Inhabit Gallery in Warren is switching things up. Instead of hosting monthly exhibitions showcasing works from local artists, co-owner Torsten Mayer-Rothbarth is taking a new approach: moving to quarterly exhibits. “Instead of a monthly whirlwind, we’re curating four focused, fabulous shows throughout the year,” he explains. “Think of it as quality over quantity – like swapping out a dozen donuts for one really, really good croissant.”
As one of the newer galleries in the proudly eclectic town, Inhabit has quickly become a destination for art lovers. It operates as both an art gallery and a retail shop in the historic Sequino Building that also houses The Collaborative, Imago, and Made in Warren. “We opened in the winter of 2023, so this is our second year,” says Mayer-Rothbarth, who operates Inhabit along with his wife Megan Mayer-Rothbarth.
The shop offers a selection of high-end artisanal brands, including handwoven products from Bristol Looms, tableware from Corrinn Jusell, and home goods from East Fork. Quarterly exhibitions and gallery nights ensure plenty of foot traffic “That means a lot of local and regional artists with shows and workshops will be here throughout the year, and European artists will share their work as well,” says Mayer-Rothbarth.
The new “less is more” gallery agenda kicks off with a groundbreaking exhibition from Rhode Island-based fiber artist Suzi Ballenger, titled Disrupted Order, on display through June 23. The collection is inspired by the natural world, encompassing everything from expansive farms and vibrant gardens to the nearby ocean. Ballenger’s innovative approach to fiber art challenges conventions, transforming ordinary materials into remarkable expressions of texture, movement, and rhythm. “I see personalities in the fibers I work with,” says Ballenger. “My art is about listening to those personalities and weaving them into a visual conversation.”
Mayer-Rothbarth, a native of Germany, is himself a woodworker, and several pieces of his handmade furniture are available for sale in the store. He moved to the United States after meeting his wife, a teacher, in 2010.
The couple relocated from California to Barrington in 2020. He says the creative community in Warren has welcomed the store with open arms. “Last year there was an article in Yankee about Warren being the nicest town to live in New England,” says Mayer-Rothbarth. “We have these initiatives like Discover Warren, which started out as part of Discover Newport, trying to promote Warren as a destination for visitors. It has a lot of great restaurants, and some really nice bars. There’s shopping, history, art, food, and drinks, you name it. It’s all about the experience you have when you visit.”
Mayer-Rothbarth is excited about upcoming exhibitions at Inhabit, including Summer Heat (June 28 – September 21) with professor Andrej Glusgold, a photographer and educator from the University of Europe for Applied Sciences in Berlin, Germany. “He’s bringing a unique perspective – and some seriously cool linocuts – all the way from across the pond.” Later this year, Autumnal Vibes (September 27 – November 23, 2025) will feature local artist Sarah Hess. “Her block prints, inspired by the American Arts and Crafts movement and vintage botanical illustrations, will bring a touch of cozy autumnal magic to the gallery,” adds Mayer-Rothbarth. Learn more at Inhabit.gallery.
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