A space to connect, inspire and flourish....

Nearly, six years ago when Brickhouse Grind planted their roots on the corner of Main Street and East Sandusky Avenue, they never anticipated to see how both their business and Fredericktown would bloom. 

With public and private funding, Fredericktown has seen many revitalization projects happen over the last four years. The Kokosing Park Splash Pad, streetscape projects and new businesses have contributed to the new vibrancy of their downtown area. “There’s something about this community, " said Brickhouse Grind Owner, Karen Susi, “an addictive energy you could say.”

With bright colors, whimsical illustrations and a nod to the community heritage, Karen Susi knew it was time to add a mural to the exterior of The Brickhouse Grind. “Our [coffee] shop is a hub for the community and for guests, we feel it's our job to make sure everyone is greeted with a smile and leaves in good spirits”, said Susi. While this has been a dream for many years, adding art to their building, Karen knew she had to find the right artist that matched her style and goals. “I wanted to find an artist that had a lot of experience and that was also dedicated to their craft. We needed someone who also just understands the importance of bringing art to our rural town”, said Susi.

That's where Mandi Caskey comes in. While out in Columbus, Karen had run across some of Mandi’s work. “I was just taken back by her work”, said Susi. “It was so vibrant and inspiring, so I began to follow her work.” Caskey, based out of Columbus, Ohio, has been a muralist for over 10 years. “This is my passion”, said Caskey. “The best part of this job is interacting with the community when I'm on a job like this. Art just brings people together.” Growing up in a rural town in Northwest Ohio gave Mandi the experience of understanding how important it is to share art with towns like Fredericktown. “I would have loved to see unique art on display in my hometown growing up”, Caskey continued, “Or even just someone like me making the art. I hope when little girls or kids see me working on their murals they are excited that they could do this one day; that their art matters.” 

Mandi’s artwork is now finished at The Brickhouse Grind and is ready for your selfies. “We chose the coffee cup of course, but wanted to add in the flowers to represent that vibrancy and growth of our community”, said Susi. “And of course had to give a nod to our Annual Tomato Show, with the tomatoes on a vine!”

The Brickhouse Grind,10 South Main Street, is open Monday-Saturday and invites guests to grab a coffee, shop their unique gifts, sign up for one of their art classes or visit them during their special events all year long. Launching Fall flavors in the beginning of October, they will also be having their gift shop Fall preview on Thursday, October 3rd. To sign up for classes or stay in the know, visit https://www.thebrickhousegrind.com/.

To learn more about muralist Mandi Caskey, follow her on Instagram @miss.birdy or to shop her original art visit https://birdymerch.myshopify.com/

Local Tip: Plan your next visit to Fredericktown, stop at the Brickhouse Grind for their infamous Brickhouse mocha and to snap a shot in front of the #BHGcupoflove mural!