We're moving and we're sooo excited about it.

This is no small move.  We're more than doubling our classroom space, gaining tenants, enlarging the store, and adding art framing to our practice.

Back in March of 2020, I approached a local landlord and asked her if she'd ever consider selling her building.  Caught off-guard, her immediate response was no.  I knew it was a long shot because she hadn't listed the building, but to be honest, it was really hard to let it go because every time I imagined Kate's Art School in its next location, I pictured her building.  I knew I wanted to own my next building, and because she wasn't immediately open to the idea, I kept my eyes peeled for other locations.  Few buildings became available and the ones that did, although I could figure out how to make them work for me, never felt completely right.  

After seven months of searching, I decided to re-approach her,  and for whatever reason, she felt that selling the building was a better idea then before.  On top of owning the building, she runs a beautiful store in the front: Tiny Pair Tree.  Neither of us wanted her to move the store.  In fact, during our negotiations, I gave her a letter listing all the reasons I believe that her store should stay put, and how we could mutually benefit each other.  

Currently, Kate's Art School rents a 1200 square foot unit in Fountain Plaza, located right next door to Hungry Howies.  I have enjoyed the walk-up traffic from pizza diners, and am hoping to still have that in my new location on The Square near Village Creamery.  Our new building will rent out the apartment above, as well as The Tiny Pair Tree in the front.  The 5000+ square feet in the back will be all for Kate's Art School.  Our new space will allow us to have a second classroom, in order to get more students in during the coveted 5:30pm class time.  It will also allow us to expand our retail area in the front and add framing to our practice.  

In the fall, a friend and local framing business announced their plan for retirement: A Frame Above.  I approached them about selling all of their framing equipment, which has sat in storage all winter, waiting for our big move, and actually it does need to sit there a bit longer.  We've purchased the building, but we will be transitioning the building to be a school, and that will take time.  

I'm not yet ready to disclose the exact timeline, but it will be this summer.  Stay tuned to our Facebook and Instagram Profiles for more on the move.