The Heron’s Nest, Vashon Allied Arts’ retail outlet for fine art and handcrafted items made by local and regional artists, has a new manager and will soon have a new look.

It’s a new start for the shop, which has existed for almost 25 years in various locations. For the past dozen or so years, The Heron’s Nest has been housed in downtown Vashon, in the Wallflower Building.

Recently, after an extensive search, VAA hired Ellen Parker as the consignment shop’s new manager.

Parker will replace George Wright, who has worked for Vashon Allied Arts in many capacities over the years, as both a volunteer and staff member. She managed the Heron’s Nest for the past five years.

VAA officials said Parker was hired for her extensive background in local arts and crafts-related retail, as well as the creative business world.

She formerly worked at Giraffe. Before that, she spent 20 years in the corporate world as a print and project manager for a graphic design firm.

She and her husband, composer and musician Jason Staczek, live on Vashon with their 6-year-old daughter Ivy.”

“My family is a family of artists, and I know we have found our niche here on Vashon,” Parker said.

Parker added that she is excited to take the helm at the Heron’s Nest and meet more local artists.

“If you are an artist and have yet to share your work by consigning at Heron’s Nest, we’d love to hear from you,” she said.

According to VAA, the Heron’s Nest will be closed from Feb. 5 until March 1 for a store facelift and reorganization.

A grand re-opening is planned for the First Friday gallery cruise scheduled for March 2.