Small space offers big variety

• A sampling of jewelry available at Stone Soup.

A sampling of jewelry available at Stone Soup. Photo by Margaret Ontl
• Jane Nicol, owner of Stone Soup Gallery

Jane Nicol is a back home again. She has opened her Stone Soup Gallery in the old post office on Locust Street in Hudson. In addition to the works by 20 artists, including herself, she also offers locally handcrafted soaps, lotions and candles. Photo by Margaret A. Ontl

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At its opening on Nov. 4, customers were driving over to see Jane Nicol’s newest home for her art gallery Stone Soup. Nicol, a Hudson resident, has work from over 20 artists tastefully displayed in what used to be the postmaster’s office in Hudson and half of the foyer.

She is one of three businesses that will eventually be located at 225 Locust St. Opening last month was Piece by Piece, Home Furnishings Resale and Consignment, owned by Julie and Joel Marvin.

Nicol, who has lived in Hudson since 1993, graduated from UW-River Falls in 1997 with and BFA degree, majoring in metal with a minor in glass work.

“I have wanted to have a gallery in Hudson since I graduated,” said Nicol.

A wide variety of media are represented by area artists including pottery, wood turning, jewelry, glass, paint, pastels, photography, water color and fiber art.

“All of the artists will also create custom pieces as well,” said Nicol, whose jeweler’s bench is located in the shop so customers may see her creating her Nicol Original Designs. She works in all metals combining them at times with semi-precious stones.

“I like working with metal because I push it to the extremes,” said Nicol. “All of my work is about texture. There isn’t anything I won’t try.”

The gallery named for the childhood fable, Stone Soup, was originally located in Hammond. It was open there for two and a half years, closing in September. With the downturn in the economy and a chance to open up in Hudson, Nicol jumped at the opportunity to downsize and relocate.

“This way I can work more on my original designs,” said Nicol.

Gallery hours at the present time are Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hours may expand during the holiday season. A grand opening event is planned for Dec. 4, 5 and 6. For more information call (715) 781-4609 or go to www.stonesoupart.com or www.shoppiecebypiece.com

Tags: new business, stone soup, art gallery, business