Patrick Russell has joined the Springfield Art Association as the director of marketing and development.
“The Art Association was a perfect landing spot for me,” said Russell. “It’s been a really nice transition from owning my own business to coming to a nonprofit.”
He opened Reverie Apparel in November 2019 after completing the Co.Starters program through Innovate Springfield, which he credited with inspiring him to start a new business. The location at 407 E. Adams St. made him part of the Adams Family of businesses who collectively market themselves as a downtown destination.
Russell closed the downtown storefront in January, noting that the brick-and-mortar wasn’t as profitable as it needed to be and citing the desire to have his family in a better financial position. He has continued to operate Reverie Apparel as an online business, although he said that model will shift a bit further now.
“The Art Association is going to be my main focus; I’m not going to do pop-up events anymore,” Russell said.
His first day with SAA was Aug. 10, but Russell said he already has plenty to keep him busy. “I’m working on the Hoopskirt and Haber-Dash 5K Fun Run for later this month, then the Roasted event in October and our Buffalo Bash at the end of the year.”
Prior to launching Reverie Apparel, Russell operated his own marketing company, Curtain & Leaf. He also worked as a marketing specialist with Bunn.
