Meet our Gallery Director: Korie Ellis-St. Pierre

After a year as Community Coordinator in New Bedford, Korie seamlessly transitioned into the role of Gallery Director. Even before this shift, Korie contributed her creative ideas and energy to the gallery as if it were as natural as breathing. The more you get to know her, the clearer it becomes that this is no exaggeration. Korie weaves art into every facet of life, drawing inspiration from family, community, and the beauty of imperfection. Her deep passion for art and connection has transformed the gallery into a dynamic, welcoming hub where creativity and authentic relationships flourish.

What brought you here? How did you come to be Groundwork’s Gallery Director?

I was the Community Coordinator at Groundwork New Bedford, where I began learning event-related tasks, was given opportunities to share ideas about the gallery, and then evolved into the title of “Gallery Director” (thank you Nicole and Sarah!).

What is your vision for the gallery

My vision for the gallery is for it to serve as a bridge between this beautiful, commission-free space and the artists and visitors who bring it to life. I see it not just as a place to display artwork, but as a living, breathing part of the community. One that invites connection, curiosity, and collaboration. The fact that Groundwork continues to open this space up to both emerging and established artists is something truly special. It cultivates an environment of accessibility and mutual respect, where all creative voices are welcomed and valued.

What are your long-term goals for the gallery?

I wouldn’t say I have any rigid long-term goals at the moment. I’m really enjoying the natural ebb and flow of this role and allowing it to evolve organically. That said, one idea I’ve been sitting with is finding ways to create more moments of connection within the gallery during exhibitions, beyond the usual opening receptions. Whether it’s artist-led events, art talks, or interactive elements, I’d love to experiment with new ways to invite people into the space throughout a show’s run.

Tell us about a memorable art show or experience you’ve had as Gallery Director

A truly meaningful moment was when Don Wilkinson, a brilliant writer for The New Bedford Light, covered an exhibition featuring the students of Our Sister’s School. Read it here! His piece offered these young artists a powerful platform by amplifying their voices, creativity, and unique perspectives at a time when even many adults are struggling to process the world around them. It was both beautiful and deeply important.

What are some of the biggest challenges that come with running an art gallery?

I guess the whole back-end aspect of it all, but that is always the biggest challenge for me in any work that I do because I like to spend as much time as possible in la-la land. It’s not that big of a deal though. I’m learning that it takes less time to reply to an email than to stress for days about not replying to the email.

What are your thoughts on the role of an art gallery in the community?

I believe that any space where art and community can come together is a gift. There’s something joyful, vital, and deeply connected to the spirit of a place. I grew up in Freetown, MA, and let’s just say… gallery openings, art workshops, or community-centered events weren’t exactly part of our everyday life. Living, working, and existing in New Bedford has been a personal and professional evolution for me. An uplevel in every sense. I’m proud that my kids will grow up surrounded by creativity and access to experiences I never had.

Tell us about your other work/art outside of your duties as Gallery Director

I am a natural dyer and the creator behind Falling off Trees— a creative studio dedicated to plant-based color, workshops, and sustainable collaborations. I share a studio space in downtown New Bedford with my lovely friend and photographer Samantha Garlington where we host community clothing swaps and events. I’m also a mother and wife, which I love but also see as work (when you’re really trying not to do a sub-par job ). ; )

How do you integrate art into your life and other responsibilities?

I really desire to live a life where art and play is integrated within most aspects of it. And that doesn’t mean that every moment is delicate, easy, and beautiful. But there’s plenty of moments— even in the really mundane tasks of human existence— that can be artistic if you have a good enough imagination.

Who are some of your favorite artists?

My husband is one of my favorite artists. I bought his first print when he was practicing photography in NY before we were dating (I didn’t know it was his first print, and the dude said he was giving me a “discounted price”). Lol. But he is very artistic in most of his expressions..and is unapologetically original about it.

What or who inspires you?

The sun and the simple act of existing are enough to inspire me when I really sit with it. I’m also deeply moved by my family, friends, and the community I’m lucky to be surrounded by. I feel most alive in conversations where me and the other people are lit up, bouncing ideas off each other and watching something beautiful unravel in real time. That kind of shared energy…. it just lights me up.

The aesthetic of Wabi Sabi also really inspires me. As well as when flowers or weeds grow from concrete cracks.

What are some of your goals for the future?

To show up each day as the person I really needed as a kid.

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Nicole Cosme

General Manager at Groundwork

Nicole worked in Health & Human Services for over a decade before ending up at Groundwork. She started as the Community Coordinator in Fall River and now oversees operations at both locations.