A local couple is opening a new art gallery and gift shop in the storefront formerly occupied by Raven’s Nest.

Islanders Brent and Holly Houston have rented the space next to Valise Gallery, and in a few weeks they will open Hinge Gallery, a business that will include a frame shop, space for rotating art shows and a small gift shop.

Last week Brent explained that the new business is one that combines the couple’s skills and experience. Brent, a formally trained artist and woodworker, has more than 15 years experience in framing, and Holly, who has a master’s degree in arts management, managed a premier contemporary art gallery in Chicago.

“It’s kind of a merger between the two of us,” he said. “She gets to curate the gallery space … and then I’ll do more of the retail aspect of the shop.”

The pair moved to Vashon last summer from Chicago, where they also owned a frame shop and gallery. Holly grew up on Bainbridge Island, and they were interested in moving back to the Northwest, where they still have family, Brent said. Holly is now the program manager for Vashon Allied Arts’ Vashon Artists in Schools program.

“Part of what attracted us to the island was all the art here,” Brent said. “It’s so alive.”

Hinge Gallery will feature work by contemporary artists from Vashon and off-island. In its retail space, the shop will carry a selection of posters, prints, letterpress cards, vintage items, handmade gifts and books on art. The Houstons are planning a soft opening in mid-January and a grand opening event on Friday, Feb. 6, during the Gallery Cruise.