As the industrial scene in Gorham grows, many different types of businesses are finding their place in our town, from new bars to construction companies. For the art lover, there are several little gems right in the center of town that should not be overlooked. One of which, No Repeats Gallery, held its ribbon cutting ceremony on December 1, with a Grand Opening to follow in January.
The name of the Gallery is a description of owner Jo Eaton’s artwork — nothing she creates is ever exactly the same. Located at 2 School Street, up the stairs and next door to the Dance Studio of Maine, No Repeats Gallery is home to a variety of art and fashion for viewing and wearing. From custom crochet hats and nature landscape photography, to jewelry and art made by artists from across the state, each piece is original and delightful. Her motto is: “In Life and Hats, Scarves, Pins and More — There Are No Repeats!!!!”
Whimsey and love, informed by a serious artistic eye, is evident in every piece created by Eaton. She spins some of the wool yarn herself and each piece tells a story. There is something special for everyone to buy and wear.
Photo Credit: Chris CrawfordFiber artist, Jo Eaton, creates one of a kind hats at No Repeats Gallery.
Her landscape hats are works of art, inspired by the colors and feelings evoked by photographs and paintings she has made at real locations throughout Maine. Eaton has also won awards and has showcased her art around the country. In addition to being an artist, Eaton is also a registered Maine Guide who loves the outdoors.
Eaton sold her first hat in 1972. She has been making her signature sunflower hats for many years, and her hats have been sold in selective boutiques in Maine. “The biggest thing is getting people to smile,” Eaton says about her artwork. “I’m working on coloring winter.”
Her gallery space is warm and cheerful with bright balls of yarn, bowls of buttons and other knick-knacks used to create her art. The gallery feels homey, like visiting a family member or a friend’s house. The appealing gallery space and her generous smile provide a warm welcome to the art displayed on the brick walls of her studio/gallery.
Like other artists in town, Eaton makes a statement that she is here to stay because her workshop and gallery are in the same space. She enjoys waving at Erin Flett who is at work across the street in her own upstairs studio. When you visit, you can find Eaton working on new hats and other winter outerwear in the gallery as you browse.
The gallery plans to host weekly gatherings to bring the town together and spread love through art. Thursdays from 4:30-6 p.m. there will be open studio art making events. Each month will be a different craft. This January will be creating folk art style felt hearts. One is free, kits of three for $9. Eaton also encourages people to stop in during open hours for crochet or knitting activities.
The Gallery is open on Thursdays from 1 to 6 p.m. or when the open sign is up, or by appointment at 838-0421. Email at norepeatsfiberworks@gmail.com or visit the website at www.norepeatsfiberworks.com.