A photographer and woodworker, Kathy Hardwick was looking for a place to create and sell her art when she happened upon a 2,500-square-foot warehouse space in Danvers.
“I fell in love with it,’’ said Hardwick, 58, of Beverly.
She envisioned it not just as a studio for herself, but as a cooperative for local artists and crafters.
With the help of her husband, Michael Logan, and other family members and friends — including Caroline Johnson of Manchester-by-the-Sea and Mary Devin of Salem — Holten Street Creative Spaces opened a year ago.
It now features the work of 38 vendors, mostly professionals such as teachers and nurses, who “have that creative side,’’ Hardwick said.
On sale is everything from paintings to photographs, wood work, jewelry, handmade soaps, candles, books, and children’s clothing. Vendors contribute $50 a month toward the rent (two occupy studios and pay $200 a month) and keep all the proceeds from their sales.
“It’s a way for artists to not have to do the weekend shows all the time,’’ Hardwick said. “It’s a big craft fair all year long.’’
There also is studio space for artists and artisans, some of whom give classes in their specialties. And there are events monthly, such as an upcoming contest involving refurbishing pieces called “Refunk My Junk.’’
Hardwick, a native of Manchester-by-the-Sea, said Creative Spaces has attracted visitors thanks to local art associations and word of mouth.
“A lot of people like to buy one-of-a-kind things, not mass-produced things,’’ she said.
The center is nonprofit, with cooperative members taking different shifts during operating hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays.
A longtime special education teacher, Hardwick also provides opportunities for her students from the Northshore Education Consortiumin Beverly.
In September, the school will open a thrift shop at Holten Street, providing vocational training as well as a place for students to showcase their art.
“I can see it being around a long time,’’ Hardwick said of Creative Spaces. “Danvers has been very welcoming to us. There’s a lot of talent here and I think we have brought something to the community.’’
WENDY KILLEEN
Wendy Killeen can be reached at wdkilleen@gmail.com.
