THE ORIGINAL GALLERY
THE O.G.
As a graphic artist, my mind is a wild whirlwind, constantly buzzing with creative energy! I thrive on creativity and always seek new avenues to express it. In March 2021, a brilliant idea struck me like lightning. With my husband's helping hands, we set out to bring it to life. Equipped with my trusty iPad and Procreate, I sketched out a grand vision—a marvelous twist on the Free Little Library concept, infused with the charm of an art gallery. I wanted to combine the best of both worlds. Our tiny home may not be on a bustling street, but I was determined to inject creativity and fun into our neighborhood.
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I dreamed of completing the project by Mother's Day. However, with my husband frequently traveling for work, time slipped away from us. Finally, during the Christmas break, he brought the project indoors, ready to tackle it. We used recycled materials as much as possible, but had to purchase a few items, like posts and concrete, to finish it up.
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To showcase the ever-evolving art within, I set up Instagram and Facebook pages. When people visit, they can take a book or piece of art and leave behind their own creative gems. To kick things off, we've contributed a few masterpieces ourselves. It's an exhilarating exchange that I hope sparks incredible interactions! The maximum size for the artwork is a cozy 4" x 6", and any medium is welcome. Adorable easels and tiny art enthusiasts exploring the gallery add to its whimsical charm.
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Beneath it all lies a whimsical fairy garden, filled with delightful surprises. Each nook and cranny unveils a miniature world—a cozy camping site, a charming bakery, an ice cream shop where dreams come true. It's a world where imagination runs wild, and it makes my heart so happy to see little ones pointing out their discoveries. You may even find a few Disney characters hidden among the gnomes.
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We've had well over 100 pieces of artwork come through, along with tons of books! On the other side, the theme changes from time to time. We've hosted a food pantry, seed exchanges, a Hot Wheels car garage, and, for the month of May, an area advocating for mental health awareness featuring items like calm strips, stickers, paint, watercolors, and fidget toys.
WANT TO HELP DONATE
ITEMS FOR THE ORIGINAL GALLERY?
WANT TO HELP DONATE
ITEMS FOR THE NEW GALLERIES?
A NEW VISION
THE FUTURE
I am expanding my original Happy Little Art Gallery project to reach a wider audience in the Greater Cleveland area. Initially, I will launch 12 galleries, each uniquely themed around coping skills, mental health resources, and engaging activities. These galleries will be self-standing and moveable, ensuring easy relocation without causing any environmental damage. I would also like to create kits that others can purchase to put in front of their home or business.
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Approximate Size
13.8” x 11” x 13”
Description
The post will be placed inside a large planter or box, with a small fairy garden at the bottom for little visitors. Art supplies will be located inside the gallery and an acrylic brochure holder will be attached to the exterior.
Art Sizes
Average art size is typically around 3” x 5” but varies based on submissions. A sign will hang on the post detailing the project & information.
Social Media
A hashtag will be created for visitors to share photos. Social media accounts will be set up on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. A website will also be created.
Design
Will either be hand drawn/painted or a vinyl printed wrap. And will likely be smaller doodles then what is pictured.
Materials
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Pine
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Plexiglass Door
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Metal Hinges & Magnetic Knobs
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Metal Roof
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Acrylic Brochure/Rack Card Holder
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Large Planter or Box
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Small Clips & Easels to Hold Art
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Battery Motion-Activated Light