FORT THOMAS, Ky. — The Fort Thomas Renaissance Board hosted a ribbon cutting for its newest addition of local business, an art class and supply shop called The Little Art House at the Highland Plaza.
Twenty-one year old Ella Surrey has been an artist for most of her life. She says what started out as a passion in high school has become her dream job and it’s all because of a high school teacher.
“Andrew Eckerle, he was one of the ones or one of the teachers that really inspired me to keep pursuing art and just taught me all of the reasons to value it," Surrey said. "And I think that it really enhances just the beauty of life when you have a creative outlet.”
Despite all of her recent success, Surrey said the past few months have been a lot to take in.
“It feels a little overwhelming at times, but I'm really excited to share this with everybody. I think that it can have a positive impact on every single person," said Surrey.
Surrey said that when planning her business, her hope was that it to be a safe and fun space.
She shared her hopes and why art is an important creative outlet.
“My hopes for the business is that it is able to make a difference in people's lives, even if that's just getting together with like-minded people and share fun time, maybe learn a new skill," she said.
Residents and leaders from the City of Fort Thomas came out to congratulate Surrey on the opening of her new space. Chanda Calentine, the development director, shared why businesses like Surrey’s are essential to the Northern Kentucky community.
“Not only do they support the community, but they provide a place for the community to participate, especially in this case with Ella and the little art house bringing in children and bringing in adults," Calentine said. "This is a very multi-generational town in the city of Fort Thomas. And being able to create a community where people can work together and be in the same space and with the arts, it just really creates a very vibrance and a place that benefits everyone.”
Surrey reiterated that art is for everyone.
“Whether you're new to any kind of creative activity or you're a seasoned artist, we have our doors are open to you, and this will be a fun place to hang out," she said. "Maybe pick up a new hobby, practice an old one, and just learn more about the little art house.”
Surrey said in the next coming weeks she will host her first art class for adults and welcome all to the space.
According to the Kentucky Arts Action Fund, In 2021, the Kentucky arts and culture sector was a $6.1 billion industry. To find more information about Surrey’s shop, you can visit her website.