Chattanooga Local Restaurants + Links to Local Experiences

When I travel, I love to ask locals to recommend their favorite truly local restaurants. I often spend time with Chattanooga visiting guests explaining our downtown Free Electric Shuttle service - how to catch, the route, etc. - and sharing some of our great culinary offerings and experiences. I later created an evolving local restaurant document to share…It later hit me that I should add this to our blog section online for easy access…So here you go.

Chattanooga Local Restaurants with a Few Local Experience Links

Thanks for visiting our local artists gallery - Area 61. If you like our gallery, you’ll probably appreciate our local restaurant recommendations…This list features Chattanooga originals, award-winning and imaginative chefs, local sourcing, etc. (non-franchise or chain, though there are good ones here too)

Tip 1: Our tourist and convention district overlaps our business district, so going to dinner in casual touring attire is acceptable and welcome. You’ll see more business attire or “dressed for dinner” patrons at the restaurants in the first section below – just be comfortable and enjoy the wonderful cuisine. ** = Some Outdoor seating available

Tip 2: If you aren’t in a decision making mood, book a ChattTaste Food Tour. You won’t leave hungry and you’ll get a taste of Chattanooga’s culinary scene paired with local insights. Guided by enthusiastic Chattanooga foodies to several wonderful local restaurants based on the tour you choose, you’ll try a selection of specialties, at times introduced by the chefs who created them; the overall experience is infused with local history, points of interest and current city trends from the founder, Briana Garza, or one of her expert team leaders.

Culinary inspired fine-dining cuisine - Downtown

Hennen’s ** (Riverfront District on Chestnut St.) steak, seafood, seasonal daily features
Old Gilman Grill ** (West Village/City Center district) Americana with a French Twist – Cuisine de Famille DeFoor (in the original Gilman Paint headquarters)
Easy Bistro ** (West Village/City Center district) this award-winning chef is also the executive chef at Main Street Meats (Southside district) a more casual “bustling market-feel” as it is also an artisan butcher shop
Public House ** & The Social – (City-center at Warehouse Row); The Social is a more casual dining environment/shares same chefs & kitchen. The Chef also owns Il Primo – another wonderful Italian restaurant, in the Riverview neighborhood – modeled after the energy of a NYC neighborhood Italian restaurant.
The Meeting Place & St. John’s Restaurant – (Southside district) one of the originals in the CHA culinary explosion, never disappoints. “The Meeting Place” next door is the more casual side; they share the same kitchen and great chefs.
Alleia ** (Southside District) Italian goodness, locally sourced farm-to-table
Bridgeman’s Chophouse (West Village/City Center district) at the historic Read House, steak, chops, seafood+

More LOCAL, casual culinary experiences within the Downtown Footprint (by districts)

Mayan Kitchen ** open front windows – (City Center district 5th & Broad) Latin Cuisine & Tequila Bar (authentic Guatemalan)
Lupi’s Pizza – (City Center district 4th & Broad) – Fresh daily, family-friendly & funky - the 1st authentically local pizza place in downtown CHA
Community Pie ** open front windows (City Center/Miller Plaza) – pizza, gelato & other fresh goodness
Attack of the Tsatsu - (City Center, Patten Parkway) Ramen Shop crafted directly from an immersion in Japanese culinary tradition.
The Bitter Alibi ** (MLK/UTC district) Houston St just off MLK – culinary fusion done right – noodles, bowls, dumplings, handhelds, salads, vegan, gluten-safe & more. (They own another culinary treat - The Daily Ration ** Riverview neighborhood – a little deeper into the Northshore community, via Veteran’s bridge & Barton Ave.)
Kenny’s Southside Sandwiches ** (Southside district) the former St. John’s Sous Chef, crossed the street to fill in the other culinary hours of the day – breakfast & lunch fast & casual.
Amada (Southside District) Wine & Tapas - Traditional Spanish plates, crafted from local seasonal ingredients [generous portions for sharing, and a nice cocktail/beer list in addition to wines].
State of Confusion **– (Southside district) Peruvian Ceviche, wood-fired Argentinian traditions, New Orleans Muffuletta…culinary expertise from various global regions. The location’s former resident, a community-loved antiques “picker” whose business was called “Estate of Confusion” inspired this “confused” name and restaurant menu.
STIR **– (Southside district) a restaurant that was built around the concept of artisan ice for craft cocktails, diverse tasty menu in a section of the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo terminal building (same owners as State of Confusion above).
Main Street Meats ** (Southside district) artisan butcher shop + the “Easy Bistro” award-winning chef’s menu
Ernest Chinese ** Chinese food and Tiki Drinks…a reimagined dining experience from the owners of the neighboring boutique hostel classic, “The Crash Pad” that will replace their former bar & eatery concept of ten years - The Flying Squirrel. Whatever direction Ernest takes, their food & service experience is always a level up and in a festive environment.
Taqueria Jalisco Ania ** (Southside district) Family-owned, traditional dishes from the south of Mexico
Conga Latin Food ** (Southside district) – Fresh, family-owned authentic El Salvadorian
Alex’s Thai & Sushi Bistro - Lunch & Dinner (Southside district) Great craft cocktails and diverse rich and authentic cuisine.
Kai Bistro ** (Southside district) Authentic Asian American, including Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai and Hawaiian cuisine. Great place to expand your culinary range.
No. 10 Steakhouse ** (Southside district) steakhouse and small plates with a neighborhood laid-back vibe. The other side of the E. Main RR tracks off of Central in the Burnside neighborhood and near the Sculpture Fields of Montague Park.
Anomaly at OddStory Brewing Co. - (Southside District) OddStory Brewing Company’s taproom — beer hall inspired, social hub of the local community, a place for beer lovers to relax, drink and dine.
Hello Monty ** (Southside district) Elevated American inspired by savory grilled foods served of the south (the brother owners have a long local food & beverage history and know hospitality).
FEED Company Table & Tavern **(Southside district) 2nd restaurant for chef/owner of 1885 Grill ** (St. Elmo, base of Lookout Mountain by The Incline – fantastic too if you get over there) –FEED Co is a collaboration between Tremont Tavern owner (Riverview area) & 1885 Grill (St. Elmo) – nice pairing! They also partnered for Parkway Pourhouse ** Riverside Drive at Cameron Harbor, And most recently (2022) Frazier Five & Dime (Northshore)
HiFi Clyde’s **– (Southside) eclectic Food + Entertainment, Taco Mamacita ** (Northshore district) (Lunch or Dinner), Milk & Honey … All of these great restaurants are owned by Monen Family Restaurant Group, PLUS Community Pie  & Urban Stack
Elsie’s Daughter - French-Belgian cuisine with a nod to Appalachia, the 2nd restaurant for local culinary dynamic duo - Chloe & Ryan Smith (1st Rosecomb Bar, North Chattanooga)…Elsie’s Daughter is a jewel in the newly restored lodging accommodations - The Hotel Chalet at the Chattanooga Choo Choo
The Big Chill & Grill (Northshore district) martinis, frozen libations, variety of upscale comfort food, serves food late - LGBTQ+ friendly and fun. The owner opened another culinary hit on the other side of the river - South Riverfront summer 2018 - Scottie’s on the River ** adjacent to Spring Hill Suites – her culinary fare is always on point, and this one has location, location, location
Frazier Five & Dime (Northshore district) casual fine dining with an elevated neighborhood bar vibe (another joint culinary partnership with the Feed Co. crew).
Food Works ** (Northshore district) – L&D and a good Sunday Brunch

