Writing by Ella Brown
Thirty-two years ago, Ellie Kimelman opened a shop on Katonah Avenue called the Eclectic Collector with a simple mission: every item in the store would be handmade by an American artist. She’s remained true to her vision and has helped countless clueless gift givers find that perfect piece for even the most difficult recipients. Prior to opening her shop, Kimelman was a competitive ice dancer who eventually ran one of the largest skating competitions on the East Coast. On June 1 she’s closing up shop and moving down south to be closer to her children. We sat down with her before the doors closed for good.
What inspired you to open your shop?
I wanted to support American artists. I always went to craft shows, always bought from them, so I wanted to find a way to keep doing that. I’ve been a collector my whole life and that original impulse really hasn’t changed.
Have your products remained consistent over 32 years?
Pretty much. I appreciate anything that’s handmade. I don’t have to want it all, but I have to find value in it, whether it’s $20 or $2,000.
How do you select the items for your store?
I have to see it; I want to see how it’s made and if it fits the store. And I have to like it.
How has Katonah Avenue changed over the years?
More restaurants, more home goods stores and a lot of turnover in ownership. But we stayed the same; the focus never changed. We were up the street until a couple of years ago, and then we moved down the avenue. It’s smaller, but there’s more light.
Independent retail stores have taken a hit over the past several years. How have you navigated that?
It’s difficult. The reason The Eclectic Collector survived is because I have a following. And we offer something you genuinely cannot get online: one-of-a-kind pieces and the ability to see how something is made, to feel it. People don’t want to buy this kind of work online. You don’t know the quality if you’re buying it that way.
If you had to pick one object that captures the whole spirit of the store, what would it be?
The calendar. It’s hand-carved, magnetic, and it has all the major holidays. It’s folk art. It’s practical. It’s completely handmade. That’s the store in one object.
Why close now?
Thirty-two years is a long time!
Any special events or sales during your final weeks?
From May 15 through 17, we are having a trunk show with jewelry designer Jim LeTernaeau, a Michigan artist whose work the store has carried for nearly 30 years. Plus, we’re having an amazing closing sale—everything is 20 to 50 percent off storewide. Even the display cases and the pedestals are for sale. A lot of people are buying for the holidays and putting it away.
What happens to the items that don’t sell?
I’m moving to Pinehurst, North Carolina, and I can sell any remaining items at a design market there
Why are you moving down there?
My kids live near there. And I’m done with cold winters.
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