Vigeland Farewell Letter

ART DEPARTMENT HAS SOLD!

Jim and I are thrilled to announce that Art Department has sold! The new owner of Art Department is (drumroll please…)      Jessica Ramey! 

We are beyond excited and can't think of a better person to pass the torch to. Jessica, an accomplished artist, friend and community organizer, has the vision, skills and energy it takes to move the store to the next level.  Plus, she is a really nice, honest and good person. Wait until you hear what she has planned! Happily she plans to keep the current programs going and our wonderful staff in place. We hope you will continue to support Salem’s local art store and community! We all need a place where we can see, touch, and try out art materials as well as gather, learn and connect with each other.

Jim and I bought Art Department 26 years ago when our son Erik was 2 and daughter Haley was 5 (now 28 and 31!). So we have had the store a long time and our kids literally grew up with this business. But I have to say, it has been the most fun and rewarding business to run and we sure are going to miss it! We have truly enjoyed coming to work each day, and for that, we have you, our customers to thank! We loved helping you find the right materials for your creative endeavors, but the best part has been the relationships we have built with you. Thank you for your support throughout the years. A lot of people have worked for us and taught for us these past 2 ½ decades. Many have become like family and all have played an integral part in the store’s success. It’s especially true with our current staff, Makayla and Sarah who care about the business as if it were their own. We will miss you all! We’ve been so lucky to work with such great people who share the love of art. 

But don’t worry, Jim and I aren’t going anywhere! Salem is our home and we still look forward to running into you around town and of course, at Art Department! Our time officially ends September 30th, 2020.

So, what’s next for Jim and Katy?

Katy is looking forward to making more art and perhaps teaching some classes. Jim is excited to play more tennis and make some much needed home repairs. Together, we are excited to spend more time with family and friends. We look forward to learning new things, reading, hiking, traveling, and just enjoying life. 

Thank you to Salem and our amazing and loyal customers for all your support throughout the years! Let’s help keep our community vibrant by continuing to shop locally!

Katy and Jim Vigeland