Written by Mikayla Buneta

Photos of Bailey Culver, Hal Lueking, and Kenzie Williams by Mindy Welland

Slow and steady wins the race, and that is exactly what Snail Art House advocates for in their work. Local to downtown Springfield, this up-and-coming studio crafted its eclectic style with attention toward slow fashion. Through compromise, connections, and growth, this group of artists established a new creative direction for Springfield artistry. Alongside quotes from creator Chloe Thorne, we gather a relative history over the year that has been the development of Snail Art House. 

The original idea sprouted from artists Chloe, Levi, Kelsey, and Abby; four friends in search of a space that could provide a place to create. After months of preparation and funding, Snail Art House was green lit on Valentine’s Day of 2021. Not only is the space an idea for creation, but it can also easily be identified for its artistry– vibrant designs and patterns across the walls and floors, doodles galore. 

“We want to keep it silly and relatable as artists because we are all about creating a welcoming artist community.”

The original creators each have an opportunity to showcase their work, whether that be physical paintings, prints, three-dimensional sculptures, or thrifts. 

“Reducing waste and inspiring new creation can go hand in hand. We want to inspire others to recycle things they have or by giving them to us to up-cycle.” 

With the current trends revolving around SHEIN and other fast fashion companies, an established physical shop can help turn heads toward getting unique pieces in an ethical way. This idea can be beneficial to those who may not have time to go through thrift stores to find their style, clothes are already hand-picked by a creative eye. 

“Ultimately our goal is to amplify our local artists, giving them a space to sell in small drops, as well as make connections”.

Alongside work from the original four, Snail Art House curators also offer a creative space for others around the area. This opportunity has provided a retail position for creators that usually work in a commission or online space. The Snails have housed a place for popular local artists like Means Beads and Funny Face Vintage. 

With a location so close to college students as well as the general artist locality, The Snail is also working towards collaboration within our community. They will also be open every Friday through Saturday in the coming months. While still pertaining to the message of slow art, this provides opportunity and excitement towards exposing new creators every week. 

“We are planning on doing more collaborative events with our downtown community and art classes in 2023, along with opening our space with a photo studio for rent per hour.”

The creators have put in so much work and time to create this space for the artists of Springfield. The future of the house is open to endless creativity and passion. As an artist or an indulger of the works, anyone can find a place through these colorful creators’ development of Snail Art House. 

“Something colorful, inclusive, a little messy, and doesn’t feel elitist. We created the space we all had been searching for.”