Some reasons we left Maine:

Bar Harbor is a seasonal tourist town where there is enormous potential for art related business and but hardly any support from the town itself.  Our business is based on integrity and quality, offering handmade artwork and fine American craft from over 150 artists in the United States and Canada.  Most of the tourists being recruited by the town were not interested in what we had to offer, instead they bought t-shirts, plastic lobsters and ice cream.  During the first few years, our business grew and things seemed hopeful, but we watched as the town slowly went downhill.  We realized that we needed to be in an area that values art and artists and understands how art can revitalize and bring economic growth to a city.

 

After six years in Bar Harbor we decided to relocate the gallery:

The search began for a new home.  Originally from the Cincinnati area, I had been in Maine for ten years.  Jill, my business partner and mother, lives in greater Cincy and had to commute back and forth from Maine to Ohio frequently.  It made sense to move closer to Jill.  Once we decided to make the move to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, we started thinking about a few areas of the city that seemed “artsy” and hip.  Covington stood out because of its new designated arts district, its proximity to Cincinnati and the idea of its new identity as an “arts destination.”  Still in Maine and on the internet, I started looking at mixed-use properties for sale in Covington.  As soon as I saw it, I knew….

“IT” is an 1858 Methodist church right in the middle of the new arts district.  The three levels were each about 2800sq. feet.  The layout was perfect.  Priced under 200K, it was even better.  In Bar Harbor, even the locals can’t afford the price of real estate.  This church was SOLD!
Text Box: We are currently renovating the three levels to house our gallery (Leapin Lizard) on the ground level, a residence on the second floor and several studio spaces for local artists in the basement. The former Methodist church has over 30 stained glass windows, two sanctuaries, 16 and 30 foot ceilings, and a huge pipe organ on the second floor that fills the space with sound. When you are in downtown Covington, stop by the corner of 8th and Main and let me know that you are here!

 www.leapinlizardgallery.com
Text Box: Text Box: As an artist, and now a gallery owner, I have made it my mission in life to further the arts by making Fine Art and American Craft accessible to the public and by fostering an understanding of artistic expression.  As an artist : creating, exhibiting & selling my work, teaching my craft & nurturing a passion for all arts.  As a gallery owner: educating the public about the processes of art, the enriching benefits of living with art, about art in everyday life & encouraging artists to develop the skills and experience to exhibit and sell their work in a public, professional & confident manner.  Text Box: Text Box: Lizz & Jill Godfroy - 726 Main St. - Leapin Lizard Gallery

A LIZARD LANDS IN COVINGTON

 

What we do:

Leapin Lizard Gallery began in Bar Harbor, Maine as a venue to show the work of emerging artists along with those who were already established.  Starting with the idea that art should be accessible to everyone, we hoped to create an environment where people felt welcomed, entertained and inspired while experiencing a variety of artists and their visions.  We believe the gallery has become all of these things and more.  It is an elegant and eclectic mix of extraordinary work where “Art is Life and Life is Art.”

 

Combining fine art and American craft with a twist of whimsy and functionality, the gallery features contemporary artists and exhibits original work including paintings, collage and assemblage, outdoor sculpture, furniture, photography, ceramics, wire, glass, and a wide selection of fabulous jewelry!  Leapin Lizard Gallery has something for everyone!