East Rochester resident Lindsey Collier-Sears was talking to Lemoncello Cafe and Lounge owner Massimo Albano about the town’s development, and Albano mentioned how he had Bistro 135 on one side of his cafe and all they needed was a gallery on the other side.
“I was thinking this space sits empty when Jackson Hewitt isn’t using it during the tax season,” Collier-Sears said. “It’s a perfect opportunity to do a trial run and see how something like this is received by the town.”
She worked out an arrangement with the owner of Jackson Hewitt, and the Collier Craft studio of local art is set to open Sunday, Aug. 1. It will be in the location until Jan. 1.
Collier-Sears, who specializes in jewelry, works part-time at Stefan Otter Fine Art Jewelers in Pittsford Plaza. She put out a call for other artists in the area to be featured and expects about 20 to have their work featured for the opening. The artists range from painters to printmakers to medical illustrators.
“Really what the space is supposed to be is like a craft show and less like a shop,” Collier-Sears said. “The artists can bring anything and see how the public reacts.”
Following is a question-and-answer session with Collier-Sears:
Q: What was the stroke of luck or moment of inspiration that made your business possible?
A: Debbie Schroeder, who is the owner of the Jackson Hewitt that is normally in this location. She had her hesitations at first, but really got on board with the project and has been helpful and involved with the development of this space.
Q: Besides your business, what is the community’s best-kept secret?
A: I would say its townspeople. Every neighbor that I have is interesting and friendly, and I’ve gotten to know a lot of people in this short time I’ve lived here.
Q: What is the movie, TV program or song that best portrays what your business is like?
A: The Decemberists have a song called, “I was meant for the stage,” and that sums up what we’re doing here. Everyone who is making these pieces does it because we have to and it’s just our destiny.
Q: If you could have dinner with one person, alive or dead, who would it be?
A: Georgia O’Keeffe.
Q: What item is always in your refrigerator at home?
A: Cold espresso.
