Meet Charity Lindop | Owner Black Orchid Curiosities/Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Charity Lindop and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Charity, how does your business help the community?

The Shout-Out List Is Long (and Worth It)

I’ll admit, the shout-out list is long—and growing. But I’ve always believed that every meeting is no chance encounter.

I try to take something meaningful from every relationship, no matter how brief or unusual.

Since opening our humble little shop three years ago, one thing has become crystal clear: the amount of raw, unfiltered talent tucked away in these mountains is astounding.

From artists like Odd Modd Works to the many other insanely gifted local creators we’ve had the honor of working with, it blows my mind that more directors, set designers, and film crews aren’t coming here and seeking us out.

This community—these mountains—they’re teeming with imagination, grit, and artistry. You just have to know where to look.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Why I Make Art

At a young age, I found myself confused by many things—especially death and religion. Losing my father early in life sent me into a tailspin of grief and uncertainty. I didn’t know what to do with all the feelings I was carrying.

Art became my lifeline—my outlet, my sanctuary, and in many ways, my savior.

My mother and stepfather always encouraged my creativity. They made sure I had the tools I needed to create, and in high school, I found joy in drawing—especially characters from Dungeons & Dragons. I was always making something.

But like many artists, I lost my fire in my twenties. The spark dimmed.

Still, I never stopped looking for inspiration. I had always admired Dave McKean—his haunting, layered cover work absolutely floored me. I wanted to make art that meant something, too.

I tried my hand at collage for a while, but it didn’t quite fit. Then one day, I stumbled across the work of San Francisco assemblage artist Diana Hoffman. Her creations shook me. Inspired me. Spoke to me in a way no artwork ever had.

That was the moment I felt the fire reignite.

I dove headfirst into assemblage art—and something clicked. I had found my medium, my voice.

My favorite works to create are my Día de los Muertos pieces. These shrine-like constructions are sacred to me. In them, I find comfort. I find memory. I find a way to honor the people we’ve lost and the love that endures beyond death.

They are my acceptance.
They are my tribute.
And they are why I continue to create.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When People Ask, “What’s There to Do in Cleveland, GA?”… I Laugh.

I consider that question kind of comical—because, well, have you been here?!
First off, this is Cleveland, Georgia… home of the iconic Cabbage Patch Kids! That alone should earn us a spot on the map.

But more importantly—my shop is here.
Black Orchid Curiosities lives inside the Mountain Laurel Antique Mall, where we’ve created a space for all things weird, wonderful, and artfully dark.
We also have a local art gallery inside the mall, and we’ve hosted everything from Art Shows to Creative Markets, Live Music, Fundraisers, and more.
It’s more than a shop—it’s a community hub for artists, musicians, and lovers of the unusual.

Hungry? Local favorites like Los Cerritos in Cleveland hit the spot, and Campfire GatherRound in Helen offers good food and a cozy vibe.

We’re just 25 minutes from Helen, GA, where something is always going on—from festivals to tubing down the river in a Bavarian-themed town.
And only 25 minutes in the other direction is Dahlonega—charming, historic, and home to Holy Mountain Tattoo, our tattoo shop, owned and operated by three of the most talented artists you’ll ever meet.

So yes, there’s plenty to do around here.
You just have to be curious enough to explore.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

The Shout-Out List Is Long (and Worth It)

I’ll admit, the shout-out list is long—and growing. But I’ve always believed that every meeting is no chance encounter.

I try to take something meaningful from every relationship, no matter how brief or unusual.

Since opening our humble little shop three years ago, one thing has become crystal clear: the amount of raw, unfiltered talent tucked away in these mountains is astounding.

From artists like Odd Modd Works to the many other insanely gifted local creators we’ve had the honor of working with, it blows my mind that more directors, set designers, and film crews aren’t coming here and seeking us out.

This community—these mountains—they’re teeming with imagination, grit, and artistry. You just have to know where to look.

Instagram: @blackorchidcuriosities

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AfD5yxZ7U/

Other: Tiktok: @blackorchidcuriosities