Amid the age-old artistry of handcrafted stationery, maps and greeting cards, soothing strains of live music played in the background at Figg Street Co. Thursday night.
For five years, owner Antoinette D’Angelo has opened up her unique boutique to showcase local Canadian artists.
Called Art on the Front, the event runs from April through December, on the second Thursday of every month, and fosters art appreciation and socialization--and includes refreshments--in historic downtown Thorold.
“I’m booked to the end of next year,” the art-lover told ThoroldNews, adding that she doesn’t charge artists a commission for artwork sold during these special exhibits.
This month, she featured the fine works of artist Diane Goulet-Kozar of Welland, whose husband Dan Kozar softly strummed jazz tunes while she sold her paintings. (Called KozArt, more information can be found on Facebook).
In response to one customer’s request for a commissioned painting of birch trees, Goulet-Kozar created an immense forest on canvas of the slender, white-trunked specimens.
In addition to deluxe napkins, wrapping paper, and every type of paper product imaginable, Figg Street Co. is also filled with giftware like vintage aprons, flour sack tea towels, specialty teas, zen puzzles, and journals in all shapes and sizes.
“Florals and citrus are in right now,” said D’Angelo, “so there are lots of those elements and patterns around the store.”
Her philosophy, according to the shop’s website, is: “Today, writing and artistry are more beloved than ever. Whether one is writing or sketching in a journal, sending a card, or composing a note, the act allows us to be mindful in the moment … Whether you are the giver or the receiver, the experience is far more soulful than a disappearing text, or fleeting email.”
Located at 40 Front Street South, Figg St. Co. is a proud promoter of products made with “centuries-old craftsmanship, designed for modern-day lifestyles.”
