Sparta Couple Uses Passion for Art to Open Shop

Valerie and Randy Norris cut the ceremonial ribbon with friends and family during the grand opening of their new store – The Art Bin – in Sparta Friday (Photo: Logan Weaver)

A Sparta couple’s new business will allow people to show off their artistic skills as they officially opened The Art Bin Friday.

Valerie Norris, a former school psychologist, with help from her husband Randy, opened the store out of her passion for art.

“I’ve been thinking about doing something like this for awhile,” Valerie said. “I’ve been to several places to paint before and I just find it so relaxing and calming. I changed careers and decided to open my own canvas painting shop because that’s what I’m passionate about.”

Both Valerie and Randy said the process to get the building had its hurdles but are happy to have their own business.

“It’s been stressful,” Randy said. “We’ve done it all ourselves,” Valerie added. “We painted, we decorated… we rented the building in May. I had seen a little place like this in Cookeville and mentioned it to Randy, and he said ‘well there’s a place in Sparta that looks just like that.’ So we came over here, we met Karen (the owner)… and it just took off from there.”

Valerie was nearly overcome with emotion as she and her husband hosted members of the community for their grand opening.

“It’s just… it’s amazing,” Valerie said. “I’m just proud she had the courage to follow her dream,” Randy added. “This is her passion, and I support her 100 percent.”

The Art Bin is located on 408 North Spring Street Beside Charity’s Bake Shop and Domino’s Pizza and can be found on Facebook. Group painting sessions are welcomed and the store accepts everyone with special rates throughout the week.