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KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Curator Taryn Fisher has transformed her cozy home into something magical—a gallery space that brings local art to life in an inviting, personal way.
The Court Street Cottage: Taryn Fisher Fine Art, located at 302 Court Street, has blossomed from a modest idea into a vibrant space where artists can showcase their work in a setting that feels more like a friend’s home than a formal gallery.
Fisher’s journey to this moment is deeply rooted in her passion for art and activism. She launched Taryn Fisher Fine Art in 2022 with a clear mission: to amplify the voices of artists dedicated to social justice, environmental stewardship, and community activism. Her role, as she sees it, is to serve as a bridge between creators and those who appreciate the powerful impact art can have.
“I’m that bridge or liaison between people making art and those who love and appreciate it,” Fisher said. For her, art is more than a form of expression—it’s a tool for change, and she’s dedicated to creating platforms where artists can connect with audiences who value their work.
Fisher’s extensive experience in the art world has shaped this vision. Since moving to Keene in 2016, she has opened several downtwon galleries, including the League of NH Craftsmen Gallery, The New Leaf Gallery, and Studio 1868. When the pandemic struck, Fisher had to adapt quickly, closing physical spaces but keeping the art alive through online events and collaborations with local businesses. Her ability to innovate during this challenging time only deepened her commitment to providing meaningful art experiences, even as the world changed around her.
This adaptability is reflected in her latest venture. Court Street Cottage is the culmination of Fisher’s dream to create a gallery that blends professionalism with warmth, offering a space where visitors can engage with art on a deeper, more personal level. “I wanted a space that felt like you were visiting a friend’s home,” she says, describing the relaxed, intimate atmosphere that sets her gallery apart from more traditional spaces.
Her first exhibition in her home gallery this summer featured the work of her longtime friend, Keene artist Jim Murphy. The small space required some creative problem-solving, and Fisher installed a custom curtain rod system to maximize the display area. The result was a successful opening event that drew 50 attendees, many of them fans of Murphy’s work.
The second exhibition, featuring artist Scott J. Morgan, came with its own set of challenges. Fisher had hoped to align the event with a local art and music festival, but fatigue from the festival meant a smaller turnout. Nevertheless, 30 people attended, and Fisher considered it a success. “It was more laid-back, like a small gathering of friends,” she says, emphasizing how the homey atmosphere encouraged guests to explore the art at their own pace and envision it in their own homes.
Looking ahead, Fisher has big plans for Court Street Cottage. Her next exhibition will be a group show featuring local artists James Duffy, Marcie Maynard, Linda Felder, and Carmela Azzaro. This show holds special meaning for Fisher, as Marcie Maynard was a mentor to her when she was just starting out in the art world, and this will be her first time meeting Azzaro in person after following her work for years.
In addition to in-person exhibitions, Fisher is expanding her gallery’s online presence. Her website, TarynFisherFineArt.com, showcases the work of her represented artists, allowing those who can’t visit the gallery in person to still experience the art. She also plans to add signage to Court Street Cottage to increase its visibility, including a wrought iron address sign and a banner.
As Fisher prepares for the upcoming group show and future exhibitions and continues growing the gallery into a welcoming and accessible space for all kinds of art enthusiasts, she remains focused on her overarching goal: “I want to keep bringing people together through art,” she said. “When art (lovers) find each other, there’s immediate energy and conversation.”
Fisher is hosting an opening reception during the upcoming Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 5 to 7 p.m. The show will the work of artists James Duffy, Marcie Maynard, Carmela Azzaro, and Linda Felder. Gallery hours are by appointment only. Visit tarynfisherfineart.com for more information.