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN:
Cashew – (Northshore district) All Vegetarian (I’m not Vegan & enjoy healthy lunch there always.
Other Northshore area vegetarian & plant-based great options: Real Roots Café and Sluggo’s (short drive from downtown)

LUNCH MUST DO: RIVER STREET DELI (Lunch only) Go see/meet Bruce if you love an authentic NY deli …owner, Bruce, is a transplanted NY native who maintains the spirit, but is now heavily infused with Southern hospitality… (Northshore district off of Frazier Ave facing Coolidge Park, downstairs from Blue Skies (a fantastic gift shop) and Association for Visual Arts-AVA)

BREAKFAST (and/or lunch) MUST DO:
Bluegrass Grill (Southside district) family owned with strong hospitality spirit - feeding the community since the southside started revitalizing in 2007, 55 E. Main Street (our former location’s best neighbor) closed Su & M

Just Outside of the Downtown district’s footprint, worth the short drive:
Rosecomb Bar ** – (Riverview neighborhood - a little deeper into the Northshore community, via Veteran’s bridge & Barton Ave) the best flour-free fried okra ever…& more.

Rooftop Bars & Bites: Paloma at The Westin, High Rail at the Chattanoogan, Whiskey Thief at the Edwin

This list is not all-inclusive, because there are many great culinary options in Chattanooga (such as those at The Edwin, Kinley and The Westin Chattanooga hotels & the Bluff View Arts District), but you may not have found these on your own. None are paid recommendations; we just want you to enjoy Chattanooga like a local. Enjoy your stay & come back for more. - Keeli Crewe, co-owner/gallery director
Area 61 Gallery | 423.648.9367 | FB & IG: @area61chattanooga | SoundCrewe Audio

MORE LOCAL:

Getting Around Downtown by FREE ELECTRIC SHUTTLE:
Downtown Route: Downtown Shuttle | CARTA | Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority CARTA (gocarta.org)
Northshore Route: Route 2 | CARTA | Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority CARTA (gocarta.org)
St. Elmo/Incline Route: Route 15 | CARTA | Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority CARTA (gocarta.org)

Chattanooga ART GUIDE via The Association for Visual Art: https://www.avarts.org/chattanooga-art-guide

Online Arts Map Chattanooga Arts Experience Map (created by the Chattanooga Tourism Co. (CTC) – more Chattanooga fun via CTC: www.VisitChattanooga.com )

Digital News & Chattanooga-What-To-Do Publications:

The Chattanooga Pulse & their events Calendar: Weekly Digital Alternative — Local ART, MUSIC & News publication
NoogaToday: This is a daily digital news drop with short coverage of Things-To-Do that day and upcoming weekend; and here is a link to their City Guide: https://noogatoday.6amcity.com/city-guide
Chattanoogan.com: various Leisuretime options https://www.chattanoogan.com/Leisuretime/

Free Summertime Music Concerts – click through for schedule and performers:
Friday nights – Nightfall Concert Series       Saturday nights – Riverfront Nights

Architecture Walking Tour: https://www.cornerstonesinc.org/walking-tours
Chattanooga Spirits Tours: Chattanooga Whiskey and Gate 11 Distillery
ChattaScooter Art Tour: https://adventuresportsinnovation.com/product/art-tour-of-chattanooga/
Ride our historic Coolidge Park Carousel (the horses & animals were carved by Chattanoogans)

Area 61 Gallery Representation Info

We are currently not accepting new artists due to lack of space, not lack of interest in new work. We do maintain a waitlist of local* artists (Chattanooga-based or those living in the immediate surrounding areas) to be added as we remix and space becomes available.

Our selection process has evolved since our 2009 beginnings. We initially invited local emerging and professional artists to be a part of the gallery who we met through AVA and their 4 Bridges Arts Festival. Our artists referred us to other talented local artists. Artists who recently moved to the area visited and inquired about representation. The process and offerings grew organically. Artists were added when space became available and based on work style. Our intention is to offer a diverse selection of works by local artists and craftsmen that intrigue buyers and collectors whose personal tastes vary widely.

If you are local*, and would like to be added to our waitlist, please email our co-owner and gallery director, Keeli Crewe, at keeli.crewe@me.com. Include your full contact info — this includes your address — your email, cell phone and images of your work or link to your online work whether website, online portfolio, or social media platforms. 

When we remix the artist work in our gallery, we review the images for work diversity, looking specifically for styles that do not directly compete with our current representation. We’ll then contact the artist, discuss available work, interest and provide the details of our gallery business model.  

Business Model…When we relocated to the downtown City Center December 2019 from our original location in the Southside district, our business expenses and overhead tripled. However, based on our sales demographic, it was a sound business strategy to move where there is more direct interaction with out-of-town visitors who love collecting local when they travel. We are positioned in the epicenter of the conference and convention hotel district. Our business model is not an artist collective, but it is similar as there is a monthly gallery fee and the sales commission split is less than the typical gallery model of 50/50 artist/gallery split. When you are contacted as space becomes available, we will fully share the details, but if you are not interested in this business model, then our gallery isn't for you.

Our first priority is to our 30+ artists that we represent. We do everything we can to bring awareness to Chattanooga’s local artistic talent throughout the community in addition to running our gallery. We may not get back to all the requests we receive seeking representation as promptly as we’d like and that has nothing to do with your art or talent. Please don’t take our delayed response to your submission personally — be kind to yourself and true to your creative spirit. We want all artists to succeed and have a sustainable career in creating and selling art. We’ll acknowledge receipt of your submission and wait list status as soon as we can.

Thank you for your interest in Area 61 gallery and we look forward to seeing your work,

Keeli, David & Rudd

*Local - currently north of Dalton, GA, south of Monteagle, TN and Athens, TN.

Rejection: A Professional's POV

The Point of View post copied below was written and posted 7/16/23 by local artist, Tim Goldsmith — Curator and Education Director at AVA - Association for Visual Arts and an Art Professor at a local college — on his Facebook Page. We know Tim personally and professionally and this post is thoughtful, heartfelt and genuinely meant to help artists everywhere, not just in his professional realms. We also agree with everything he shares from our POV as local art gallery owners.
The more you know…
- Keeli & David Crewe, Area 61 Gallery Owners

“One of the reasons I started this particular Facebook account was to have a professional outlet around visual art in Chattanooga. Partly for my own practice, partly for ease of communication with a group of artists I serve through AVA, and also as a space for writings on topics related to galleries, curation, etc. The views below are my own, based on my own expertise and experiences as an arts professional running a gallery and as an artist.

This past week, selections were made and notices of both acceptance and rejection were sent out for one of the many exhibits that I am responsible for. The responses I received to the rejections were for the most part measured, polite and many took me up on an offer I made to meet individually with artists to discuss growth (something I have the capacity to do as a Curator and Education Director at a non-profit arts organization). I also received some intense communication from angry artists and nasty and threatening communication from one who even came to the gallery in person, which resulted in an altercation that ultimately and unfortunately involved the police.

I am also a college professor, so I like to leverage situations such as these into learning moments.

So let's talk rejection. Rejection is part of the artist's life. For every one time you are accepted to something, you will be rejected far more times. That is the nature of doing business as an artist. For every one gallery, there are numerous artists. For every opportunity, grant, residency, etc. there are more applicants than resources. And every artist approaches their work differently. In my own art career, I have received many rejection letters to things I've applied for. I've also had successes.

In terms of AVA specifically, we now serve over 300 local/regional artists, including the most students we have ever had in our roster. Much of that growth happened rather suddenly in recent months. Adjusting to big changes like that doesn't happen as suddenly. Some are students finding their own way. Some are hobbyists who just enjoy making work and want to share it with others. Others are professional artists trying to make a living and keep a roof over their heads. Others still are more established artists who don't need AVA but still want to be involved in and support the community. The needs of each group are different.

Things to consider when you receive a rejection notice:

-A few of the emails I received from artists said they "were holding off on other opportunities while waiting for news on this show." Why? Don't do that. If this is really that important, you should be working on other work, exhibits, applications, etc. One single show or gallery should not be the make or break for your entire art career. If it is, you might need to do some hard evaluations on your practice. If you have other opportunities, pursue them! You've got things to do! Don't wait around for the one gallery. And be consistent. Don't hold your "best" for one and send something "not as good" somewhere else. Put your best foot forward always. If you have an inventory that sales can't keep up with, get good documentation of those works and maybe think about recycling older works for new projects.

-If you are trying to make a living off of your work, cast a WIDE net. Chattanooga is not a unique market in that many artists cannot make a living depending on sales in their hometown. They quickly run out of friends, family members and neighbors to sell their work to. Those that do sell their work here find that they may saturate the market quickly. Many galleries that represent artists have a limit in their contracts that specify that their artists cannot exhibit their work within a certain (100-150+) mile radius of that gallery. While that might be inconvenient, it is purposeful. For one, it means that the artist is not creating a situation where two galleries are in direct competition around that one artist's work. It also means that the artist has to get outside their comfort zone and put their work in unfamiliar spaces. Many of the artists I know who successfully make a living off of their work have representation in galleries across different states around the country and pursue other projects outside of galleries.

-Be professional. Nasty emails with profanity or even whining do not cast you as an artist in a good light and on a human, interpersonal level, will not endear you to me or other gallerists to want to work with you in the future. It just shows you possess a lack of maturity and professionalism. Galleries are professional spaces. Be professional.

-Art can feel personal. I'm an artist too. I get it. Pouring time and energy into something you make with your own hands, mind and heart means that the work feels like it is a part or an extension of you. But it isn't. It's a made object. You are a whole person with worth and value all by yourself, apart from what you produce. When your work is not accepted into a show, that isn't a rejection of you as a person, or your worth, or value. If it feels that way, take a close look and ask yourself why that is. This particular show had 87 artists apply. As a curator, I made a decision based on previous years to limit the space for 30 in this particular exhibit. It was 32 the year before. 28 the year before that. This meant that 57 artists didn't get their work in. If all 300 artists had submitted, that would mean 270 wouldn't get in. I'm making plans for other exhibits in the future to address this growth. Several artists who have never shown at AVA got into the exhibit. Some artists who have shown repeatedly at AVA didn't get in. Not every exhibit is going to be a salon-style show or even thematic. This limit also allows each artist who gets into the show to have space to "shine" in the exhibit and for their work to "breathe."

