A Creative Oasis: Lockhart, TX
A southward journey that’s worth the drive
Words by Abby L. Johnson Photos Courtesy of Nightbirds Hospitality
Lockhart has that ‘je ne sais quoi’ quality that forces the most skeptical of visitors to take note of the energy, the people, and the esthetics of this quiet, fiercely supportive, and creative town.
Art seems to flourish in certain locations but it’s not so much the physical aspects of a place that turn unsuspecting regions into beacons for painters, poets, and makers of all kinds. One ingredient to a thriving creative community is the backing of the surrounding support system, something the citizens of Lockhart have in droves.
“People who move are intentional about being in the community. Business owners who have moved here are involved and know their neighbors and advocate for things going on in the community,” explains Allie Launius of Stampworthy Goods, a custom furniture restoration shop formerly housed in East Austin. Walking around the block, it’s evident that people know their neighbors well. The air is full of friendly chatter.
The historic main square is the axis of Lockhart’s magic. The 20th century buildings lining the streets are teeming with reimagined life. Every coffee shop, café, and vintage shop are lovingly refurbished, maintaining the integrity of their respective pasts but looking towards the future with enthusiasm.
Two of the main hubs for viewing fine art are Commerce Gallery and Spellerberg Projects. Though each of these galleries focuses on regional artists, national and international artists are shown in Lockhart as well, consistently bringing an influx of new inspiration. “We’re mostly Texas-based artists. That’s really important to us. And we always try to have as much [local art], from Lockhart or surrounding communities, as possible in each show because we really believe that we represent people from our own community,” explains Tamara Carlisle, co-owner of Commerce Gallery.
One artists leaving his mark on Lockhart is Christopher St. Leger. He is a prolific watercolorist whose work is beginning to define the legacy of Caldwell County. Christopher’s work can be seen at Commerce Gallery, where he serves as the Artist-in-Residence.
The forces of Lockhart are constantly drawing in new people. In addition to Allie of Stampworthy Goods’ move, Travis Tober, co-owner of Austin’s Nickel City, opened Old Pal, a charming bar and fried chicken joint that echoes the humility of its Austin counterpart. It’s easy to assume that this renaissance town is just a microcosm of its larger cousin to the north, but that assumptions fails to commend the labor of love its residents have put into building their community. Leading with earnestness and no trace of pretension, this vibrant little town shines.
If you go…
Stay for the night and live amongst the art! Rent an Airbnb from Nightbirds Hospitality to enjoy the full Lockhart experience. Owned by Tamara of Commerce Gallery, each of the living spaces feature work from the gallery’s art collections. Carlisle House is a fantastic option for larger groups while Brock House is perfect for couples or single-sojourners. Each serve as a retreat, conveniently located within walking distance of the square.
Contact:
thecommercegallery.com
stampworthygoods.com
spellerbergprojects.com
christopherstleger.com
nightbirdshospitality.com
