Julie spent an afternoon in a mosaic-making class at HorseSpirit Arts Gallery for her latest Julie Tries video! We were intrigued by Owner/Curator Robin Holliday and her studio, so we asked her some questions!

 

What got you into art?

I wanted to become an Artist and have my own Art Gallery since I was 11 years old, but like many people, life and a career “got in the way.”  Finally, in my early 50s, I realized it was time to do what I had always wanted, and I started HorseSpirit Arts Gallery.

I was first drawn to art though a love and reverential respect for nature. Nature is the ultimate Artist. There is something magnificent in the complex formation of the simplest things – a pinecone, a seashell, a geode – all of which I collected as a child.

I was also fortunate to have an extraordinary grandmother who raised me in my early years and taught me about the healing power of creating and appreciating art. In addition to working on the family farm, my grandmother was an Artist & Art Teacher. For over 20 years, she welcomed, encouraged, and taught the women from her rural community how to express their creativity through ceramics, quilting, oil painting, and more. Along the way, she lovingly taught me to create and appreciate art.

I believe that Art – whether creating it or experiencing it – can help mend a broken spirit, provide enormous joy, and inspire us. I believe that by connecting with the beauty and goodness in life, we can find the best instantiation of ourselves; to become the people we always hoped we would be and offer whatever strength and light we have within ourselves to help others find their way.

So in 2013, I fulfilled my life-long dream and created HorseSpirit Arts Gallery. I wanted the Gallery to be a place of refuge, a sanctuary from the outside world. I hope that people find art that speaks to them…means something to them…and then take it home to their sanctuary.

 

Why did you choose Savage Mill?

I was drawn to Savage Mill for its established Art Community, the way the Mill embraced small businesses, its charming and historic atmosphere, the large number of supportive and friendly fellow women business owners, and the supportive Mill management.

 

What is something not everyone would know about HorseSpirit Arts Gallery?

When I am looking for Artists to join my Gallery, I value an individual’s kindness as much as their talent. HorseSpirit Arts Gallery is much more than just a random collection of talented artisans. We are a community that cares for and supports one another.

 

What type of art is in your gallery?

HorseSpirit Arts Gallery is an eclectic, up-lifting gallery that represents the original creations of over 45 local talented artists who are also kind souls. The Gallery is located in Savage Mill’s Cotton Shed Building (Barn) – a beautiful, large (3500 sq. ft.) open space. Our artwork includes Paintings, Sculpture, Mixed Media, Photography, Glass & Mosaics, Jewelry, Ceramics, Woodworking, and Fiber & Wearable Art.

 

Can anyone do your classes?

HorseSpirit offers a wide variety of art classes taught by Gallery artists. While a few of the classes are intended for intermediate or advanced students, the vast majority are for anyone at whatever level of experience they may be. So, join us and explore your inner Artist!

 

About HorseSpirit Arts Gallery:

Located in Historic Savage Mill’s Cotton Shed Building, Owner/Curator Robin Holliday and her dedicated team represent over 45 local artists. HorseSpirit Arts Gallery is open Wednesdays by appointment and Thursday-Sunday 11 am – 6 pm.