Serving Whitman County since 1877
Serving Whitman County since 1877
Art begins to appear on the walls while drink options are being determined to fill the wine bar at Pairings in downtown Colfax.
COLFAX - Pairings, a fine art gallery and wine bar, is looking to open during the Holiday Open House.
"This is really the merger of two dreams," said Bob Krikac.
They are the dreams of his business partners Kim DeHart and Carrie Vielle. The three started brainstorming in the spring and coming up with concepts.
COVID has given the opportunity to put more work and time into getting the space ready, Krikac said. The trio hopes that by joining forces, Pairings will be a place people will want to spend time.
"Feel like they've found some magical place, some treasure chest," said DeHart.
DeHart's part of the dream is the wine bar. She has been meeting with winemakers and tasting vintages from around the area and has lined up wines from Whitman County and the Lewis-Clark Valley.
"I'm proud to be representing the eastern side of Washington with the (wines) I already have," said DeHart.
Vielle's side of the dream is a fine art gallery that will challenge the public's idea of art. She plans to expand it with local and "well-beyond" artists, showing contemporary or challenging works of "emerging and mid-career artists." She has signed an emerging international artist and is gathering more of a staple of artists who will show and sell their work at the gallery.
"I'm overwhelmed with the work they (Vielle and Krikac) are doing," said DeHart.
The two artists, and WSU teachers, have put in a lot of time to get the space transformed into Pairings, DeHart added. It's where people can partake in some exclusive tastes in a relaxed atmosphere.
DeHart said they will offer seltzers, beers, non-alcoholic beverages, and food items, mostly small plate things such as cheese, meat, and flat breads. By having the food options, Pairings will be open for those under 21.
The trio is planning on special events such as date nights, Sunday brunch, meet the winemaker, arts workshops, catering and more.
"There will be 'happenings' here," said Vielle. "To be determined."
The space will also be available for renting and private showings. Krikac and Vielle are also working to renovate the upstairs into apartments.
The "wish date" for Pairings' opening is Nov. 12. Currently, the plan is to be open mixed hours Thursday through Sunday and by appointment Monday through Wednesday.
Jana Mathia is a reporter at the Whitman County Gazette.
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