Heather Farmer became involved in the local art scene through her work at the university and by creating her own art, something she has been doing since she can remember. However, when the pandemic left her at home in a remote job and taking care of her two young children, she needed a new outlet. Surprisingly, business planning was what kept her looking forward and holding on to hope during what she characterized as a challenging time.

Soon after the start of the pandemic, Pygmalion’s, a local art supply store, shut its doors after serving the community for decades. That’s when farmer realized the dream art supply store she’d been building in the pages of a google doc wasn’t just something she wanted, but something the community was now without.

Farmer opened Bloomington Fine Art Supply this month. She said the biggest challenge she faced from the early days of planning her business on a google doc to opening day was her struggle with imposter syndrome.

“I’ve been able to address that imposter syndrome piece and say, ‘No, I think I can do this.’ I’ve only been able to carry that as far as my friends and family have been able to rise to the occasion to create space for me to be able to explore this.”

With the creation of her art supply store, Farmer had a very specific vision in mind. She wanted all artists of all skill levels and backgrounds to be able to find community and a place in her shop. This vision is evident in the large industrial sink, community drying racks, and  ‘creative commons.’

Heather’s business model and vision for her shop seems different from Pygmalion’s approach to outfitting the art community with supplies.

Zack Worcel, a bloomington local, enjoys doing art in his free time. He recalled a time when he took art classes at IU and bought his supplies from Pygmalion’s. Pygmalion’s seemed emphasize catering to student artists and their supply needs. Whereas, Farmer’s shop is focused on building community and strengthening the accessibility of art.

On opening day, locals showed up to explore the new shop and what it had to offer. Patrons said they were excited to see what this new shop would mean for local artists.