Creators inspire hope. Hope inspires passion. Progress follow passion. Or so I’ve come to know.
When news came that Chautauqua County’s leading freelance social media content creator, Erica Rose announced the private grand opening party of her own Rose & Grace Studio in downtown Jamestown, I had to re-introduce myself. After all 2,500 sq ft of creator rental space engulfed in natural light does get the wheels turning. It also brings together a diverse group of creatives and professionals full of imagination to utilize the amazing space. Think photo and video shoots, fashion shows, pop up shows, private events, artist workshops, and more.
The creative community is such a vital catalyst to an area’s quality of life. It gives a region soul. It makes it unique. In all shapes and forms. Support local creators and watch a community thrive. In that regard, Chautauqua County is blessed with a long history of artists, writers, comedians, musicians, food & beverage crafters, and scholars. It’s also home to the historic Chautauqua Institution and the National Comedy Center.
The drive to Jamestown is a somewhat regular commute. With a little extra time before the evening activities, I slowed it down and got off the beaten path. The art of nature is abundant in Chautauqua County when you embrace it. A quick hike in the Arkwright hills along Canadaway Creek. A stop at the public park in Cassadaga with its wide view across the lake. A few hidden spots to capture the changing colors. Chasing sunlit clouds and dodging raindrops too.
I rolled into Jamestown along 3rd St. with ‘Art Scape’ banners showcasing local artist works. Past the Reg Theater with its marquee lit up. The smells from locally owned restaurants. The sounds of downtown. It truly is one of those small American city downtowns where you need to park your car and walk it.
Everything came together as I climbed the stairs of 316 Cherry St. to Rose & Grace Studio. Country day, city night. And me, fresh from landscape shoots in muddy jeans and wind swept hair amongst the area creators.
