Textile artist Cynthia Mollenkopf has owned and operated the Cocoon Gallery on Downtown Apex’s main thoroughfare since 2017. She knows that running a North Salem Street storefront means there’s often change.
Cocoon Gallery supports a revolving door of 70 to 80 artists, Mollenkopf said, selling to customers who happen past the store or purchase online. Larger-than-life felt creations and colorful rugs hang in the space, bathed in natural light. Little trinkets and treasures sit on shelves you have to be careful not to bump into.
Mollenkopf is also involved in the ever-shifting small business ecosystem that defines downtown; she has given input on several major development decisions, witnessed storefront turnover, and keeps up with her neighbors…