Minka:(jap)(literally house(s)of the people) Minka was the name for dwellings of farmers, artisans, and merchants of traditional japanese villages. Usually made of natural elements. ~Minka Home is an independant business providing quality, thoughtful products that are designed and created by local artisans. Visit us at 5 Union st. Kennebunkport, Maine. (next to Ben & Jerry's)

	michelle rose-larochelle Michelle Rose-Larochelle is the owner & designer behind MINKA. Being an important theme in all her work, natural elements can be found in all she does from her all natural body care line to her line of jewelry using precious and semi-precious stones. Michelle promotes the use of the earth's resources as healing aides. Her other designs include screen-printed stationery, coasters, pillows, handbags,and many other accessories. She is also well known in the New England area as a top Floral Designer,creating clean, modern arrangements for weddings and events and many of her unique plantings can be found at MINKA. Along with all those artistic acomplishments, she is a practioner of the ancient art of natural healing. Reiki is a hands on treatment that provides healing for the body, the mind and the spirit. Her passion to help and to heal can be felt in all that she does and passing the love is the point of everything.

	christopher larochelle After a brief stint in art school, Christopher moved from Massachusetts to Los Angeles to study special effects makeup. Sometime during his 8 year stay in L.A. a transition was made from painting on faces to painting on canvas. He lined the walls of his Kings Road apartment with artwork quietly creating a space to Expose himself. Many parties were thrown and the positive feedback from the different cast of characters coming through gave him a large amount of encouragement. After a few outside showings in Café’s and galleries, Christopher decided it was time to move back to New England for a change of scenery and some new inspiration. Inspiration came when he met his future wife and muse. Together they opened their own gallery/boutique showcasing their combined talents. Not a believer in explaining his work, Christopher believes art in general should speak for itself. He uses a simple process of clearing the mind and beginning. The plan is to bring to the surface different thoughts, ideas and memories, from distant places that can't be located on a map. Organic creations that provide comfort and at the same time challenge. (who?) Past exhibits include: BUZZ, Los Angeles, CA. GALLERY B12, Los Angeles, CA. FEDERAL SPICE, Portland, ME. GALLERY 27, Saco, ME. UBU STUDIO, Portland, ME. PORTLAND ARTISTS CO-OP, Portland, ME. ABC 4th Annual, Portland ME. Minka, kennebunkport, me.

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