Rockville Retro to host Artisan Shoppe & Studio Grand Opening Saturday

Dane Bohnert and Lori Patrick, owners of Rockville Retro, are not just business owners in Rockville, they are problem solvers. 

Such is the case with the Artisan Shoppe & Studio grand opening this Saturday, June 6. The event, which will be held at 113 S. Jefferson St., Rockville, will begin at 11 a.m. and last until 5 p.m. and is the result of a need the two saw.

"When Dane and I learned late last year that Off The Square Artisans in Rockville was closing permanently, we were very sad and concerned. We did have several artisans sprinkled throughout our Rockville Retro store, but Off The Square Artisans was a favorite of ours to visit. We are both very passionate about art for many reasons. Art is a form of expression that values creativity and self-expression. Art has the incredible power to move us, to make us feel something and to tell a story. Art has the ability to inspire, create joy and provoke thought. Art helps us connect with ourselves and with each other. We wondered what would happen to all of these amazing, talented artisans and where would we go to see and purchase unique handcrafted items," Patrick told The Parke County Post. 

After spending some time discussing it amongst themselves and with Holly Hannum, who owned Off The Square Artisans, Patrick and Bohnert decided to ditch the plans they had for the main floor of the second building on the Square and instead create a space for artisans from all over. 

"We are so happy and grateful that we made that decision because art belongs in and deserves to be highlighted in Rockville and Parke County," Patrick said. 

As a result, the Artisan Shoppe & Studio is a real thing and will host its grand opening Saturday. 

Patrick said the shoppe is filled with handcrafted artwork, pottery, woodwork, stitched items, jewelry, soap, metal art, upcycled art, leatherwork, crochet and 3D art. 

There's so many unique,handcrafted items to see and the day will be full of fun activities. Art invites us to see the world through a kaleidoscope of imagination," Patrick said. 

The fun includes a grand opening cake, treats from Golden Forrest, live artist demonstrations, artist meet and greet, fresh cut flowers, a fun dry brush ceramic workshop and drawings every hour for prizes. 

Rockville Retro Rockville Artisan Shoppe and Studio, 113 S. Jefferson Street Rockville, will be open Wednesday through Sunday: 11 am to 5 pm and closed on Monday and Tuesday.  For more information, call or text  317-728-9551.