It’s right smack in the middle of the Beekman Street Arts District. But as with many of the tiny shops on Beekman, don’t look down, cause you might just miss it. It’s clean and modern signage is inviting. But only those who accept the invitation get to truly enjoy the tranquil and intimate shopping experience. Collective 131 is on a mission to spotlight local female artisans. And makes it well worth venturing off Broadway for the afternoon.
You may even remember The SCOOP Love of Local Gift Guide feature, filmed just weeks after they opened in 2020! After studying Art History at University of Connecticut, Cassie Fiorenza worked for several years in art museums in New York City. Feeling a calling to help support emerging female artists, she left her job at the gallery to focus on selling through her online shop and at art fairs. When moving back to the area at the start of the pandemic, she did a crazy thing. She answered a Craig’s List ad and opened up her first ever brick and mortar, featuring female artists and small batch unique goods.
Cassie was drawn to both the quiet vibe of Beekman street and the unique architecture. She also loves the history behind its multi-ethnic roots, with Italian and Irish immigrants living here since the early 1900s. Cassie feels that the heritage, culture and food are what makes the neighborhood so unique. And proudly shared the fact that she’s a “social member” of the Principessa Elena Society, just around the corner from Collective 131.
Cassie believes that art doesn’t need to be “stuffy”. Her online and physical shop is proof that integrating the talents of local artists and artisans into today’s lives can be fun. And her super interesting artwork, home goods and accessories make it incredibly easy.
I know, I know. Some Saratogians act as if the West Side is the other end of the earth. But I can ASSURE you that heading over to Collective 131 for that special gift or unique piece of art for your home will be well worth the adventure.
And, how awesome is this? Scoop readers will get 15% off through March 2022 by mentioning or entering THESCOOP at checkout. As if Cassie (and Collective 131) couldn’t be any cooler.