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Upstart Gallery Continues Cooper Street Rejuvenation

By Nigel Chiwaya | December 11, 2013 4:03pm
 The brand new art gallery features pottery, clothing jewelry and art from area artists.
Upstart Gallery opens on Cooper Street
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INWOOD — The rejuvenation of Inwood's Cooper Street took another step forward Saturday, as a brand new art gallery opened its doors.

Upstart Gallery, owned by Park Terrace East resident Diane Ninos, is now selling clothing, jewelry, baskets, and paintings from local artists at its new 93 Cooper St. location.

"It's been a long time coming," said Ninos, 60. "I've always wanted a gallery here. Whenever I need a gift I find I'm buying downtown or out of town. I wanted some place close by."

Upstart is the second business to open along Cooper Street this winter; Inwood Gourmet welcomed its first customers one week earlier. The two stores are right next to each other, and Ninos said it's been exciting to see both open at the same time.

"I tell customers to buy bags here and fill them next door," Ninos said.

In addition to art and clothing, Ninos said she's the shop will host poetry readings and even classes that would teach participants to turn their sweaters into jackets.

"I want people to keep their things and enjoy them," said Ninos, who said that the store operates on a philosophy of responsible purchasing and sustainability.

That philosophy is evident during Upstart's first week, as Ninos has invited Pop-Up Repair, an itinerant repair service for household goods, to stay in her store for a week.

"Honest, they could stay for another week if they wanted to," Ninos said.

Upstart Gallery is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information email dianeupstart@gmail.com.