NEGA Arts Tour Stop: From Blues to Brushstrokes with Beth Brightwell at Old Storehouse Art

If walls could talk, the ones at Old Storehouse Art in downtown Dahlonega would have endless stories to tell. This one-of-a-kind gallery blends history, character, and local art into a must-visit destination on the Northeast Georgia Arts Tour, June 6–8, 2025.

Owned and curated by artist and designer Beth Brightwell, Old Storehouse Art features an eclectic collection of original works from regional artists—paintings, glass, fiber art, jewelry, and more—all thoughtfully displayed in a space with a history all its own. Originally the living quarters of the Stanton Storehouse in the late 1800s, the property was also a grocery store in 1980s before becoming the gallery we know today.

It’s owner, Beth Brightwell, is no stranger to stories herself. Growing up in an art-loving family in St. Louis, Missouri, Beth Brightwell was surrounded by music—the operatic strains her mother played every Sunday and the soulful blues that flowed through the city’s streets. Though she didn’t begin painting until later in life, Beth found her voice through oil and acrylic, drawing inspiration from reference photos of the blues and jazz musicians who shaped her childhood.

After relocating to Dahlonega in the 1990s, she quickly became a beloved part of the local arts scene through her involvement with the Bleu Gallery before setting off on her own to found Canvas & Cork, a unique fusion of wine tasting room and art gallery. It’s wine bar—covered in the signatures of its many patrons and visitors— became a hub for creatives and curious visitors alike, drawn in by the vibrant art, fine wines, and Beth’s signature brassy storytelling. It was this same feeling of warmth and welcome that drew in Bryan and Meagan Garris and inspired them along with Brightwell to found the Dahlonega Arts Alliance and share the feeling of tight-knit community they loved there.

Never to rest on her laurels, Beth has once again transformed the space—retiring the well-worn wine bar to launch Old Storehouse Art, a dynamic gallery and teaching studio offering classes in mediums like alcohol ink, watercolors, and oils, as well as drop-in painting projects and private party sessions. What hasn’t changed is the love of stories, good times, and community. You can even still the wood from the old wine bar covered in signatures now in the walls of the archway over the classroom area. Old Storehouse Art continues to serve as the home of the Dahlonega Arts Alliance, hosting its monthly meetings, the DAA Gallery, and many annual events.

Tour goers will look forward to the 20+ local artists showing their work in the gallery and the opportunity to join in the fun with their own “Drop in and Paint” projects. Special to 2025 Arts Tour weekend, visitors can enjoy the DAA Member's Gallery Exhibition inside, while across the street in Hancock Park, the Alliance will host Summer Art in the Park, featuring over 30 local artists and a full day of live music. At the center of all, Beth is there—working on her own pieces, ready to help encourage someone to learn a new technique, and with a great story to tell. Don’t miss this worthwhile tour stop in the center of everything Arts related right off of the historic Dahlonega Square!

Learn more about Old Storehouse Art at their website or on social media @oldstorehouseart.

Learn more about Northeast Georgia Arts Tour at their website or on social media @negaartstour.