-Don't threaten to stop making art altogether as a response. That's your life and journey. If you enjoy making art, keep making art. I don't know what telling me that is going to accomplish.

-Juries are ONE way of putting together a show. Jurors have biases. That's why I hire a different jury every year. A single juror may have preferences or recognize a work of art by a particular artist. That's why I hire three. When the juror is looking at your work, hopefully (and as much as within my power to prepare), they are looking at it blindly and evaluating what is in front of them. We also set forth specific categories for evaluation to remove some of the subjectivity from the process. Otherwise, you are dealing with favoritism or forms of nepotism which ultimately undermine the flourishing and opportunities for the arts in our whole community. A rising tide lifts all boats. The more opportunities there are, the more that benefits everyone.

-I often hear that the Chattanooga art scene is about connections and who you know. So are most art markets anywhere else. If you are dealing with people, you are going to be navigating a community or network of relationships with some sort of history and context. That doesn't mean those reasons are always good but it is still a reality. I know several artists who moved here from elsewhere and really struggled making headway here, and it was and is difficult. Show up to things! Engage other artists about their work. Develop relationships. When I was a kid in Chattanooga, there were like five or six visual arts spaces in Chattanooga that I was aware of that did things with any kind of public-facing presence. Now, there are over 50 in Chattanooga alone, which is incredible! Each gallery and art center has events and exhibit openings. Follow those spaces through newsletters or social media and look at their calendars. If you can't make it to all of them, pick one and start there and try to be consistent. Chattanooga had five separate art openings this past weekend! There are options.

-To the previous point, seek out community. There's a stereotype that artists are anti-social people who just want to make things in a studio somewhere and ignore the world. And while there are certainly artists who do fall adjacent to that category, artists are not islands. And, if the purpose of your art is to just put it out there without any sort of investment in the community around you, why should anyone care about your art? Seek out people (not just artists) who will support you in your work and also be honest with you, challenge you and sharpen you, celebrate when you succeed and encourage you when you fail.

-Do your research. I cannot tell you how many people come into the gallery and pull out their phone to show me their artwork and then ask me to display it in the gallery, sometimes without even introducing themselves or asking me any other questions about how our gallery functions. It literally happened on Friday. My gallery has a process. Each other gallery has a different process. Several galleries in Chattanooga have wait lists. With AVA specifically, some artists blindly join AVA as a member assuming that it means the same thing as being represented. Some of our members didn't realize we are a 501(c)(3), even though it is clearly spelled out on our website and in other places. Our gallery is only a facet of what we do, between our educational and professional development programming and festivals. Exhibits in our gallery, aside from a few member shows, are also for highlighting the work of other organizations, students and schools and goings-on in Chattanooga. If that's not something you need, that's fine. Is the gallery a space with a contemporary focus? Your traditional watercolor painting of a still life in the style of the Dutch Renaissance may not be a good fit there. That doesn't mean your watercolor painting isn't without merit. Is the gallery an academic space? There are limitations there as well, and often with a focus on creating exhibits that supplement student learning. If you find a space that feels like it would be a good fit for your work, inquire about their procedures for applying or selecting artists into their space and follow those instructions. But also note, that doing that work doesn't guarantee you get in.

-Find creative solutions for your work. I personally believe there are not enough DIY spaces in Chattanooga. Several have come and gone like flashes of lightning in short periods of time but I have experienced some of the most compelling work and projects in those spaces. Host a house art show and invite people. One of the best responses to a show I ever had for my own work was a solo show in my basement studio apartment in East Lake several years ago. If that's too much of an undertaking, find another artist or organization to partner with.

-And finally, ask yourself a question. Why am I doing art? Is it to make a living and to pay bills? Statistically, this is the most difficult path. That means you will have certain needs to meet, some of them urgently. A gallery may not be the limit of your process and there are grants, public projects, residencies, etc. to pursue also, many of them involving travel to other places. Is it as a hobby or because you enjoy it? Keep it up! That's amazing! We need so much more of that in the world, particularly these days. But also ask yourself, is a gallery the best place for your work? What other avenues might you pursue to share your joy with others? Are you just starting out and figuring things out? You aren't alone in that process and there are countless other artists before you who are making steps in that same journey. Take risks. Apply to things. Ask an artist to mentor you. If your work does not get into a show, stop and reflect and see if there are ways for you to polish your presentation. Did you follow the instructions or format? Do you have good pictures of your work? Sometimes, submissions for things are weeded out early in the process for something as simple as that, especially when there's a large volume of material to consider.

-There is not one particular way to live and work as an artist. Galleries are one way. Festivals are one way. Teaching is one way. Murals and public projects are one way. Working side jobs to fund your work is one way. Commissions are one way. Residencies and grants are other ways. And there are others still. The vast majority of artists make use of some combination of all of these and it's a lot of hard work. And while I believe that the arts are an essential part of overall human and cultural flourishing, do remember the economic practice of buying and selling of artworks exists in a "luxury market."

I am truly grateful to get to work in this community and with many of you. Have a blessed day and week ahead.”

For more creative wisdom and fun art shares, follow Tim here: https://www.facebook.com/tim.goldsmith.106
and join AVA - The Association for Visual Arts to connect and support Chattanooga’s visual arts community.

Happy 2022 and a Big THANKS to You!

Whew, we are glad to still be here after this weird pandemic ride the past two years. So, Thank You All for your support! Our local clients have been there for us consistently and we’ve met so many new residents who’ve moved to our Scenic City and are loving what our local artists do. It’s been a pleasure to meet so many new people who’ve recently transplanted and are fully immersing themselves into the diverse Chattanooga culture and community.

