News Summary
Main and Maxwell Gallery in Greenwood is set to undergo a significant change as Kristen Bennett steps in as the new owner after Laura Bachinski’s retirement. Established in 2016, the gallery has been a cornerstone for local art and community engagement. Ensuring a seamless transition, Bennett aims to build on the gallery’s legacy while keeping it accessible for all art lovers. With plans to enhance social media presence, she seeks to connect more deeply with the Greenwood community and support local artists moving forward.
Big Changes in Greenwood: New Ownership at Main and Maxwell Gallery
Exciting things are happening in Greenwood as Main and Maxwell Gallery gears up for a change in ownership! The beloved retail and gallery shop, located right in the heart of Uptown Greenwood, has been a hotspot for everything local—art, gifts, and a friendly atmosphere since it first opened its doors in June 2016. And now, the current owner, Laura Bachinski, has announced her retirement, effective July 31, 2025, paving the way for the talented Kristen Bennett to step into the owner’s shoes.
A Smooth Transition
For those who may not know, Main and Maxwell isn’t just a store—it’s a community hub. The gallery has thrived over the years, expanding its offerings to include art classes amidst growing customer demand. This latest change has been in the works for some time, thanks to a thoughtful business succession plan that ensures a smooth transition for both employees and customers.
From Intern to Owner
Kudos go out to Kristen Bennett, who has been learning the ropes at Main and Maxwell since she began as an intern in September 2016. Under Laura Bachinski’s patient mentorship, Bennett acquired a wealth of knowledge encompassing everything from banking and inventory management to the crucial art of relationship building with local artists. All of this experience has prepared her to take on the new role as owner with enthusiasm.
Support for Local Artists
One of the key pillars of Main and Maxwell is its commitment to supporting local artists. With over 60 talented creators showcased in the gallery, Bennett is determined to uphold this foundational vision. The shop features a diverse array of artworks, including stunning jewelry, beautiful ceramics, and captivating paintings. It has also become a supportive environment for emerging artists, such as students from Lander University, who benefit from the gallery’s nurturing atmosphere.
Keeping the Spirit Alive
Even as Laura moves into retirement, she’s not leaving the community completely. She plans to continue teaching art classes at the gallery and will lend a hand during busy retail periods, ensuring that her invaluable presence is still felt. This collaborative spirit underscores the importance both women place on mentoring, especially for women navigating the world of business.
Accessible to All
Bennett has exciting plans for the future of Main and Maxwell. She wholeheartedly believes in keeping the gallery accessible for everyone. That means maintaining a range of items at different price points while also fostering a vibrant, friendly atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. It’s this kind of environment that has made the gallery a cherished destination for art lovers in Greenwood.
Connecting with the Community
As she steps into her new role, Bennett is focusing on enhancing the gallery’s social media presence. She believes that a stronger online connection will allow the gallery to share its story more effectively, spotlight local artists, and engage the Greenwood community even further. In this digital age, the importance of online interaction cannot be understated, and Bennett is eager to take those steps.
When to Visit
Main and Maxwell is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Whether you’re a longtime patron or a newcomer eager to explore, there’s something special waiting for you at this local gem. With both Laura’s legacy and Kristen’s fresh ideas in the mix, the future looks bright for Main and Maxwell Gallery!
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- Florida Weekly: The Timeless Treasures of the Oldest House Store
- Spectrum News: Black Culture Art Gallery
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Contemporary Art
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
