Following in the footsteps of spaces like Eyedrum and the Bakery, another addition to Atlanta’s proud tradition of independent multimedia art venues recently entered the scene. Art lover and entrepreneur Paula Nouvelle’s indie event space Heck House opened its doors in Scottdale two years ago and now showcases art, hosts workshops and welcomes creators of all stripes. Nouvelle joined “City Lights” senior producer Kim Drobes and board member and puppet artist Heidi Carpenter to share about the history of Heck House.
The primary impetus driving Nouvelle to create a new art space came from recognizing the great challenge of pursuing a life in art. “I saw the dramatic changes in how artists struggle to afford things and how things get really expensive in Atlanta. So my main goal for this as a non-profit was to make art affordable for people to do, so it’s not an expensive hobby,” said Nouvelle. She added, “Also, it’s really for mental health. If we did what we loved, we’d be more productive and happier.”
The building that now calls itself Heck House was built in 1941. When Nouvelle purchased it, she took on the fixer-upper with gusto, refurbishing the inside while retaining original structures and even paintwork. The venue features outdoor performance spaces, a conference room, a guest/green room and various lounge-able porches and pavilions. Nouvelle, who is hearing impaired, brought in local artist Jert to paint a mural incorporating American Sign Language on its wall.
Read this story now for free
To continue reading, sign up for our newsletter and get unlimited access to WABE.org
You can select your preferences for news and local content. We will never share your email address. Learn how your newsletter sign-up will support WABE and Public Media