Our new location (since Dec. 2019), even during a global pandemic, is proving to be the right place to meet Chattanooga visitors who love picking up something local when they travel. It’s always wonderful to hear their remarks about the diverse styles and talent of our local artists (We fully agree, but it’s great to be reminded by guests from all over the country and those visiting from abroad.)

So Thank You Chattanooga and visiting art lovers for sustaining our creative culture.

Reminder: Our artists are always creating, so there is always something new. We host a monthly “First (1st) Friday” open house event, extending our hours the 1st Friday each month, with a bit of refreshment, from 6-8pm. When we change over our “featured artist show” in the back area of the gallery, the opening reception for the new body of work also coincides with our First Friday Open House and gives you a chance to meet the artist and many of our other artists too.

Cheers to 2022. With our hearts filled with appreciation and gratitude, may we all be healthy, joyful and celebrate our community with love and kindness.

Keeli, David & Rudd

Seller Beware (Scammers Target Artists Too)

Online sales from new and our family of collectors helped our gallery so much during 2020 and COVID. But as with any industry and even the good guys - nonprofits & churches - there are unethical players who make a living at scamming and taking advantage of others. Art galleries and working artists have joined the list of targets for scams. I knew a little about this trend, as one of my regular arts industry reads - Red Dot Blog posted this article “Anatomy of a Email Art Scam” April 2020 providing great detail and insight.

I’ve received various versions of this initial approach to purchase from our website as well. After a few email exchanges, my memory of the Red Dot Blog post would be triggered, and sadly I’d realize that is was not a legitimate inquiry. I am copying and pasting my latest email scammer exchanges to help spread the word to others to be aware…It’s no longer just buyers beware.

EMAIL EXCHANGES BELOW I’ve underlined sections that seem to be consistent in this type of email scam, and you’ll note throughout the inquiry unusual wording (unless English is your second+ language). But that alone doesn’t necessarily mean the inquiry isn’t genuine as we’ve shipped worldwide.
***See my final reply at the bottom and I haven’t heard anything further, yet.

On June 12, 2021 at 6:29 PM,
Squarespace <form-submission@squarespace.info> wrote:
Sent via form submission from Area 61 Gallery website

Name: Ann Kessler

Email: ann.kessler64@outlook.com

Subject: "Tomorrow's Breakfast" by Cindy Procious 16x16” Oil on linen panel, wood frame $2400

Message: Hello There,
          My name is Ann Kessler from Seattle WA. I actually observed that my husband has been viewing your website on my laptop and I guess he likes your piece of work. I'm also impressed and amazed to have seen your various works too,  You are doing a great job. I would like to purchase ''  "Tomorrow's Breakfast" by Cindy Procious 16x16” Oil on linen panel, wood frame $2400 . as a surprise to my husband on our anniversary. Also, let me know if you accept CHECK as mode of Payment.
Thanks and best regards
Ann Kessler


From: Keeli Crewe, Gallery co-owner, Area 61 Gallery
Sent: Saturday, June 12, 2021 3:49:12 PM
To: ann.kessler64@outlook.com <ann.kessler64@outlook.com>
Subject: FYI Regarding Cindy Procious Painting

Hi Ann,

When is your anniversary? (need to know timing to ensure we have time to receive a check, for it to clear, and ship it.)

I also need to know the address where the painting will be shipped, so that I can get the insured/art pack/shipping quoted.

Better Option, once I determine shipping costs, I can invoice you directly from our sales system, SQUARE, and you can pay with a credit or debit card online without ever providing your card information directly to us (it will not be saved in our system for additional security protections - plus if you use a credit card, preferably one that would give you travel or rewards points, the billing won't be seen for a month after the charge, so that can help with the surprise.)

Please provide the information above and we can move forward from there.

Keeli Crewe, Gallery Director/Co-owner
Area 61 Gallery | area61gallery.com
HOURS: 12 Noon-6pm Fri., Sat., Sun., & Mon.
Or by appointment TU-TH, call (423) 648-9367 to schedule.

721 Broad St Suite 100 | The Maclellan Building
Chattanooga, TN 37402
Area61gallery.com
SoundCrewe.com
IG & FB: @area61chattanooga


On Jun 12, 2021, at 8:05 PM,
Ann Kessler <ann.kessler64@outlook.com> wrote:

Hi Keeli, 

Thanks for your response, our anniversary is about 3 weeks away.I must tell you I intend to give my husband a surprise with the immediate purchase of the piece . Also If you'd like to know, I'm relocating to Canada soon and our wedding anniversary is fast approaching. So I'm trying to gather some good stuff to make this event a surprise one. I am buying the piece as part of gifts to him (quickly before someone else grabs it). i  will authorize a CHECK to you for the payment.

As regarding shipping, you don't have to worry about that in order not to leave any clue to my husband for the surprise.My shipping agent (who is also moving my Truck and my Properties) will contact you to arrange for the pick-up of the piece (this is to avoid my husband receiving it,if been shipped directly to my address would ruin the surprise for this event). You both have to sign a proof of pick up at the most. So as soon as you receive the CHECK and it clears in your bank, my shipping agent will get intouch..

As regarding payment, I would like to inform you, that my husband handles the family credit card/bank and PayPal transaction. So i would authorize a CHECK to you for the payment.

Regards,

PS: In the meantime, kindly get back to me with your FULL NAME as you want it to appear on the CHECK, ADDRESS (PHYSICAL ADDRESS PLS..FedEx does not deliever to P.O.BOX ) where you want the CHECK delivered by courier service including your ZIPCODE and MOBILE NUMBER, so the CHECK can be sent at the earliest.


From: Keeli Crewe
Sent: Saturday, June 12, 2021 5:29 pm
To: Ann Kessler
Subject: Re: FYI Regarding Cindy Procious Painting

Already provided - included in previous emails. This all seems highly suspect. Maybe you can find something in Canada.

