Just outside of downtown Brooklet, a remarkable story of faith, art and community unfolds at The Mustard Seed Shoppe. This unique art shop and gallery has become a hub for local artists and art enthusiasts thanks to the vision and dedication of Melissa Dentits founder.
Grice Connect’s Juliana Leverett had the opportunity to dive into the inspiring journey of Dent, a former art teacher turned entrepreneur whose faith-based mission has cultivated a thriving haven for creativity.
Melissa Dent’s transition from teaching art to heading up the Mustard Seed Shop in downtown Brooklette was nothing short of a leap of faith. With the support of two other women, Dent transformed her vision into a vibrant storefront that currently hosts the works of 41 local merchants. These artists, all located within a 100-mile radius—with a significant number coming from Brooklette and neighboring cities like Statesboro, Guyton and Savannah—find a common home for their creations at The Mustard Seed Shoppe.
“The whole experience was guided by God,” Dent recounts. She clearly remembers struggling with doubts and fears, echoing the sentiments of many who feel unworthy of their calling. “Who me? I just taught, worked in several places, raised two children. I was like, “God, you must have got it wrong.” But it’s really a story of faith,” she shares, reflecting on the unexpected path that led her to where she is today.
This journey saw its tangible beginning after the pandemic, marking the birth of The Mustard Seed Shoppe just a few years ago. Dent’s story of how she found the location of her business is as miraculous as her original vision.
One day she was just driving down the road and made a turn that she does every day for her daily commute and she noticed new construction and saw for the first time where her current business building was being built. And without even seeing much more than the foundation, she says, God revealed to her spirit that this was the building of her vision.
This serendipitous discovery led her to secure the leased space in an astonishingly short time, laying the groundwork for what would soon become a beacon of local art.
The Mustard Seed Shop is a testament to the diversity and wealth of local talent.
“We have something for everyone, we really do, it’s something I’m really passionate about. Highlighting the diversity of styles and pieces and as a space where everyone feels welcome and accepted,” explains Dent. The store features an eclectic mix of art forms, from ceramics and metalwork to crochet and wood carving, ensuring that every visitor will discover a unique treasure.
Dent emphasizes the unique nature of the art available, stating, “There is a treasure around every corner. There are actually no duplicates. If you buy something from our store, you truly walk away with a one-of-a-kind, different, and unique piece of art made by a local artist who has put their heart, passion, and history into this piece. Anyone who is an artist knows that this work really is like therapy for many of us. It helps us process and heal.”
In addition to serving as a marketplace for local art, The Mustard Seed Shoppe has emerged as a vital platform for local, rural artists who previously lacked opportunities to showcase their work. Dent talks about the store’s transformative power.
“That was one of the most interesting things for me, part of the testimony of this place, I was shocked at the amount of artists, the amount of credible talent right here in Brooklett, Georgia of all places, you know, and they just didn’t have a place or opportunity, but now they have, and they’ve really emerged,” she shared. “It is incredible to say that we are Brooklett’s first art gallery open to the public, and although small, as our namesake The Mustard Seed suggests, through great faith we are making a big impact in our community.”
Her passion extends to nurturing and empowering local artists, many of whom have never had the chance to present their art and skills to an audience.
Community response to The Mustard Seed Shoppe has been overwhelmingly positive, with the shop continuing to attract artists and customers. Dent’s vision extends far beyond the present as she aims to continue fostering a space that welcomes artists of all paths, beliefs and styles.
“We are more accessible to most people living in rural communities and are only about 15 minutes from Statesboro. The thing is, once you get here you’re blown away by all the stunning work and unique pieces and standout art, people will walk around for hours and find something new every time they turn a corner. We’re really a small, hidden gem in the community, but I know we’re growing, I know this is just the beginning,” she states with humble confidence.
At the heart of The Mustard Seed Shoppe’s success is a deep sense of gratitude and community. Dent values the relationships she has built with the artists, many of whom have become close friends.
“Every day I give glory to God for this beautiful opportunity. I’m just grateful to be surrounded by artists who are as passionate about their work as I am. Many of the sellers have become great friends, and that’s the point, right? To create a community space, build relationships and support each other as we go through life. And what better way to make those connections than through art.
Built on the principles of faith and community support, the shop has successfully provided a platform for local artists to display their work, contributing significantly to the cultural richness of the area. Through Dent’s initiative, The Mustard Seed Shoppe not only highlights the diversity of local talent, but also fosters a sense of community among artists and patrons alike.
As The Mustard Seed Shoppe continues to grow, the establishment serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local arts as a means of enhancing community life and cultural identity.
The Mustard Seed Store is located at 323 N Cromley Road in Brooklett, GA. The storefront is currently open Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, please call (478) 986-0949.