Artistic musings at the Mountain Coffee House

Provided.

Chelsea Tolentino welcomes Andi Hicks to the Mountain Coffee House Gallery Wall as October Artist of the Month.

Chaelsea Tolentino has owned and operated the Mountain Coffee House on Mill Street for the past four years.

It's a modern-day oasis of hot and cold coffees, teas and yummy edibles served in a welcoming ambiance reminiscent of a retro, mid-century coffee house. Over the years, Chaelsea has traditionally hosted local artists, musicians, storytellers and poets. October's featured artist is Andi Hicks who brings her eclectic collection of watercolors, acrylics, embroidery and photography to their gallery wall.

Andi has always been interested in creating art, but it wasn't until her senior year in high school that an art teacher finally arrived at her school. Too late to assemble a portfolio to apply to an art school, so she chose theatre arts, instead. It worked out well for her. You might have caught her on the BeeKay Theatre stage or read her articles about Tehachapi Community Theatre Association's productions.

A longtime resident of 93561, Andi wandered into Mel White's Treasure Trove. It must have been synchronicity as it was about that time Chaelsea was opening her coffee house. It was at the Treasure Trove (now the Tehachapi Arts Center) that Andi discovered a multimedia booklet created by artist and teacher Judith Campanaro. Andi wished to purchase it for her daughter, but Judith told her it wasn't for sale. However, she said, "Andi, could make one of your own." So began Andi's artistic journey. Judith became a mentor and friend, inspiring Andi to try different artistic disciplines. Many interpretations of Judith's inspirations can now be seen on the guest artists' gallery wall at the Mountain Coffee House.

Stop in and check out her work as you enjoy delicious brews, soups and a wide-selection of edible goodies. The Mountain Coffee House is a special venue available for group chats, individual studying and comfortable camaraderie. Why, you can meet the mayor every month or have coffee with our local police officers. It's a great place to enjoy the ambiance and the artistry.

Andi Hicks' interesting and assorted art pieces will be available to view and/or to purchase until Oct. 31. The Mountain Coffee House is located at 120 S. Mill St., Tehachapi. Come by.