From Beaufort to Burlington

Recently, my daughter and I had the opportunity to travel to Burlington, Vermont for what became far more than a mother-daughter get away. What we experienced was a powerful reminder of what can happen when art, culture, preservation, hospitality, tourism, and small business all work together as an interconnected ecosystem.

One of the highlights of our visit was spending time with the incredible team at AO Glass. From the moment we walked through their doors, owners Tove and Rich welcomed both myself and my daughter with extraordinary warmth, generosity, and openness. Their willingness to share not only the mesmerizing craft of glass blowing, but also the story and structure behind their business model, was deeply inspiring.

Watching molten glass transform through heat, movement, patience, and precision was unforgettable. The process itself felt almost symbolic, a reminder that meaningful things are built slowly, intentionally, and collaboratively. But beyond the artistry, what impacted us most was witnessing how organizations like AO Glass have helped shape an entire community identity.

In Burlington’s South End Arts District, creativity is not isolated inside galleries. It lives within the streets, businesses, hospitality spaces, restaurants, workshops, and experiences throughout the city. Art is woven into tourism. Craftsmanship is celebrated as part of daily life. Small creative businesses support one another, creating a thriving environment that benefits artists, visitors, entrepreneurs, and the broader community alike.

It reaffirmed something we deeply believe at the Freedman Arts District:

Art is not simply decoration.Art is economic development.Art is preservation.Art is storytelling.Art is community infrastructure.

What we saw in Burlington was proof that small organizations, when rooted in authenticity and collaboration, truly can help transform entire towns. Perhaps one of the most meaningful realizations from this experience was understanding that art transcends borders, zip codes, and backgrounds. The language of creativity is universal. Passion is recognizable no matter where you are. The conversations we shared, the ideas exchanged, and the inspiration we gained reminded us that communities grow stronger when they learn from one another and remain open to collaboration.

We return to Beaufort energized, inspired, and even more committed to building creative ecosystems that connect artists, businesses, tourism, preservation, education, and community together in meaningful ways.

We are incredibly grateful to AO Glass for their hospitality, generosity, and willingness to share their journey with us. We look forward to continuing relationships with AO Glass and many other artists, makers, and organizations across the country who are helping redefine what creative communities can become.

The future of art is not isolated.The future of art is interconnected.

Cherimie