There are grand openings, and then there are experiences. Today, Appalachian Highlands Farmers Magazine had the honor of attending one of those experiences. The relocation Grand Opening celebration for Dancing Rabbit, and trust me—Bristol has just gained a serious gem.
Entering their new brick-and-mortar location at 1502 Southside Avenue in Bristol, TN, feels less like walking into a store and more like stepping into the shared imagination of its owners, Anne and Anthony Shell. While locals might recognize the name from their popular four-year run at Building 9 in the Tri-Cities Flea Market, this new space is a whole new ballgame. It is a “Unique Boutique” in every sense of the word—eclectic, vibrant, and bursting with creativity.
From the Booth to the Brick-and-Mortar, Dancing Rabbit Evolves
“We started in 2022… we always knew we wanted to start a creativity-based business together,” Anthony told me amid the opening’s buzz.” Since then, what began as a small booth for custom-painted frames has evolved into a cultural hub.
When asked about the move from Bluff City, Anne’s reasoning was touching and centered on community. “We wanted to be closer to Bristol,” she explained. “We are from Bristol and wanted to connect with our local community.” Based on the steady stream of visitors to the shop today, that connection is already strong.
A Master of Her Craft: Anne Shell’s Art
While fascinating curios fill the shop, the true heartbeat of Dancing Rabbit is Anne Shell herself. The depth of her artistic background impressed me. After all, this isn’t just a hobbyist shop; Anne comes from a “long lineage of artists” and has been creating since she was old enough to hold a brush.
Her talent is indisputable. She casually mentioned that she has shown her work internationally, including in New Zealand and across the United States. Seeing her work up close, you understand why. Her pieces display refined skill and a soulful quality that elevate the entire shop. It’s a privilege to have an artist of this caliber setting up a permanent shop window in our own backyard.
Dancing Rabbit: A Curator’s Paradise
Toys, Tins, and Ducks? Beyond fine art, the shop is a treasure trove for pop culture enthusiasts and collectors. Anthony and Anne have an incredible eye for sourcing unique items you simply cannot find at big-box stores.
I was particularly taken with the Mr. & Mrs. Tin collection. Anthony’s fondness for these is contagious. These aren’t cheap plastic knockoffs; they are Belgian-designed, 1950s-inspired wind-up toys in which “each piece of tin is hand-pressed, hand-cut,” according to Anthony. With runs limited to just 2,000 pieces, they are genuine artisanal works.
Nearby, the shelves are also lined with TUBBZ—the hilarious, highly detailed cosplaying ducks from the UK—and the cult-favorite Furrybones figurines by a California artist.
However, I am most looking forward to what’s coming next. The Shells revealed they are about to become the exclusive local carrier for “9 to 5 Warriors,” an indie toy line by an artist named Brandon that channels pure 90s after-school cartoon nostalgia. “They’re like designer art action figures,” Anne promised.
The Future is Bright
As I looked around the shop, packed with artistic toys (“Each one’s a little work of art in your hand,” Anthony noted) and happy customers, I couldn’t help but joke that they would need more room soon. Anne didn’t miss a beat: “Eventually, State Street is next.”
If today was any indication, that goal is well within reach.
Dancing Rabbit is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Do yourself a favor: say hello to Anne and Anthony, buy a piece of art, and allow a little creativity into your life.
Located at 1502 Southside Avenue, Bristol, TN. Follow their blog at dancing-rabbit.com for updates on the incoming “9 to 5 Warriors” line.
