Meet Danielle Klein of Willoughby

Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Klein.

Danielle, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Meet Stella’s Art Gallery: Where Community and Creativity Come to Life

Walking into Stella’s Art Gallery feels less like entering a gallery and more like stepping into a living, breathing creative community. Every corner tells a story—through clay, paint, glass, metal, wood, and the hands of the artists who create it.

The gallery was born from a dream over a decade ago, when my mother, Carol Pitts, and I began gathering with local artists in coffee shops throughout Lake County, Ohio. What started as casual conversations among creatives quickly revealed something bigger: Northeast Ohio artists needed a place to connect, collaborate, and truly be seen. We knew we wanted to build more than just a gallery—we wanted to create a home for artists and art lovers alike.

That dream grew rapidly. What began in a modest space soon expanded beyond what we imagined possible. In the middle of the pandemic, we took a leap of faith and relocated to Downtown Willoughby, a vibrant arts community that perfectly matched our vision. Today, Stella’s proudly represents more than 71 local artists from across Northeast Ohio.

Inside our 5,000-square-foot gallery, visitors can explore three floors filled with creativity, including two gallery spaces, 14 artist studios, classrooms, and active working studios where art is constantly being created. The collection is as diverse as the artists themselves—featuring paintings, pottery, jewelry, blacksmithing, woodworking, photography, glass art, and more. Whether someone is searching for a statement piece, a meaningful gift, or simply inspiration, there is always something unexpected waiting to be discovered.

What truly makes Stella’s special is the experience. Guests don’t just view art—they connect with it. They meet artists, hear stories, take classes, and become part of a creative energy that continues to grow throughout the community. Stella’s Art Gallery has become a destination where creativity thrives and where people can rediscover the importance of handmade craftsmanship and authentic artistic expression.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Obstacles & Challenges

Like many small businesses, our greatest challenge came during the pandemic. We had just moved into our Downtown Willoughby location and were excited about this new chapter when suddenly the world shut down. Overnight, the bustling gallery that had once been filled with conversation, laughter, and inspiration became quiet.

For our artists, the impact was devastating. Art fairs, festivals, and markets disappeared, cutting off many of their primary sources of income. We knew we had to act quickly—not only to keep the gallery alive, but to continue supporting the artists who depended on it.

We adapted in every way we could. We embraced virtual tours, expanded our online presence, and used social media to showcase artwork and connect people to creativity during an incredibly isolating time. The challenge forced us to rethink the traditional gallery model and become more innovative, resourceful, and community-driven than ever before.

In many ways, the pandemic strengthened Stella’s. It reminded us why we started this journey in the first place: to support artists, build connections, and create something meaningful together. What could have broken us instead became a turning point that deepened our relationships with both artists and the community we serve.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My artistic journey has always been deeply connected to storytelling, community, and the joy of creating something by hand. I specialize primarily in hand-built ceramics, creating expressive animal sculptures filled with personality, emotion, and charm. Many of my pieces carry a sense of whimsy and character that invite people to form an emotional connection with them. Alongside sculpture, I also create functional pottery such as mugs, bowls, platters, and wheel-thrown pieces that are designed to bring beauty and artistry into everyday life.
What I’m most known for, however, goes beyond my personal artwork—it’s my ability to build creative spaces that bring people together. Art has never been something I wanted to experience alone. From a young age, I was inspired by generations of creativity in my family, watching my grandmother paint and my mother create handcrafted work with incredible care and passion. That foundation eventually led me to earn my Master of Arts in Art Therapy from Ursuline College, where I discovered the powerful role art can play in healing, connection, and community building.
One of the things I’m most proud of is creating Stella’s Art Gallery and watching it grow into a thriving creative hub for Northeast Ohio artists. Supporting over 71 local artists and helping people connect with handmade art in meaningful ways has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I’m proud that Stella’s has become more than a gallery—it’s a welcoming, creative community where artists are encouraged, friendships are formed, and creativity is celebrated every day.
What sets me apart is my belief that art should feel approachable, personal, and deeply human. Whether I’m sculpting clay or building opportunities for artists, my focus has always been on creating connection. I want people to feel something when they encounter art—to smile, feel inspired, remember something meaningful, or simply feel welcomed into the creative process. That sense of warmth, authenticity, and community is at the heart of everything I do.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Honestly, I’ve always been more inspired by people, conversations, and real-life creative experiences than by apps or podcasts. Some of my greatest inspiration comes from spending time with artists, visiting galleries, exploring local art communities, and simply observing the creative process in everyday life. I’m constantly learning through connection—whether that’s talking with artists in the studio, teaching classes, or watching someone discover a new creative passion for the first time.

Because my background is rooted in both art and community building, I’ve found that the most valuable resource has been surrounding myself with creative, passionate people who challenge and inspire me. The gallery itself has become a source of inspiration every day. Being immersed in so many different artistic styles, perspectives, and personalities continually pushes me to grow both personally and professionally.

I also believe inspiration can come from the simplest places—nature, handmade craftsmanship, old buildings, flea markets, family traditions, or even quiet moments spent working with clay. For me, creativity has always been less about consuming content and more about staying connected to the world around me and remaining open to curiosity and discovery.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.stellasartgallery.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stellas_art_gallery/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stellas.art.inc/
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pv90Xd1PWYg&list=PLNKzixmoivzuHuiobYVFJzLjSP3uwkAAB