Keeli Crewe, Area 61 Gallery



On Jun 12, 2021, at 8:39 PM,
Ann Kessler <ann.kessler64@outlook.com> wrote:

How won’t i request for proper information when you didn’t specify how you want the name to appear on the check? Keeli Crewe / Area61 Gallery.
Its alright if you feel uncomfortable to proceed.

Ann Kessler


From: Keeli Crewe
Date: 6/13/2021
To: Ann Kessler <ann.kessler64@outlook.com>
Subject: Re: FYI Regarding Cindy Procious Painting

I would love to support local artists with sales of their work - and especially this lovely piece of Cindy’s. However, the full name of the gallery, address, etc. and the info you keep requesting was available in all the email correspondence, and on the website from which you first initiated the desire to purchase.

Your subsequent information requests and trucking agent etc. follow a script that all of the art community has been warned about.

I’m not sure why anyone would target artists who share their creative gifts and rarely receive the true value of their contributions and hard work put into each piece. Plus, the air of distrust created by this type of “purchase request” when trying to run an honest, legitimate small business that supports creative livelihoods is heartbreaking.

I plan to post our entire email correspondence on our public blog. If I’m wrong about this, I truly hope you support local artists in your current town and the one to which you relocate.

Keeli CreweArea 61 Gallery | area61gallery.com
HOURS: 12 Noon-6pmFri., Sat., Sun., & Mon.Or by appointment

Cheer(s) to 2021!

…Here’s to 2021!

Last year was one for the record books and hopefully, lessons were learned to deter repeating.

As for Area 61 Gallery, we reopened in December 2019 in our new downtown City Center location in the heart of the tourism and convention hotels and the corporate business district. Even though art sales do not follow a typical retail sales model (aka sales increases directly related to holiday gifting), our local clients and gallery friends were as excited as we were to reopen after a two-year journey of lease negotiations and extended delays with the gallery space buildout.

We were very fortunate from December through February in the new year to preview what it could be like as we welcomed everyone back to a new gallery location stocked full of new work by our talented local gallery artists.

Then things got weird…Whose business plan could have predicted COVID-19 and a global pandemic?

We first stayed home to slow the spread. Then reopened in May when Tennessee guidelines for reopening safely by industry were created. Sourcing the required bleach cleaning products and sanitizer for public sanitizer stations became a scavenger hunt for a single small business competing with hotels, restaurants, healthcare, and other large businesses for the same resources.

We owe so much to our local clients for checking on us during the shutdown and buying local to keep us little guys around. And we cannot thank Visit Chattanooga – the Chattanooga Tourism Company (CTC) enough for their “We Love Local” goods and services auction to give back to the local culture that makes Chattanooga interesting to visit. CTC also hosted weekly community zoom video conferences with guests across various public health, business and industry channels providing valuable statewide data on the virus business impact, metrics from travel trends and predictions, sources for business tools like infrared thermometers, retail signage from the TN Department of Tourism and more. Weekly guests from our local attractions, hotels, restaurants, arts, and economic development agencies offered statistics, insights, and their best practices for all of us to survive.

Just as predicted by the Chattanooga Tourism Company, travel to visit family and in the drive-to markets returned first as people felt additional actions were being taken in the lodging industry to protect their health. Cabin fever-fueled weekend getaways increased. By July our city’s hotel occupancy was back up to 70%. Chattanooga’s attractions and outdoor amenities topped the itineraries of travelers from Atlanta, Asheville, Nashville,  Huntsville, Birmingham, and other day-travel regions through the October school year fall break.

Out-of-town guests love collecting local, which is why we moved our gallery featuring artworks by Chattanooga-based and immediate surrounding area artists to the middle of the convention and business hotels – location, location applies. Even with the pandemic direct hit to our bottom line, our personal retirement, and operating capital, we are optimistic from those who’ve come into our gallery that we are in the right location when people are comfortable getting out again. Our “Shop Small, Buy Local” mentality and support for one another in our small business community provided the additional infusion of inspiration and perseverance just when we needed it most.

Thank you Chattanooga small business supporters, art lovers, our small business owner community and neighbors for your consideration, support, shared determination and camaraderie through 2020. Happy New Year & Cheers to 2021!

How To Be Considered for Selling Art at Area 61 Gallery

At present, we are not accepting new artist’s work. Our first priority is to the 20+ gallery artists we currently represent. They were invited or referred to us by other artists and collectors and were selected based on their work style so that we can offer a diverse collection or selection of artwork to buyers, collectors, and to show out-of-town guests the range of talent from the area. We are currently not accepting new pieces due to lack of space, not lack of interest in your work. 

We do maintain a waiting list of local artists (Chattanooga-based or those living in the immediate surrounding areas). If you are local, please email our co-owner and gallery director, Keeli Crewe, at keeli.crewe@me.com. Include your full contact info — this includes where you live — your email, cell phone and images of your work or link to your online work whether website, or social media platforms. 

When we remix the artist work in our gallery, we review the images for work diversity, looking specifically for styles that do not directly compete with our current representation. We’ll then contact the artist to see if they are still interested in our gallery, discuss their available work at the time and provide the details of our gallery business model.  

With our relocation from our original gallery location in the Chattanooga downtown Southside district to the City Center Dec. 2019, our overhead was tripled. At the time, it was either move where there is opportunity to have contact with more out-of-town visitors within the main conference and convention hotel district as well as a large population of downtown employees, or close. It was only with our gallery artists commitment to a monthly gallery fee per artist that we able to move and reopen. Our business model is not an artist collective, but it is similar as there is a monthly fee and the sales commission split is less than the typical commercial gallery 50/50 (artist/gallery) split. The details will be explained when space becomes available, but if you are not interested in this business model, then our gallery isn't for you.

