Two million years ago, our common ancestor Homo erectus lived a very different life from ours. They looked different, had significantly smaller brains (not a diss, just facts), and yet, in many ways, their lives weren’t so unlike ours. They used tools. They made art. And perhaps the most striking parallel of all: they thrived in social groups. They experienced community much like we do today.
About a month ago, editor Jodie and I visited the Sager Reeves Gallery to meet with Joel Sager. I’d stopped in once before for a First Friday not long after moving to Columbia, but the gallery was packed, and the memory is fuzzy. This time, the gallery was quiet. Sunlight spilled through the windows and soft music drifted through the empty space. We were there to talk about how we could collaborate on the gallery’s artistic campaign exploring local artists, notable Columbians’ art collections, and the ways people curate their spaces and connect with art. It was refreshing to connect with Joel — a fellow creative (who is extremely talented at what he does) — and to revel in his passion for this campaign. At its core, the project reminds us that art isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s a shared language that lives and breathes among us all. Creativity, like community, belongs to everyone.
Those same themes of creativity and connection kept resurfacing throughout October — during a tour of the Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture, and again at the farmers market. Visiting CCUA was especially rewarding after featuring them in our June issue. Seeing firsthand how many hands come together to grow and share good food with our neighbors was both inspiring and humbling. While shopping at the market afterward, I couldn’t help but reflect on how grateful I am for our local and local-adjacent farmers who work tirelessly (and creatively!) to bring their harvests to our tables.
And then there are those who go even further by nurturing community in the smallest, kindest ways. One of my favorite vendors, Jean Nicklas of Jowin’s Kitchen, has become a familiar and welcome face. Back in February, I wrote a story about her business, and not long after, she surprised our office with a massive gooey butter cake as a thank-you. Now, every time I see her, I buy another mini cake (partly because I love supporting her, but mostly because it’s that good). The last time our paths crossed, I mentioned how I’d forgotten to wear sunscreen, and she immediately offered me hers. It was such a small moment, but it reminded me how community is built through generosity, gratitude, and the simple act of supporting each other.
Columbia is in no short supply of community-building opportunities and people who make the place we live feel like home. I hope you enjoy our “Community” issue, featuring stories about Flourish’s Art Shed, Columbia’s keynote speakers, and Missouri Connections for Health. As always, we’re all ears for your feedback.
