The artistic journey of Carol Ritten Smith is almost over. After 40 years of operating Studio Arts in Innisfail, she is calling it quits. "It's just time to do something different," said Smith who has published two books to date.
The artistic journey of Carol Ritten Smith is almost over.
After 40 years of operating Studio Arts in Innisfail, she is calling it quits.
"It's just time to do something different," said Smith who has published two books to date. "I also want to work on more writing and pottery. Presently, I am president of Writers Ink and get to mentor young writers from Central Alberta. I also want to get my third book published."
Smith started working at Studio Arts when her mother, Edna Cossey Ritten ran the store as a framing shop in 1974 when it was located off Main Street. The store moved to where it is now 38 and a half years ago, and it has been home to constant change.
"Over the years, we have expanded, changed product lines and services, but one thing has remained consistent, our framing business," said Ritten. "At one time or another, we have had a photo lab, designed, sewn, and sold square dance clothing and materials, operated our art gallery, sold scrapbooking supplies, and framed thousands of items from Indian artifacts to baseballs. It has been quite a ride."
The soon-to-be retired storeowner fondly remembered her square dancing years.
"I have square danced for many years, and actually met my husband there. It is part of Canadian history," said Smith. "My mother designed the clothing, I sewed it, and we all went to jamborees and had an incredible amount of fun over the years."
While her enthusiasm for framing has not diminished, her equipment has seen some better days.
"Whomever buys the store will get equipment that is 20-plus years old," said Smith. "We know how to use it to get the results we do, and there will be a learning curve involved. I have always enjoyed framing and it is always interesting waiting on customers to find out what they want with their treasures. I will miss it."
The store also features an art gallery where the square dancing and photo studio used to be.
"Downstairs, we have my mom's art on display as well as Judith Sherwood and some of my dolls and painting," said Smith. "The store contains over 40 years of creative memories."
Smith added her mom started painting when she was 14 years old and even went to the Banff School of Fine Arts where A.Y. Jackson of the Group of Seven taught for a while.
Smith noted her mother's art style could not be pigeonholed and ranged from watercolour to pastel landscapes.
"It has always been a fun job and watching Carol frame has been amazing," added Joan Miller, Smith's sole employee. "I'm not sure what I am going to do after 15 years in the same job."
Smith added she has bittersweet feelings about her pending store closure.
"I will miss the store and my customers," said Smith. "Many have been coming here for three decades already, and I hope someone sees their next 40 years in the same store just as I have had."
