Artist retiring to MN...where to live around the twin cities? (Stillwater: apartments, homes)

[graphics]

You might contact a Jewish organization in Minnesota too. Since you will become part of the community they would help you. Good luck with your art, Minnesota has a healthy art community. And big congrats on the $500k during this economy.

[ravenfeathers]

didnt say whether needing good neighbors ,or artist mentality/?

[DaphneinMN]

There ARE larger homes in Highland, check Upper St. Dennis, etc. And the market right now is so soft, you could probably get a decent deal; still, it will be cheaper if you go further out. Have you considered Marine on St. Croix? I have heard that it is a good community for artists, there are tons of parks and trails, and some funky houses in the Jackson Meadow development. We are looking at moving back to the Twin Cities after two years in Washington, and are considering the St. Croix river valley for the gorgeous views.

[mn242]

Thanks Daph...I know several artists who live in that area and we will take a look...a friend said Stillwater is touristy and encouraged us to look to the North....

[Kid Cann]

have you made the move yet?

[crazyme4878]

Originally Posted by DaphneinMN

There ARE larger homes in Highland, check Upper St. Dennis, etc. And the market right now is so soft, you could probably get a decent deal; still, it will be cheaper if you go further out. Have you considered Marine on St. Croix? I have heard that it is a good community for artists, there are tons of parks and trails, and some funky houses in the Jackson Meadow development. We are looking at moving back to the Twin Cities after two years in Washington, and are considering the St. Croix river valley for the gorgeous views.

And it seems like the arts are growing--at least a little--in the St. Croix valley. I was home in April and they were advertising an artists' open house tour for an upcoming weekend. I don't get home too much, but everytime I do, there seems to be more and more "artist" type news/groups/events. Extremely beautiful area.

[golfgal]

Originally Posted by mn242

Thanks Daph...I know several artists who live in that area and we will take a look...a friend said Stillwater is touristy and encouraged us to look to the North....

Stillwater is touristy but not "cheesy 10 t-shirts for $5 touristy". There are a lot of quaint shops and antique stores downtown and Stillwater has a long history of supporting some pretty well known artists. Tamarack Gallery has been around for a very long time and supports many painters, potters, sculptors, etc.

[crazyme4878]

Originally Posted by golfgal

Stillwater is touristy but not "cheesy 10 t-shirts for $5 touristy". There are a lot of quaint shops and antique stores downtown and Stillwater has a long history of supporting some pretty well known artists. Tamarack Gallery has been around for a very long time and supports many painters, potters, sculptors, etc.

I agree. Stillwater is touristy in the way that if you want to have a special date night, you look to a restaurant in Stillwater. Think wine bars, quiet bistros, walking along the river, unique boutiques, galleries, interesting used-book shops, etc. A lot of beautiful old homes, too. I met a friend in Stillwater this past April. We had dinner at a wine bar and then walked around. A lot of people out walking and enjoying the nice spring night, families at the Teddy Bear park, couples out to eat. The only real negative I can think of is traffic. I remember traffic was always horrible when I was growing up, but I don't know if that has changed or not.

[Jade817]

I think Stillwater is beautiful and it is not like Disney touristy. I kow several artists that live right in Afton

[kotkoda]

If you would like to live in more of an artist community I recommend Lowertown Saint Paul. It is a huge artist scene and it is easily accessible. There are lofts available there specifically for artists.