Coastal Collective Arts, co-owned by Marie Hornberger and Danette Gotta, is a new boutique and gift store in Ventnor.
The shop offers a curated mix of original artwork and unique items from artists and creators from within the community.
How did longtime friends from Lower Chelsea, both recently retired, end up working together on this new business venture?
Danette: I was both a customer and an artist who sold items at Makt Arts. When we heard that Brenda Dowd was retiring, Marie and I both had the same feeling that we can’t let this space go dark. It’s very important to the community.
Ventnor Mayor Tim Kriebel and Commissioner Maria Mento welcomed the new owners to the Ventnor Business District at the grand opening on Friday, May 2.
Mayor Kriebel: There must be something in the water in Ventnor because there are so many talented artists in the community.
Any difference, if at all, between Coastal Collective Arts and Makt Arts?
Marie: We are expanding the gift store area by using space that was previously used as an art studio.
What’s the reaction after you announced the opening and concept of the store?
Danette: Lots of gratitude from the creators who are thankful that there is still a place to display their work.
Marie: I was familiar with the store, shopping for gifts and looking for ideas. This place is unique. There is no other store in the area that has a consignment like this. I wish we were three times the size. We want to build upon what was already established.
Marie: There has been an overwhelming number of best wishes from the public. It inspires us and confirms our belief that this was the right thing to do.
Danette: There will continue to be one-of-a-kind, not mass-produced items that you can’t find anywhere else. We’re here to support the community.
A young boy outside the store said, “I’m an artist.” I replied, “bring in your artwork!”
Marie: We want to showcase rising stars and spotlight new talent. We have new items from artists who were not featured here before. We are honored that the artists, artisans and creators have trusted us with their heart and soul.
Sean Gleason is a photographer who captures stunning images of the Downbeach area.
Gleason: Coastal Collective Arts is filling the void left behind by Makt Arts. They’ll bring the same enthusiasm while providing local pros the ability to display and sell their diverse art and photography.
Coastal Collective Arts
5112 Ventnor Ave., Ventnor, NJ
609-241-9181
Spring Hours:
Mon–Wed: 10a–5p
Thurs–Sat: 10a–6p
Sun: 10a-4p
Summer Hours:
Mon-Sun, 10a-6p
coastalcollectivearts @ gmail .com
Facebook.com/CoastalCollectiveArts
Instagram.com/CoastalCollectiveArts
