A Haven For Artists, Right Here in Port Washington

Haven Art, a beautiful, eccentric art shop located parallel to the Port Washington Long Island Rail Road Station on Haven Avenue opened in late 2001. It emanates an infinite amount of energy and creativity from the pores of its wall-to-wall display of art. Whether you are interested in glass blowing, sculpture, painting, drawing, pottery, needlework, or beading, Haven Art is just the "haven" you've been looking for.

Tom Kello and his wife, Jackie, are the owners and "architects" of Haven Art. With an undeniable fervor for creativity, they have designed the art store and studio to be a sanctuary for artists, whether they are naturals or just getting started. "At Haven Art, the mantra is, 'The process of creating art is just as valuable as the finished product,'" Mr. Kello said. "In other words, everyone here is an artist."

Haven Art is home to both experienced and novice artists who are looking for a creative niche. The seemingly small structure holds a full art studio, a section for children and adult parties, and is chock-full of classes taught by exceptional artists. The front of the shop features local handmade crafts for sale, as well as gallery exhibits and art displayed by local contributors. There is also a pottery studio and glass blowing room located in the back, which is fully loaded with local art work, paintings, and glass pieces, along with supplies and unfinished work.

Patricia Bridges, an art educator at Haven and self-proclaimed pottery enthusiast, said she finds the creative process to be both relaxing and rewarding. In addition to teaching various classes, Patricia's work can be found on display in the store. The functional, as well as decorative, pottery that she has composed is incredibly intricate. "Pottery is like yoga," Bridges said. "It is a great outlet, it's centering, and it's incredibly relaxing."

Bridges and Tom Kello both agree that Haven Art is a wonderful place for free form expression. "Real artists work here," Kello said. "It is a very organic environment for creativity."

The educators at the Haven Art studio are talented artists, as well as teachers. They integrate their passion for their trade into their artwork and teaching techniques. Peggy Simons, a potter for more than 30 years, has dedicated her life to the art form. "Students make a lot of clay sculptures, and once they are finished designing, we fire it in the kiln, glaze it, and let it sit," Simons said. "Once the artist sees the finished product, it's a total 'wow' experience, and it brings a huge amount of joy to both us and the artists."

Whether you are an artist, or simply a fan looking for some authentic pieces of art to add to your collection, taking a peek at this "hidden gem," as patron and Port Washington resident Ryan Lensman called it, is completely worth your while, according to many local residents.

"It's great for local artists," Lensman said. "I haven't seen many places in the area where people can explore their talents artistically, like they can at Haven Art."