Things I Like by Catherine

Catherine Ehrenberger, owner of Things I Like by Catherine and board member of the Bayshore Arts District, had unexpected beginnings as a chemist major living thousands of miles away in the Midwest suburbs. However, her story shares a theme that’s all too familiar to the residents of Naples, Florida. Ehrenberger fell in love with the cozy and charismatic town. Her corporate career took her all around the world, but Bayshore ended up being the residence for her and her gallery.

Ehrenberger has always had an appreciation for art, purchasing her first original piece her senior year of college. She found the art had enhanced her mood, the colors uplifting and composition comforting. In the neighborhood just as vibrant, Ehrenberger attended a meeting discussing the future vision of Bayshore. The potential artistic enclave has been an ongoing project for decades, but Ehrenberger knew it was the perfect time and place for the genesis of her gallery. 

Converting the property that was originally a house took two years, now Ehrenberger is on her third season since opening. The vibrant and inviting gallery lodges both local and global art mixed with décor, sculptures, and furniture to capture the secure atmosphere of a home. Ehrenberger says, “This gallery is really about joyful, bold, and colorful art. My inspiration is to help people find that piece of art that will bring those feelings to their house. Something they love to look at and are proud to show.” 

In addition to the gallery, Ehrenberger is a board member of the Bayshore Art District. Last summer, the inspiring initiative became more than just a vision with its official declaration as a nonprofit group. The goal was to unify individual businesses into a collective whole, collaborating on a quirky and unique vibe that puts Bayshore on the map. Together, with direction from the Bayshore Art District board members and the combined effort of local businesses, the community has successfully hosted First Friday events at each organization. On the first Friday of every month, local vendors, artists, and musicians make an appearance at each participating shop. 

Starting in October, Things I Like by Catherine will be hosting artists from all over the country at her gallery for the First Friday events. Guests can speak with the artist directly about their creative process and inspiration. Ehrenberger shares, “I’m doing it to promote artists I believe in and make an art gallery accessible to the community here. To put an art gallery here in Bayshore is a commitment to the community and also to the future of the community.”

Things I Like by Catherine is located at 3954 Bayshore Drive. To follow Ehrenberger’s journey and artistic vision for Bayshore you can check out her website at thingsilikebyc.com or Instagram at things_i_like_by_catherine.