Discover Burlington’s New Collectible Design Scene at Nurture by Nature
Burlington, Vermont, a quaint city with a population of approximately 44,000, is well-known for its New England charm, progressive politics, and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. However, a burgeoning local interior design studio is ready to shine a spotlight on the city’s evolving collectible design scene. Founded by fourth-generation Vermonter Kate Swanson in 2020, Nurture by Nature will open its new gallery on September 4, aiming to showcase small-town creativity to a wider audience.
A Unique Gallery Experience
Nestled in a brick industrial building along Burlington’s waterfront, Nurture by Nature invites visitors to its inaugural group show titled ‘Unknown Friends’. This exhibition will highlight furniture and other creations from Northeast artists, fostering connections between artists, designers, and collectors while nurturing a vibrant creative community.
Kate Swanson, the founder of Nurture by Nature, emphasizes, “Craft is the new luxury.” After years in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Swanson returned to her home state in 2022 to reestablish her roots. She believes that collectible design transcends mere functionality, asserting that, “Each handcrafted piece reflects the artist’s individuality, making it a true form of opulence.”
The Ethos Behind Nurture by Nature
The gallery uniquely steps away from the traditional white-box format, featuring brick walls, a moody color palette, and soft drapery. Swanson’s philosophy of design being a “deeply human and collaborative process” is palpably observed within the gallery space.
The ‘Unknown Friends’ exhibition will be open by appointment only until October 30, 2025. Visitors can delve into a curated selection of collectible furniture, lighting, and decorative objects that evoke a sense of memory and recognition. Swanson highlights the diversity of the featured works, stating, “There’s no single, anchored ‘Vermont look’.” Instead, each piece invites a conversation, illustrating the many facets of Vermont’s artistic identity.
Creating Connections Through Art
The inaugural show features works by fifteen talented makers from the Northeast, including notable artists such as Natalie Shook, Luke Malaney, Ford Bostwick, Basia Pruszyńska, Chuck Van Dyck, Bechara Maalouf, and Yuxuan Huang. Each item—from ceramic vessels to bespoke furniture—embodies a distinct interpretation of Vermont’s cultural landscape. Swanson adds, “Vermont is a place that responds to its environment, welcoming those who wish to belong.”
This gallery aims to inspire not only a deeper appreciation of collectible design but also the communal ties that art fosters. Nurture by Nature is located at 47 Maple Street, Suite 307, Burlington, VT, 05401, and appointments for ‘Unknown Friends’ can be scheduled via their website.
Conclusion
Burlington’s Nurture by Nature is set to make waves in the collectible design scene with its unique gallery and a focus on local artistry. By showcasing the intricate stories behind each piece, the gallery is creating opportunities for dialogue and connection among creators and art enthusiasts alike. Embrace this new cultural hotspot and explore the beauty of collectible design in Burlington.
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