First anniversary of Shade Ceramics and Shutter Photography

We hope that you can join us for libations and refreshments on our first anniversary celebration on Friday, January 31 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at our gallery!

As the first anniversary of Shade & Shutter approaches, Mark and I have been reflecting on our first year in business here in Key West. We’ve come a long way since we first opened our doors at 1102 White Street, and we are grateful for the support of our friends, customers, and the Key West arts community.

During our first year we gave back to the community by: sponsoring the Key West Photography Festival and the Key West Yoga and Wellness Festival; sponsoring local arts organizations, including The Studios of Key West, The Key West Art and Historical Society, and The Florida Keys Council of the Arts; sponsoring local theatrical organizations, including the Red Barn Theatre, Waterfront Playhouse, Tennessee Williams Theatre, and Key West Theater; donating items to local organizations; giving to charities, including Habitat for Humanity and Equality Florida.

Mark and I created an inviting space for our gallery and working studio, and we were featured in two articles—thanks to Mandy Miles and Laura Richardson. We participated in several Walk on White events on Third Thursdays. We also created a new, modern website with an online store and implemented a marketing plan under the guidance of Linda Cunningham.

Mark introduced many new items, including a line of fun and affordable Key West Gifts, earrings, pendants, cruets, luminaires, pet dishes, and holiday ornaments. He introduced new clay bodies, new glazes, new dinnerware set designs, and new mug designs. He made many custom orders for individuals and local organizations—special thanks to Martha Hubbard, the folks at Isle Cook, and the folks at Little Pearl.

Sarah added to her photography portfolio and gave a presentation at the Key West Photography Festival. One of her photos was chosen to hang in the office of our US Representative Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, and another one was selected for the KWAHS exhibition “From a Woman’s Hand”. She participated in the The Studios of Key West Members Show, and one of her photos is on the cover of The Key West Art Guide.

Mark and I could not have accomplished all this without your support. As an expression of our gratitude, we’d like to invite everyone to our first anniversary celebration on Friday, January 31 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at our gallery. We hope that you can join us for libations and refreshments!