Yale Welcomes The Bead Hive II to the Audubon Arts & Retail District

Yale University’s Office of University Properties announces the formal opening of The Bead Hive II, a craft boutique offering high-quality beads, supplies and beading classes, on November 4 at 10 am, at 71 Audubon St.

The opening of this new store in the Audubon Arts & Retail District coincides with the kickoff of the Creative Arts Workshop’s 37th Annual Celebration of American Crafts, an exhibition and sale showcasing more than 400 contemporary artists from across the country.

“We’re thrilled to be opening in downtown New Haven, and to have such wonderful arts-oriented neighbors,” said Barbara Lynch, co-owner of The Bead Hive II along with Rena Mulrain and Ann Sinko.

“When we bring in new businesses to our properties, we look for ones that will complement the character of the District, and I think The Bead Hive II definitely fits the bill here,” said David Newton, director of University Properties.

The Audubon Arts & Retail District, a neighborhood with an arts focus, includes such stores as Yarn; Gilden’s Jewelers; Sogno, Boutique of Dreams; The Toystore on Audubon and Audubon Strings.

“We’ve waited 18 years to fill up the retail spots on Audubon. It is so gratifying that now that Yale’s Universities Properties is in charge, we have a full complement of wonderful stores and merchants,” said Frances “Bitsie” Clark, New Haven Ward 7 alderperson.

From November 5 to December 24, visitors to The Bead Hive II can cross the street and see some of the best examples of American handicrafts at the Creative Arts Workshop’s annual exhibition and sale, “The Celebration of American Crafts.” Items on display will include blown glass, wood furniture, ceramic pottery, hand-sewn clothing, and much more. This annual exhibition is free and open to the public.

“The Celebration of American Crafts is important to the entire community as an opportunity to view current trends and learn about the excitement and value of contemporary arts,” said Susan Smith, executive director of Creative Arts Workshop.