We do everything we can to bring awareness to Chattanooga’s local artistic talent in addition to running our gallery. But again, our first priority is to the artists we currently host and represent. We may not get back to all the requests we receive to be included in our gallery as promptly as we’d like and that has nothing to do with your art or talent. Please don’t take our slow response to your submission personally — be kind to yourself and true to your creative spirit — we want all artists to succeed and have a sustainable career in creating and selling art. We’ll acknowledge receipt of your submission and wait list status as soon as we can.

Thank you for your interest in Area 61 gallery and we look forward to seeing your work,

Keeli, David & Rudd

Diversity and Mix | Waitlist and Art Representation

When Area 61 gallery opened in 2009, it started with the founding partners, David & Rudd, who needed a place outside of their workshops to show and sell their handcrafted furniture and woodwork. We could only afford rent in the revitalizing southside district and embraced the energy to bring the community together maintaining the diversity and eclectic tone set by CreateHere, a local economic development project with a five-year mission to rejuvenate the area and fill the empty spaces. Its model later evolved to other such community projects like the Co. Lab and Glass House Collective.

Realizing the gallery had substantial wall and surface area, Keeli pitched in and reached out to other local artists they had met at AVA (Association for Visual Artists), 4 Bridges Arts Festival, and the Chattanooga Market. Artists were asked if they wanted to show and sell at Area 61. They in turn taught us some things about running a gallery, working with artists and referred other talented artists to the gallery when additional space became available (and until the space was full floor-to-ceiling). David, Rudd and Keeli — we learned the gallery model by instinct from previous retail experience, nonprofit and other marketing experiences, artist input and by the seat of our pants — from our gut and intuition. Our parents taught us respect and the golden rule, and the artists we attracted shared these character attributes. Diversity decisions were always about the mixing of mediums and art styles, not the artists themselves.

Rudd and David really only wanted to create in their workshop, not manage artists and wall space. Keeli left her corporate job and came on board full time to merchandise, remix, and communicate more among the artists. Being approached weekly by talented local artists, but no more available space to show their work, she’s continually maintained a waitlist and made the decision to represent local artists (and immediate surrounding area artists) at Area 61 to focus on our community. Artists came and went, and as space became available, Keeli based her decisions to add to the mix from a wait list of local artists who had approached her and solely on their work style - reaching out to those artists whose mediums didn’t directly compete with the styles already represented by the gallery. We hosted the work of a local area artist of color in the space until life and opportunity led him in other directions. During our 8 1/2 years on the Southside, only two artists of color approached the gallery about being represented and were wait-listed only due to lack to wall space. We always wanted the gallery to be welcoming to all and art to be accessible for all. We have clients of all cultures, color, ages, walks of life and from all over and we intentionally offer a wide range of price points so anyone can collect a piece of local and handmade.

With time, Keeli began to get outside of her small business bubble, joined other arts organizations to advocate for local artist opportunities and attended more local arts events again. We all got to know more of our local artist community outside of the gallery and more of color. When the decision to move the gallery from the Southside to the City Center was made to reach more of our out-of-town buyers, more space was available so wait-listed artists were approached to see what they had available, if they still had interest in the gallery and if they wanted to participate in the new business model. Many artists had moved on to galleries in other cities, and were engaged with city or nonprofit sponsored public spaces creative opportunities as our city embraced what artists and creatives could bring to the table in building community.

Our new gallery space build out took two years. We quit approaching artists from the waitlist to see where we’d be at reopening to ensure the 20+ artists who committed to our move for those 2 years would have first priority to show their work. At opening November/December 2019 and now post COVID-19, we are surprised how quickly the new space - double the square footage - became full. We still maintain a waitlist and encourage any local artists to submit images of their work, online portfolios or social media sites for style reference, along with their full contact information via the website contact form. When opportunities to remix the space arise, we will reach out to artists whose work complements and doesn’t compete with the current mix to see if the artist is still interested and has availability.

As for our personal views on racial injustice and equality during this dynamic time of change, we are Chattanooga natives and feel that actual movement to do better, be better in areas of humane treatment, equal access and justice for all for our city/county residents is overdue. We’ve seen waves of frustration and requests of our leaders on these same issues many times. We have attended downtown protests, marches, council meetings, reached out to local agencies, and council members to see how the next steps for action can be taken so momentum isn’t lost this wave and we do not return to the status quo. We fully support the asks of divesting and reinvesting — reallocating budget funding for equal access, YFD and other community building social and transportation services for Chattanooga and Hamilton County’s black and brown communities. We hope too that the county works diligently to meet the asks for better educational opportunities for all our residents. We continue to be enlightened about years of injustices, from the Ed Johnson trial by mob and subsequent lynching(s) to the continuing mistreatment from deep-rooted (misguided) beliefs and generations of hate. We are thankful that Chattanooga is more united than ever to no longer tolerate these actions and the numbers of us who are committed to seeking remembrance, reconciliation, unity and positive change grow daily. We are in and hopeful that Chattanooga will be better and lead based on our area’s needs and build stronger communities together.

Emerging from COVID-19

Effective Friday 5/22/20, we reopened with COVID-19 precautions and protocols in place per the TN state guidelines including limited hours & gallery capacity. Gallery guests have been slow to return. As expected, people are being cautiously optimistic about their choices of activities as they reemerge from their sanctuaries. We would not have reopened if we didn’t feel we could meet the public health recommended guidelines, and since most of our artwork doesn’t have to be touched to inspire your connection, we are actually in a better position than other retail or commercial businesses to keep a sanitized environment for you to browse and shop.

NEED TO KNOW:
1. To ensure your safety and social distancing within the space at any one time, we've added the option to "Book to Browse & Shop" on our website and a “BOOK NOW” to schedule button to our Facebook page @area61chattanooga.

2. Walk-in guests will be accommodated based on the current capacity and upcoming scheduled appointments, and there is never admission fee to visit and shop the gallery.

3. Pre-booking will help you avoid wait times when you arrive due to gallery capacity and give you front of the line access to the gallery, sanitizer station, and shopping.

4. We are adhering to all the TN reopen guidelines, including (but not limited to):

a. Staff health screening prior to each shift
b. Hand sanitizing station will be available at the entrance of the gallery and other high touch points in throughout the gallery
c. Our team will be wearing face coverings or masks to protect you
d. We ask that you respect our right/need to work and protect us as well by donning your own face covering or mask* (while supplies are available, we will have disposable masks at the entrance)
e. Social distancing will be monitored. All touch points will be sanitized regularly and fully cleaned after closing

Join us in supporting our local artists and our city's arts culture responsibly. And thank you to our loyal gallery fans and clients who continued to support us emotionally and financially while we were closed.

* A cloth face covering or mask protects others from you in case you have been exposed to the virus but are still not showing any symptoms. It can take up to 2 weeks for symptoms to present. At times in life, you cannot guarantee 6 ft. separation in passing one another, so we are wearing the mask for you, please wear one for us.

We have been monitoring the Coronavirus (COVID-19) numbers in our community and will adapt based on recommendations from our city government and local Health Department (as well as the State of TN government). We are adhering to all the retail guidelines set by the State of Tennessee via The Tennessee Pledge: Reopening Tennessee Responsibly. www.TNpledge.com

Following the TN protocols and guidelines for reopening and economic recovery, BUT responsibly for the health of our community and clients.

paused. adapting. temporarily closed to the public to "stop the spread" COVID-19.

Effective 3/17/2020, we decided to close to the public to “do our part” in helping our community to stop the spread of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus).

As a small business owner, it was a difficult decision because behind our gallery doors lies the beautiful work of 21 professional local artists and craftsmen. As caring humans, the decision was clear – we all have to act responsibly, if not for our own good, for the good of others – our professional caregivers, medical personnel, first responders, seniors and for anyone affected physically and economically.

We’ve seen so many examples of kindness within our community, as well as globally, as those who can help are working to take care of those who are in need. After the virus spread lessens and we are able to return to normal – hopefully a more enlightened normal - we sincerely hope our support for one another and collaboratively sharing our global resources continues. We are paused and adapting.

To our community, clients and those we’ve yet to meet, Be Well…positive energy, prayers, peace, love and virtual hugs to you all.

To help STOP THE SPREAD, Stay up to date:
National resources: www.cdc.gov/COVID19 or www.coronavirus.gov
Locally: Hamilton County, TN: http://health.hamiltontn.org/AllServices/Coronavirus(COVID-19).aspx
City of Chattanooga, TN: https://connect.chattanooga.gov/covid/
Chattanooga Local Press: www.chattanoogan.com and www.timesfreepress.com
Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce (converted home page to local resources): https://www.chattanoogachamber.com/ and http://www.chattanoogatrend.com/

Food Pick-up and Delivery Sites for the Greater Chattanooga Area: https://www.thriveregionalpartnership.org/covid19-family-food-needs

Social Media Community Support and Educational Resources:
Chattanooga COVID-19 Community Assistance on Facebook (another beautiful program coming from our Palace Theater): https://www.facebook.com/groups/235769837555879/learning_content/
We Over Me Chattanooga on Facebook – food support for families & more:
https://www.facebook.com/We-Over-Me-Chattanooga-103110221323384/

Click through the images below to view just some of our available artists’ work.
Call us at 423.648.9367 if you’d like to inquire about any of our local artists’ work. Updates, virtual tours, etc. will be posted here and on our social media pages (IG & FB) @area61chattanooga.

So Here We Are

Yes! We love our new space. We opened the week before Thanksgiving 2019. Our local clients, friends, art lovers and art curious showed up for us. They had patiently awaited our reopening or teased us regularly asking if we really would reopen. They checked out the new space, adopted new art pieces, congratulated us for staying strong through the process and raved about all the new works and the new environment. We love you, our followers, fans, collectors, friends and neighbors for staying in touch, rooting for us along the way and we cannot do any of this without your appreciation and support for our local artist community. Thank you.

We are almost three months in. We’ve had three fantastic First Friday Monthly Open House events. Many more to come the First (1st) Friday of every month - from 5:30pm - 8:30pm - co-hosted by our local artists, with featured new works from our gallery artists, and often a collaboration with a local culinary creator. (i.e. in February we collaborated with Kaleena from The Bitter Bottle.)

Last Monday we started QigongPlus in the Gallery on Monday evenings from 6:15pm - 7:15pm with local energy healer and Spring Forest Qigong leader, Eileen Meagher, PhD. Qigong: pronounced chee-gong - Qi = Energy, gong = Movement of the energy/lifeforce - full body/mind experience. A combination of 5 essential elements - gentle breathing, gently movement, gentle mental focus, energy music, with balancing emotions (happy, gratitude, peace, joy, etc.) This is a community class, $10 per session to Eileen. No special clothing, come in your work clothes, leave with a better mindset for the week.

And a shout out to all that got us here: Thank you to our landlords and building owners - Heritage Land & Development, Memphis TN, our onsite property managers - Amy, Will, Matt + Robby. Thank you to our contractors all managed by Matt Sears of Haskel Sears Design (Eldridge, Sowder, DownRight, Polmex, Chattanooga Floor Care), our security team - Mathew Smith - the Window Tinting Co (security film), Cody, Pete, Jeff & Chris - Security and Communications for our alarm and camera systems, Stephen of James Glass Co. for the locksmithing hookups. Jeffery Belk Graphic Designs for the lovely branding refresh, sign design & more, plus those that produced it, Professional Sign Services (Roxanne, Emory, Stephen, Chad…), VMO Graphics (David, Mike, Darla) & The Wonder Press (Cy, Matt, Tara, Eric…).

We are so grateful to be here and that you are along for the ride. Keeli, David & Rudd (+ our local artist family)