Faatma Mehrmanesh is a small scale farmer and an artist who lives in Park Hill. She is passionate about what she does and where she lives. She shares her authentic and unique story with Denver Vibe today.
What neighborhood do you live in?
NE Park Hill
Why did you choose Park Hill to run your business in?
The farming is needed in Park hill, we need a stream of locally grown food. There’s an inequity of access to food – no natural grocers, no independent grocers. The stereotypes say people in the ‘hood don’t want to eat vegetables — they do, but they’re not available at WalMart.
The pottery is done in my home. Denver does not have a large amount of potters, but there’s a history of pottery mostly in North Denver. She believes in home based business and low overhead.
Why did you choose that neighborhood to live in?
Long time resident; East HS grad with three children (freshman, junior and senior) that now attend East.
What are your favorite local places?
Tattered Cover, Pete’s Gyros on Colfax (where her mother has worked for over 30 years)
What about this neighborhood jives with your business culture?
Faatma is running a CSA out of her home this year after the unfortunate development of the plot where she had it last year. The NE Park Hill neighborhood is not moved by fads. They’re interested in quality and honoring legacies which Faatma also does. Small farming looks new school; but it’s actually quite old school.
Why are you passionate about your business? What’s the story?
Faatma went to art school and the creative side of farming works with her creative side and interest in environmental issues. Lots of problem solving in small scale farming; she talks to the plants and likes it. Beautiful organic food is nutrient dense. Park hill supports small businesses; not many franchises here.
What inspired the look of your business/ the design?
There are cyclical patterns in the planning and a visual element connected to the science. It’s circular in design; a closed loop system.
The pottery combines all elements of art that she loves — drawing, utility, sculpture. It’s not a quick reveal, but a slow process.
What do you love about Denver?
It’s a city, but we’re never in a rush, never on time.
Are you from CO?
Since the age of 2 when she moved from Iran. Interestingly, Denver is the closest American city in topography and climate to Iran with the mountains and desert.
How would you describe the personality or “vibe” of Denver? Your neighborhood?
The vibe of Denver is a small town attitude with big city amenities. Faatma’s NE Park Hill neighborhood is super traditional and one of the oldest Denver neighborhoods without having had a “makeover.” Very quiet.
How would you describe your personality?
Eccentric introvert interested in community (just not at her house.)
Babs is our Park Hill expert. Reach out to her with any of your questions about the neighborhood!
Leave A Comment