and to provide the public with beautiful handmade goods. We also feel a responsibility to help educate people to the unique value of handcrafted items.
|
|
|
|
