Menagerie of Art: A Unique Experience

When you walk into the cozy, century-old, repurposed house in Canton’s entertainment district, it’s rather like walking into your grandmother’s kitchen. The airy, sunny rooms and positive energy envelop you the second you step through the front door. Foreman has created a space that is warm, inviting, and eclectic. Each room has a unique mood, well-supplemented by natural light and Foreman’s impeccable taste.

Menagerie on Main is not your typical art gallery, though. Foreman wants the space to be more than a gallery or cooperative. She hopes to create an art center that encourages cultural exchange with its visitors. There are no eager gallerinas here, trying to make a sale; instead, visitors are encouraged to browse as they like, to ask questions, and to learn about the artists. Education is an important focus of this space. Foreman offers weekly classes, taught by local artists.

Foreman hopes to challenge people with the idea of what art can be. “I want it to be more than a store. I want it to be community-oriented. Something that takes hold, influences. I don’t see this as an isolated shop. I feel like there is a bigger picture,” she explains.

The venue is not just a retail store, although you can purchase beautiful art, jewelry, and crafts here. Menagerie on Main is a place you want to linger. Foreman’s encyclopedic knowledge of the pieces and of the artists is formidable, but she is never intrusive. She lets patrons take their time and find a piece that speaks to them. She acts as guide, narrator, and translator of artistic vision.

Art is in her blood. As the daughter of an artist, Jamie grew up surrounded by art and artists, and even makes her own gorgeous jewelry. This venture is a chance for her to not only indulge her own creative muse, but to encourage it in others. “I recognized how important doing something creative was in my life, and this space is the result.”

Foreman celebrates local artists and artisans. All of the artists featured at Menagerie on Main live and work less than an hour away. When browsing the space, you can see works by Philip Gard, Clint Brownlee, Jennifer Griffin, Olivia McKinley, Jude Lindquist, and Anna Ladefoged, among many others. While Foreman calls Menagerie on Main a work in progress, it already feels complete. Menagerie on Main is like a fair for adults, with something new around every corner. Every table and every wall beckon you to stop and take a closer look. Jamie Foreman is the heart and soul of this comprehensive exhibition, and she celebrates and uplifts both the artists and the lucky visitors that take the time to open her door.

This article was featured in the Historic Canton magazine. Read more.