by Richard Yao
Artistic FX Magazine

Tapestry Rose — you’ll see that the name is quite apropos for this anachronism of delight. You don’t really know what it is until you come and experience it for yourself. Tapestry Rose is a one-of-a-kind destination that is out of place and out of time, but entirely perfect where it is, located on 240 Meadow Road, in Rocky Hill, next to an old railroad track bordering the Connecticut River. The trains still run occasionally, and the oldest ferry in America still operates right down the road. The building that houses Tapestry Rose is, in fact, the old railroad station. Outside, it still looks the part. But once inside, it’s a whole different world

So what is Tapestry Rose all about, exactly? It’s more than a gift shop, it’s more than an art gallery, and it somewhat resembles a museum (inside and out). Going in, you pass under a lush green trellis. Inside, the first thing you’ll probably notice is… everything. The place is a cornucopia of likable things, large and small, hanging or sitting on the floor, many colors and shapes, glittering things, fluid things, electronic things and wearable things. And there’s more – if you look behind an alcove, the store goes further back, featuring more goodies, gifts, toys and decorative things. Then you’ll feel the breeze from the ceiling fans above. This explains why some feathery things seem to be swaying and moving. Since you’re looking up, you’re bound to draw in the whole scene, and then you hear it. The whole time you’ve been in here you’ve been hearing the light oldies playing, some jazz, some big bands, some blues. The whole place feels right. You start to really enjoy yourself, taking time browsing at all the neat stuff you can buy – unusual clothes (average $50-$100); hand, ear, neck and other body jewelry (from $3 up); light furnishings (lamps, small bookcases, all purpose stands); fine art on the walls ($200-$600); toys (for old and young, such as the “windable” for $10); frames, vases, scarves, camping gear, crystalware, flower pots, gardening things, and much more. There is a bridal registry and wish list for your use. You’re bound to find something for any occasion.

Tapestry Rose might have just been known as Tapestry if it wasn’t for Sally Farrell, founder and owner, who is the Rose in Tapestry Rose. She had her eye on the station for a long time, and in 2000 it became available. Sally brought friends together to help her renovate the interior. “A little vision, and a lot of love from friends” is how this Rose blossomed, Sally says. Although it took quite some time to become the treasure that it is today, it is much more than two years of delightful substance. It is a culmination of 20 years of dream and hope, and the amalgamation of countless respected and talented artists, craftsmen, seamstresses, jewelers, inventors, and many other artisans. Come and explore this wonderful place that is Tapestry Rose.