Meet Katy Carignan | Arts Professional and Attorney Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katy Carignan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katy, is there something you believe many others might not?
I have known a number of people in recent years who tell their children to get any kind of degree as long as it’s not liberal arts. A liberal arts education is essential in fostering innovative solutions and connecting people because it emphasizes broad-based learning that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and communication. By studying a variety of disciplines, including literature, philosophy, history, and the sciences, individuals are exposed to diverse perspectives and ideas. This allows them to approach problems from different angles and understand their complexities in a more holistic manner.

Moreover, liberal arts students are trained to think analytically and question assumptions, skills that are crucial in tackling the challenges of our rapidly changing world. The emphasis on interdisciplinary learning means that individuals can draw from multiple fields of knowledge to come up with creative and effective solutions, particularly in situations that require adaptive and forward-thinking approaches.

A liberal arts education also promotes empathy and cultural awareness by encouraging students to explore different worldviews. This fosters stronger connections among people by helping them understand and appreciate the diverse experiences and backgrounds of others. As we navigate global challenges, the ability to collaborate across cultural and intellectual boundaries is more important than ever.

Ultimately, a liberal arts education nurtures well-rounded individuals who are not only equipped to solve complex problems but are also capable of forging meaningful connections and contributing to the betterment of society.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’ve been lucky enough to spend my life working on things I love. I think what sets me apart is being willing to change my path to continue to find what inspires me to create. In my life I have worked professionally as an artist, directed nonprofit arts organization, worked in social service, and been an attorney as well as the founder of an arts and cultural organization and law firm. When I was young I realized when I did could reach more people if I combined my work with others. Collaboration and connecting people is a powerful tool to rebuild communities. It was not always easy but I think grit is helpful. When I hit a wall, I analyze it, can I get around it, over it, under it, through it or should I change direction to reach my goal.

I’ve learned that I shouldn’t be afraid of no. No sometimes opens up new options, helps me find a solution I like better. I want people to know that learning is a powerful tool. I’ve never met a person I haven’t learned from. Sometimes the lessons are painful but sometimes it just means it was an important lesson to learn. Also, I’m never too old to learn something new. Every day is an opportunity.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in a cozy, charming town nestled on the northeast coast of Michigan and Lake Huron with spectacular view and each season brings its own magic. When friends come to visit we start with a sunrise walk on the beach, known for pristine, clear waters. Feel the cool sand between your toes, breathe in the fresh air (the best air quality in the US), and pick up driftwood, fossils and beach glass along the shore. Bring your dog with you and let her lap up the clear cool water from the lake. Take a plunge and enjoy the refreshingly cool water or take a kayak or stand up paddle board for a different view on top of the lake. Keep your eyes open for Great Lakes Freighters making stops at the Port of Calcite. If you’d like to take a closer look, check out the viewing stand in port of calcite to see the ships being loaded with limestone from the second largest quarry in the US. If you still want more history or boats check out the Presque Isle Historical Museum and the Maritime Museum. Put on comfortable shoes and walk our neighborhoods, marina and main street. We have Cook’s Coffee Nook for tasty beverages and a welcoming atmosphere as well as games and good conversation. Check out our murals created by international artists during our Mural Festival in June. Stop in at Shweta’s Pure of Heart Emporium. You will find unique and handcrafted art, jewelry and clothing from around the world. Shweta curates amazing artists and unique items…think of a cross between a gallery and a gift shop where you always find something for the loved ones on your list. Woodland Confectionary is our local candy story with handmade chocolates and curated candies and items from around the world. Beware once you start eating her chocolates you will not stop. If you are still hungry check out Tradewinds Bakery for pastries and donuts that are mouthwatering and Sarah the owner baker is always trying new things. Domaci Gallery and the Urban Bird are and art gallery and clothing store curated by their owners with local artists and clothing loved by locals and visitors alike. If you see something and love it get it because they stock a limited selection.
I love the close connection with nature I feel in this town. People walk, bike, skateboard, and hike year round. Good accessible hiking is at Ocqueoc Falls which is an easy walk for all levels. I love hiking out to Meditation Walk and doing yoga on the beach listening to the sounds of water and wind in the trees. For lunch or dinner head out to Knabe’s Orchard and Cidery. They make their own cider and slushy ciders that are perfect on a hot sunny afternoon. If you like adult beverages order their flight of ciders and a wood fired pizza made when you order it. My neighborhood place is Barilik’s 406 Cafe is a casual place for breakfast or lunch and dinner on the weekends. The Chef owner is likely to come over and check on you and how you enjoyed your food.
In the evening in summer head down to bandshell on Thursdays or Friday for music with Lake Huron in the background. You can also grab a great ice cream at our four ice cream places in town.
The local theatre also needs a visit for a film, performance, or live theatre. If it’s winter take advantage of the snow to snowshoe at Herman Vogler Conservation Area, it’s a peaceful place to see local wildlife and enjoy the birch trees and evergreen’s flocked with with powder. If you’ve got presents for little ones, swing by the Toy Store! With a variety of quirky toys, games, and collectibles, it’s a perfect stop to pick up something playful to remember your visit.
If you are in the mood for art you have to stop at local artist Dorothea Sandra’s Gallery on Huron Street, she’s always got new work on the walls and if you’re lucky you’ll catch her painting something new. The Stone House Studio hosts artists residents from around the world and always has new projects in the work. We have transformed a historic house built in 1911 to be an arts and cultural hub in our community

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shout out to the women who came before me. My friend Jan called me a little eagle who had to fly high. Encouraging me not to allow others to limit my ambitions or put me in a box of their making. She also encouraged me to read widely and deeply and didn’t shy away from discussing serious topics with me even when I was a young child. I also have to shout out to my mom who always let me dance to my own drummer. Sometimes that meant watching a play I organized with all the neighborhood kids or letting me move to Berlin when I was 14. She told me I could do anything I wanted as long as I worked hard enough.

Website: https://www.thestonehousestudio.org

Instagram: thestonehousestudio

Facebook: thestonehousestudio

Other: my law firm is cariglaw.com