Jacqueline Bassett, the owner and founder of Juelerye | Artisan Gallery & Gifts, was one of the first people to truly understand what I was doing and believe in my artwork. At the time, both of our small businesses were just starting out, but we shared a vision and artistic values. After exchanging a few tentative DMs on Instagram, Drew and I found ourselves driving out to Mooresville, North Carolina, to meet her and her husband, Nelson, in person. We clicked instantly, and it’s been a match made in Heaven ever since.
Over the years, Jacque has been a constant cheerleader and supporter, and it’s been a delight to watch her gallery grow from a single room in a shared space to her very own storefront. Juelerye remains one of my absolute favorite independent galleries, and I’m honored to be represented there. Juelerye is also the perfect place to shop for unique, handmade gifts for the holidays. If you’re in the Mooresville area, pay them a visit!
The Origin of Juelerye
Jacque has always been the consummate gift-giver. “I was never really the person who went to the mall and shopped,” she explained, “I always tried to find things that were artist-made and handmade for gifting.” By her own account, Jacque would rather not give any gift at all than give something not meaningful.
Her love of artisan crafts was apparent to anyone who stepped into her home and found it brimming with unique and one-of-a-kind treasures. One of her artist friends eventually suggested that Jacque open up a gallery of her own. Jacque didn’t think this dream would be attainable, especially with having a full-time job.
Then, almost by chance, Jacque stumbled across the perfect solution: a multi-merchant space where she could rent an area to be managed by someone else. She signed a lease for 150 square feet of space and just like that, Juelerye was born.
Tragedy and Hope
Only a few months after opening her newly launched business, Jacque faced an unimaginable loss. Her beloved son, Ryan, passed away at the age of 37 due to complications related to 22q deletion syndrome, a genetic disorder. Diagnosed at 16, Ryan was known for his joyful outlook and big dreams. Though Jacque felt the weight of his absence profoundly, she found solace and a renewed purpose through the Juelerye community.
“I didn’t realize at the time that this would be so instrumental in the grieving process,” Jacque recalls, “I poured every ounce of my free time into my little multi-merchant space.” Through her work, Jacque connected with many people of different backgrounds and professions, many of whom were experiencing their own forms of grief. The relationships she forged were more than business – they became a mutual exchange of support and healing. Jacque describes, "I was surrounded by people I could connect with, people who reminded me that beauty and resilience coexist, even in grief."
Honoring Ryan’s legacy, one of Jacque’s artists designed a Wonderful line of pottery inspired by his nickname, Mr. Wonderful. A portion of every of a sale of a cup of wonderful supports the International 22q11.2 Foundation, carrying on his spirit of joy and positivity.
The Power of Community
For Jacque and Nelson, Juelerye is more than gallery – it’s a gathering space where connections flourish, extending even to online customers. Every time a customer places an order, Jacque calls them to thank them and to nurture a lasting connection. “Relationships are everything here,” she reflects. This thoughtful touch makes Juelerye a space where art and friendship thrive.
When it comes to selecting artists to represent in her shop, Jacque first looks for something that catches her attention, that has a Wow factor. But beyond that, it’s important that her artists share her values. For Jacque, a piece of art is as much about the story behind it as it is about the finished product.
I am so honored to be represented by Juelerye today. I know that being included in Jacque’s gallery signifies something deeper, that she’s committed to telling the story behind my work and sharing it with the world.
Juelerye Today
Today, Juelerye has blossomed into a beautiful storefront on bustling Main Street in Mooresville, one of the country’s fastest growing communities. They’ve gone from a handful of artists to representing over 75 brands. The neighborhood boasts tons of fabulous events and opportunities to connect - just what Jacque loves!
When you step into this delightful gallery, you’re sure to discover imaginative gifts that spark curiosity and conversation. More than that, you can trust that every artist represented by the gallery has a vision and a story that’s worth supporting. If you’re lucky, you might even get to meet one of the artists! Jacque always maintains a close personal relationship with all of her artists. She’s made Mooresville into one of my favorite places to visit!
Upcoming events: Holiday 2024
While I won’t personally be making it back to Juelerye this holiday season, my pieces are always available in store and there are tons of great events to make stopping by even more fun.
Mark your calendars for these dates:
Gallery Crawl (11/14 6-8) - The perfect way to explore downtown Moorseville! Visit Juelerye and several other galleries at this fun event.
Mistletoe Sip and Shop (12/6 & 12/20 6-8 PM) Stop by the gallery to sample some wine and browse gifts, just in time for the holidays!
Be sure to say hi to Jacque for me when you stop by!
