With each thin strip of paper added, the image became fuller and more vivid.
Rosa J. went to work on a new creation on Saturday at the opening event for Menasha Market — One Forty Main.
And her efforts while engaging in conversations with visitors served as a microcosm for the space as a whole.
The unfinished space delighted on its first day and in part from some imagination of what it’ll soon become.
Menasha Market — One Forty Main is open business in the former Menasha City Hall. Visitors on Saturday enjoyed coffee, wine and craft beer while taking in the work of local artists and checking a few names off their holiday gift lists.
Traffic was brisk among the curious — both artists and art lovers.
Its first-floor pop-up market will feature a rotating cast of artists. Pieces available on opening day ranged from holiday crafts to jewelry and purses. There were handcrafted writing utensils, handmade greeting cards and paintings.
Interest among prospective vendors was incredible, curator Jean Detjen said.
“We had a stack of forms and they’re all gone,” she said. “They wanted to see it before they signed.”
It indeed took some imagination.
The duct work was exposed above. Unfinished cement floors were below.
But there was an excitement in between.
Following Rosa’s art demonstration, Nicholas Raymond provided live music.
One Forty Main will include a grocery and food court. It’ll become home to creative businesses.
The official grand opening will take place on Jan. 4.
Holiday hours during its ongoing build-out will open opportunities for artists to earn. It’ll provide the community a chance to watch the project unfold and take a sense of ownership in the creative space.
Winter market dates will run from Nov. 23 to Jan. 31. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
