The Nest, Norcross Arts Center
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Last week I went in search of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint for an upcoming project. Until recently I had to order it, but I discovered a new gallery and workshop that sells it in Norcross, which is about 15 miles away from here. What I expected to be a quick stop into a gallery and workshop turned into an amazing field trip for me and my kids. Chalk it Up is located within the Norcross Arts Center, known as The Nest. Lori Sturgess is the Director of the NAC, and she was so kind to us. She gave us the fairly short history of the center, shared her hopes for its future and even let us see the in-process kitchen renovation. The NAC just opened this fall and will celebrate it's Grand Opening this month. The NAC is located in the old rectory home for the historic Norcross Presbyterian Church, which is now the Lionheart Theatre Company.
We spent at least an hour there looking at all of the amazing pieces on display.
Lori's current work involves reclaimed and recycled materials. She is the Owner of Recentered Pieces. Below is one of her centerpieces on display at the NAC.
Lori was so welcoming...I'll definitely need to check out the gallery again soon. She asked my children about the art that they like, answered their questions and really made them feel excited about the artwork on display.
In the end I waffled on the paint color. I almost went with Versailles, shown on this piece.
But I opted for Duck Egg Blue:
We'll see how it turns out. This project is on my 2012 to-do list. I'm planning to paint a set of hand-me-down bookcases that belonged to my parents. They bought them from the Marshall Field's flagship store when I was a toddler, which makes almost antiques.
Reader Comments (3)
Jenn, I am a member of the board of directors and so pleased to hear your kind words about Lori and our NEST. But what caught my eye was the fact that your bookcases came from Marshall Field's flagship store in Chicago. I always went there (in the 40s and 50s) at Christmas to see the magic. Now, I can find it right here in the nest. Thanks, John
So cool to see my bird's nest on your site. I hope to have a large osprey nest fininshed before the Grand Opening on the 28th. I am Robin bird Smith, Merrylegs Farm Pottery.
Hi Jenn - So nice to read your kind words regarding my home away from home. The Nest is a great place full of talented people. Sorry I missed you the day you stopped in but so glad you had such a great time. Can't wait to see your bookcases painted in Duck Egg Blue -- such a gorgeous color. I do appreciate the nice photo of one of my end tables painted in Versailles and Old White. Thanks again,
Lynn