Lee Lewis, owner of the new Heartstrings Gallery and Gifts, has art in her blood.
When asked why she is always working on her next art project, she answered, "I wouldn't survive without art. It is like life to me."
Heartstrings recently opened in the Copeland Cultural Arts Center in Minden, replacing another gallery. Lee handcrafts each item she sells whether it is silk scarves and ties, jewelry, wall hangings, mosaic crosses, stepping stones or boxes, or original watercolors and prints.
Theresa Chipp, executive director of the Carson Valley Arts Council, said Lee has a sparkle and a determination to succeed.
"It was hard to see Artistic Viewpoints leave, but Lee was exactly the type of person that we were looking for to take their place," said Chipp.
Lee joined CVAC's Arts Incubator, fulfilling her lifelong dream by opening Heartstrings Gallery and Gifts.
The Carson Valley Arts Council started the Arts Incubator 15 months ago. It operates in a similar manner to a business incubator in offering artists or arts organizations support so that they can thrive.
The current incubator affiliates include the Carson Valley Community Theatre and the Dakota Organization, Lloyd Higuera with the DCCA-TV, and now Lewis. Richard Ferrar, a professional photographer, and Kim Johnson, a professional potter, also show in Lee's gallery.
The Copeland Cultural Arts Center is located at 1572 Highway 395. For more information, call 782-8207.
