I had lunch with a friend at Olala Cafe (because who can resist a crossianwich?), and we started talking about 100 Taylor Arts, the quirky collective in Germantown. I eyed it with interest when the building was closed last year for some Codes repairs. It’s now reopened, and with easy access, lots of light, and clear signage, it feels like a place you want to explore.
And you should! It’s chockful of beautiful, interesting, and weird galleries, boutiques, and tattoo parlors. Every shop has its own hours, so they may not all be open when you’re there, but some have art out front and a Venmo honor system when they’re closed. That’s the case with Craig’s Over Easy, which features sculptures of eggs that look like they’re frying on the sidewalk — exactly how I felt during the “heat dome.” (R.I.P. heat dome, don’t hurry back.)
Crystal Shade runs this gallery and is the director of the 100 Taylor space, so obviously, this is the place to pop in for any and all intel. In addition to selling works like custom pet bud vases (I need one of my dog Raja, right?), Shade teaches classes and workshops where you can get your hands dirty. Coming soon: Build your own spooky mug.
Speaking of Raja, she thinks lots of stuff in this store made just for her is adorable, like the stuffed French fry toy and the bagel and pickle. They also carry cat treats and toys, plus some pet-agnostic snacks.
There were so many little bookends, vases, and tiny pieces of art in this micro store, I had to put on my reading glasses to make sure I wasn't missing anything.
Donated musician instrument strings are turned into jewelry — and hope — through this innovative program. Strings of Hope teaches survivors of abuse and exploitation to make jewelry from the strings, either as a path to long-term employment or as an interim step to a new career.
