Marlene's dream is becoming a reality as she opens her small
art studio and gallery in Katie-Lew, overlooking Crow Cove.
This building has a long history as some of you know who
either live in Rose Blanche, or are readers of our earlier stories here in
Newfoundland. The house on Parsons Point was originally a larger family home
before being reconstructed to a smaller one, then we renovated it into our little
blue cottage, and now Marlene has set up part of it as an arts studio and gallery.
She will be showing her Fused Glass and more, as she calls
it. She also does paintings and is otherwise creative, so she's only limited by
her imagination and the tininess of the gallery.
Katie-Lew's transformation isn't happening in isolation.
Rose Blanche is transforming as well, into somewhat of a tourist destination.
Of course there's the picturesque harbour, the famous granite Lighthouse with
the Gift Shop and Grub Box, a couple of bed and breakfasts, other rental accommodation
and now there's a new lounge being added at the General Store. To top it all off,
the Town is in the process of hiring an Economic Development Officer.
Just this week, we heard that 4 cruise ships are scheduled
to stop here next summer for their passengers to enjoy the sights and feel of
this outport community.
We think that the timing of the Katie-Lew Art Studio and Gallery is not
only right for Marlene's retirement years, but tourism is thriving in
Newfoundland, and it's also right for Rose Blanche.