Meet Ann Madden and Sandy Maggio of Smith + Lens Gallery in Bay Saint Louis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ann Madden and Sandy Maggio.

Ann and Sandy, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
We were introduced at a special Women in Business” pop up event and ended up having our work (Silversmith & Photographer) in a shop that closed soon after so we jumped at the opportunity to take over the building and re-establish it as an art gallery featuring our work as well as the work of other incredible, regional artists.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been pretty smooth. We are so lucky to have the support of our community and the enthusiasm of the artists.

Smith + Lens Gallery – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We knew we wanted to be an inviting art gallery and gathering place for the community. A place where people can visit and swap ideas. We have loved connecting with our Coast this way. We have our openings on the final Friday of each month and stay open later on 2nd Saturdays. We also proudly celebrate Frida Kahlo in July with Frida Fest and Dolly Parton in January with Dolly Should. It’s a blast!

What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Frida Fest and Dolly should and the way they have grown and brought the community together.

Contact Info:

• Address: Smith + Lens gallery
  106 South 2nd Street
  Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi 39520
• Website: Smithandlens.com
• Phone: 2282546006
• Email: smithandlens@gmail.com
• Instagram: @smithandlens
• Facebook: @smithandlens

Image Credit:
Ann Dinwiddie Madden (Lens)

Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.