A quaint white house, complete with a white picket fence adorning the yard in Bulloch County has become a gathering place for artist. Within the enclosure, there is a two-story structure, a sprawling lawn, and, what may come as a surprise, a stage. For nearly two years, this unique space has not only provided a small and intimate platform for local and touring musicians, but also fostered a strong sense of community, proving that exceptional experiences can emerge in the most unlikely places.
"It is definitely a grassroots venue for sure," Willow Farmer, founder of The Hollow Haus, explains.
The journey began eight years ago in Statesboro as "The Birdhouse" and evolved through different locations and a pandemic-induced hiatus before finding its current home in Brooklet in the summer of 2023. Farmer, who ran the Statesboro Farmers Market for four years, maintains the venue is a vehicle to connect with others while providing a much-needed space for artistic expression.
"It's been a great way to meet people and let people know that there's a space for them," Farmer says.
The venue itself is as unique as its mission. Situated in Willow's backyard, it utilizes a mother-in-law suite and a carport-turned-studio as the stage and hangout area. The expansive backyard becomes an open-air concert hall where attendees can bring their own blankets and chairs or use the seating provided. Even the house is open to guests, offering restrooms and a cool respite from the Georgia heat.
Farmer is the consummate host, cultivating the relaxed and inclusive atmosphere by offering soft drinks, water, bug spray, and ear plugs in the spirit of accommodating every guest who passes through the gates.
For Willow, encouraging and promoting the artists is paramount.
"We call ourselves an 'artist first' venue because we want to make everything as easy as we can and be a space that supports artists," Farmer explains. "We're not even an official nonprofit, but we don't collect any proceeds. All of the money goes directly back to the artists."
The Hollow Haus operates on a donation-based system, encouraging attendees to support the musicians directly through a suggested fee and merchandise purchases.
Recently, The Hollow Haus hosted headliner New Age Phonograph, a blues-rock husband-and-wife musical duo comprised of Randi Mueck and Matt Nolan. Their journey, from their home state of Oregon to this intimate Brooklet venue, is a testament to the interconnectedness of the independent music scene, which the couple has fully embraced on their first official tour as a married couple.
Their performances are infused with humor, hence the name of their new album, "The Old Ball and Chain."
The Hollow Haus signifies the power of community and the unifying force of music. It's a place where artists can connect with audiences in an intimate setting, and where neighbors can come together to share in the joy of a live performance. For those seeking an authentic and welcoming musical experience off the beaten path, The Hollow Haus offers a refreshing and vital contribution to the local music scene.
For more information about The Hollow Haus, please visit their Facebook page. For more information about New Age Phonograph, please visit their Facebook page or their website.
