These are unprecedented times and artists are finding strength in community and creativity. In this account, we hear from Taryn Fisher. You may recognize her name - we’ve featured her before. Taryn ran the League of NH Craftsmen store on Central Square in Keene, which closed down operations this past April. Well, she’s back! After many inspired conversations and the spirit to jump right back in, Taryn has partnered with a local artist to open a very special place - a gallery with an intimate experience and art that is accessible and vibrant.
We’re proud to share the story of New Leaf Gallery and Taryn Fisher, in her own words.
Tell me about your project
Master printmaker Matt Brown and I are creating an Art Gallery in Keene. Our collection focuses on original, contemporary, hand-made prints by artists. We've found a truly sweet space on Central Square with an "off-Broadway" vibe. We'll be open for business in time for the holidays.
Our portfolio of artists living and working in Northern New England showcase a wide variety of print-making techniques, including woodcut and woodblock, etching, linocut, monotype, and others. Prints are representational and conceptual or abstract. Matt makes woodblock prints using the traditional hanga method. Many of his images are of the lakes and mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire.
The aim of our gallery effort is to foster connections and conversations in the enjoyment and appreciation of hand-made prints. Though we think much of our work will be focused online through website and related social media, we are thrilled to have a space where we can collect, house, and share these beautiful prints.
What inspires you to do what you do? How are you fulfilling your mission these days?
When the Covid-19 pandemic hit last spring, I was forced to close the Keene Fine Craft Gallery. It was simply impossible to maintain a large Main Street presence as customers sheltered in place. This was a devastating loss for me, for the gallery's artists, and for the community of Keene and the Monadnock region.
Once the dust settled, I immediately began contemplating a smaller-scale gallery project, one with a strong online storefront. Matt and I noodled ideas over the summer and decided to take the plunge with this gallery project.
At The New Leaf Gallery, which is located on the 2nd Floor of 31 Central Square, Suite 10, we are taking all the necessary safety precautions. Masks are required. We are promoting a concierge-style service, with flexible appointment scheduling for private showings. We are also limiting occupancy to no more than four customers at a time. Safety is paramount.
Where do you find hope and inspiration these days?
Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, both Matt and I felt compelled to move forward with The New Leaf Gallery.
Now more than ever, the world needs art.
We are especially inspired by artists who, for the most part, have continued to make art. And we are inspired by the fact that - everywhere - people are demonstrating a tremendous capacity to adapt. While everything these days feels upside-down, people are making the ultimate sacrifice of staying apart and, at the same time, they are finding creative ways to maintain connectedness. The online space has become critically important, and remarkably vibrant.
Even now, eight months into times of economic stress and social distancing, I feel full of hope and confidence that we will come out on the other side of this crazy time with a deepened commitment to one another and with an awakened passion for community well-being.
Best case scenario, how does your business survive, thrive, and prosper in the next year?
We are stepping into our gallery project with cautious optimism. The New Leaf Gallery is an intimate, charming space where a wide selection of framed, matted, and unframed original prints is on display. All artworks are available both in the gallery and online, as well. Our website is up and running, and we have launched our social media campaign. Many folks have stopped by our "atelier" for a pre-opening tour. Creating something beautiful for all to enjoy is uplifting, and much needed.
The New Leaf Gallery is located at 31 Central Square, Suite 10 in downtown Keene, New Hampshire. Visit them on the web at thenewleafgallery.com. For an appointment to visit call or text | 978-985-4720 or email thenewleafgallery@gmail.com