Inspirational space: Tapping into the creative vibe of Vineyard Haven

Take a summer stroll with me down Main Street, Vineyard Haven.

I once worked on a book proposal with a former Geographer of the United States called Inspirational Space. The book never came to pass, but it sensitized me to places charged with creative energy—like Vineyard Haven, Martha’s Vineyard’s year-round port town.

When in need of a fresh perspective, a creative revival, I head out for Main Street. Each block offers something to revive and to spark new ideas.

Here are my current favorites:

#1: Vineyard Haven Public Library (because we all need a makeover now & then.)

For a year now, I’ve started my trek with a check on our library’s renovation. It’s a reminder that we all need to revamp occasionally: consider where we are, where we want to be.

But this day I find the doors re-opened: the renovation is complete! (By the time this publishes, the library will be busy hosting events in its all-new event room, like this conversation between author Lavinia Spalding and author/filmmaker Natalie Baszile.)

Renovation can be arduous—but it’s worth it. [Photo: B. Horrigan]

#2: That Main Street cottage (and imagining other lives)

Continuing east, I pause to consider this cottage. It has an ancient feel about it and has always called to me. I’ve never been inside but like to imagine who’s lived there and what stories its walls could tell.

What places in your town stir your imagination? [Photo: B. Horrigan]

#3: Linden Tree Park (pausing to appreciate other people’s practices)

Linden Tree Park is a glorious reminder of how fiercely Vineyarders love—and preserve—their history.

The linden tree—planted just after the devastating 1883 fire—grew here for over a century and became “the heart of the town.” It came down in 1996, but a sapling replaced it.

Linden Tree Park remains a gathering space; locals tend it with care. I know one of them: He does it at his own expense, with too-little recognition. This is his art. I’m grateful for his practice.

The original linden tree is gone but Linden Tree Park still has its creative caretakers [Photos: B. Horrigan]

#4: Bunch of Grapes Books (great reads even in the windows)

I’m not on Main Street to shop today but still can’t resist a stop at our bookstore. After, I head outside and around the corner because I love checking out its one window where posters promote dance, theatre, music, film. These few square feet of glass capture the creative spirit pumping through this town.

There are so many ways to create. A fact I’m reminded of just a few yards on, at The Stitchery MV. Needlework is an art I am (very very) new to and (very very) bad at. But in this little sewing studio next month, that’s gonna change.

A de facto community creativity bulletin board at the bookstore; continuing down the side of that building leads to the future home of The Stitchery MV. (Can't wait to see that "Open" sign in the window.) [Photos: B. Horrigan]

The walk back home

On another day I will honor Oscar Wilde and give in to temptation: get an iced mocha at the garden cafe, try on outfits at my favorite boutique.

But now I can’t wait to get home and return to my project, refueled by a stroll through what is, for me, the most inspirational space in the world.

Bonus shots…just because: