The five women who formed an artist cooperative and café at Dogwood Corner Boutique Gallery at 3 Dogwood Ridge on US 62W in Eureka Springs say this is not just a shop, it is a destination alive with creativity and encouragement. The mission of Dogwood Corner is to create a “legacy of community connection – alive with creative energy and respectful discussion amidst unique, saleable handmade creations and wearable art.”
Mary Haller met Elise Russell, owner of the venue, at the War Eagle Fair. Mary was asked to join the business that had already been operating several months, and also act as a consultant. Having been an executive and consultant, Mary used her business experience to ask questions, listen to Elise, and pull the vision, values, and operational/financial plan together.
Elise said when she finally made the move to Eureka Springs in 2019, she thought she would retire.
“But that idea was short lived once the concept was born for Dogwood Corner. As the building is quite large at 5,000 square feet, I visualized a co-operative of sorts,” Elise said. “I wanted to offer good food, lots of local art, fun and funky clothing and just a creative, eclectic mix of stuff.
“This concept would not have happened without the help and vision of the four wonderfully talented women who have chosen to become involved in the business here at the Corner,” Elise said. “I feel fortunate and honored to have each one of these women pursuing their individual dream through a business they each create. Because of their varied talents and friendship, the Corner has become a unique destination, offering local art, great food, lovely antiques, fun apparel, and an art classroom.”
Janie Roll Davis retired from nursing four years ago knowing she wanted to explore a road less traveled. She now owns Elizabeth’s Antiques.
“I’ve collected antiques since I was a teen and love it to this day,” Janie said. “I love, love, love coming to work each day to work with these wonderful dear women. I’ve learned so much from them and feel so very blessed. I spring out of bed because I can’t wait to get to work!”
Sherry France taught art for 37 years in Virginia and Texas. She and her husband decided to retire in the Ozarks, where she is currently teaching adult art classes and will teach kid’s classes this summer.
“I met Janie Davis shortly after moving to Eureka in early 2019,” Sherry said. “We have been great friends since. When she opened her antique shop, it gave me the chance to open a teaching studio. It is my passion. I love seeing people being so proud of what they have created in class.”
Art classes for May include painting with alcohol inks, crayon batik and torn paper landscapes.
She said she also loves working with the other women who have businesses in the same space.
“We are a team and support each other in our endeavors,” Sherry said. “Dogwood Corner is truly a special place.”
Peggy Perry-Hill, owner of Three Sisters Café said the women are all on new adventures.
“Each woman has her own unique story, but we all like and support each other,” Peggy said. “Change was one of my chosen words for 2022. That word, along with miracles, health and love, define my move into Three Sisters Café. I just needed something different, something challenging. I am a lover of great art, yummy food and making friends.”
For the past 26 years, Peggy has traveled with her husband, Native American flutist John Two-Hawks.
“Our mantra was making music and making friends,” Peggy said. “I am currently changing that to making meals and making friends. I have new sisters at Dogwood Corner, and I am very thankful for that!”
Menu items include croissant sandwiches and paninis, rumba salad, chips and three salsas, corn casserole, three bean salad, zucchini bread, drinks and desserts.
Works of local artists are on display.
Three Sisters Café is open 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Thursday through Monday, and Dogwood stores are open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday.