By Abbey Flaherty
Julie Kleven, owner of Annex 25 in Westfield, New York, was with her daughter at a painting event where the task was to paint your story on the blank canvases they had been given. It had been years since Julie had painted and tapped into her creative side. Previously she was highly recognized and awarded for the beautiful backdrops she created as an interior designer. That day she sat with extreme reservation, uncertain what to create, until she dipped her paintbrush in the ink and started telling her life story.
In 1998, she had been involved in a car accident that put her previous creative life on hold. She was now 60 years old and legally blind; she had thought her creative days were over and she would remain retired. However, painting sent her chills, a fire inside herself and a reminder of how much she enjoyed the arts and how this was her true passion. She was awakened in a way that she hadn’t felt in years.
Three years later, a new opportunity that she couldn’t have imagined before came to life. While walking down Main Street in Westfield, she came across a vacant space with a number to call for interested buyers and she knew immediately she was the right buyer for the opportunity. Renovating this space, while carefully preserving its history, the once dirty, abandoned store was transforming into something magical and Annex 25 became alive. Creating a space for new and already recognized artists. Annex 25 has been going for six years now and is an incredible place to visit for celebrations and relaxation. It is a unique environment to enjoy music, view the artwork, sip on a craft cocktail and enjoy some delicious tapas.
Aiming to re-open up Memorial Day weekend, Julie is most delighted to welcome back familiar faces and to meet new friends. The art that is showcased will evolve and change throughout the summer. Some pieces will be for sale and others are for viewing and enjoyment. In addition, this summer Julie is excited to offer an art and theatre program for all children.
Annex 25 is located at 25 East Main Street in Westfield, New York.