The Inspiring Journey Of Little Beehive Co-Op
Paula Campbell is the driving force behind Little Beehive, the dynamic artist collective and gallery located in Nelson. Hailing from Tauranga, Paula’s journey to Nelson and her subsequent impact on the local arts scene is a testament to her passion for creativity and community. With a commitment to fostering artistic collaboration and supporting local talent, Paula has created a thriving hub for artists and art enthusiasts alike.
Paula Campbell’s story begins in Tauranga, where she grew up with a love for art and creativity. Her journey to Nelson started over 20 years ago when she decided to move for the apple season, a common reason many people find themselves in the region. “I came for the apple season, and like many others, I just fell in love with the place. I went back to Tauranga, but I always felt a calling to return to Nelson,” Paula recalls. Eventually, she made the move permanent, bringing along her kitten and dog, and setting down roots in region.
The idea for Little Beehive was conceived through a collaboration with Rachel Brown, a photographer who shared Paula’s vision for a creative space where artists could collaborate and showcase their work. “Rachel wanted a space to work and display her photography, and we both thought it would be amazing to have a gallery for other artists too,” Paula explains. Their search for the perfect venue led them to Jose Cano, a well-known figure in Nelson’s arts and environmental community. Jose suggested a model where 20 artists could share a space, each contributing to the rent and duties, and thus, Little Beehive was born.
The name “Little Beehive” was inspired by the collaborative and bustling nature of the space. Paula fondly remembers, “Jose actually came up with the idea. He said it in Spanish first, and we loved it. It really captured the essence of what we wanted to create – a hive of creativity.” The collective started with 20 artists, each contributing their unique talents and works, creating a diverse and vibrant gallery.
Running an artist collective comes with its own set of challenges. Managing space and ensuring fairness among artists can be tricky, as Paula notes. “It’s hard to delegate space and make sure everyone feels they have enough room. We had to find a balance between members’ work and our wholesale products,” she says. Despite these challenges, Little Beehive has grown and evolved, moving from its original location on Hardy Street to Bridge Street, and now to its current, more spacious home on Upper Hardy Street.
One of the core principles of Little Beehive is supporting local artists by providing them a platform to sell their work without the high commissions typically charged by galleries. “We wanted to make sure the money went back to the artists. Initially, we didn’t charge any commission, which allowed artists to keep 100% of their sales,” Paula explains. Over time, they introduced a commission model for non-member artists, which helped build funds and support the collective’s sustainability.
Little Beehive is home to a diverse group of talented artists. From Sharon with her natural skincare line, Plant and Share, to ceramic artist Studio Soph, whose sought-after prints have gained widespread recognition, the collective showcases a variety of creative talents. “We have Jude, our sole male member, who creates stunning pottery, and Erica, a gifted jeweller,” Paula shares. Each artist brings their unique touch to the collective, contributing to its rich and eclectic atmosphere.
The impact of Little Beehive extends beyond the walls of the gallery. It has become a central part of Nelson’s creative community, attracting both locals and visitors. Paula is passionate about the city’s potential and the role of creative initiatives in its revitalisation. “Nelson is a beautiful city, and I’d love to see more boutique stores and events come to town to attract more visitors,” she says.
Paula Campbell’s dedication to fostering creativity and community through Little Beehive has made a significant mark on Nelson’s arts scene. Her vision and perseverance have created a thriving space where artists can flourish and where the community can engage with local art. As Little Beehive continues to grow and evolve, Paula’s commitment to supporting and nurturing local talent remains steadfast, ensuring that this vibrant hive of creativity will continue to buzz with life for years to come.
Website – www.littlebeehive.shop
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/littlebeehive123/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/littlebeehivecoop/
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