When Hilary and Eric Thompson purchased their charming farmhouse in Fairview a year ago, they never imagined the big red barn out back would become a hub for community learning. Initially, the barn was filled with construction materials, tools, and debris, but Eric, a self-taught artist, was the first to see its potential. He carved out a section for his personal gallery and studio, where he continues to create his renowned artwork, which has been featured in publications like “American Art Collector” and “Southwest Art.”

While Eric pursued his art, Hilary, a certified mental health coach specializing in trauma recovery, saw a greater purpose for the remaining space. After realizing there were few places in Sanpete County that could accommodate her “Rooted and Resilient” life-coaching and coping skills classes, she decided to transform the barn into a community education space.

A Christ-centered community space

The HARTT Barn (an acronym for “Healing, Art, Resilience, Teaching, and Transformation”) is now a “Christ-centered, privately-owned community education space.” The barn has already begun hosting a wide variety of classes, from art and yoga to emergency preparedness and life skills. Classes are designed to empower and uplift participants, focusing on everything from health and fitness to career preparation, gardening, and even HAM radio communication.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was presided over by Shari Anderson from the Sanpete County Chamber of Commerce, with remarks from Mike McKay, head of Fairview’s planning committee. The event was a joyous gathering, featuring a buffet of locally made artisan breads, homemade soup, fresh salads, and cookies, along with a raffle and an opportunity to meet the mentors who will be teaching classes.

Classes and programs now open for registration

The HARTT Barn will be offering classes four days a week. The spring session is set to begin in late January and will run through May 19, covering topics such as watercolor painting, knitting, guitar, fitness, and more. Health and fitness classes will continue year-round with breaks for major holidays. Given the intimate class sizes, early registration is encouraged. A small, non-refundable fee is required to secure a spot.

Hilary Thompson’s mission is clear: to provide a welcoming space where members of the community can learn, grow, and find support. The barn is also available for private rentals for workshops, events, and meetings — a much-needed resource in Fairview, where community spaces are limited.

For more information on classes, registration, or to rent space, you can visit the HARTT Barn website at https://harttcoaching.com/hartt-barn, join the Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/theharttbarn, or call/text Hilary at (385) 355-3929.

With its unique blend of art, healing, and community focus, the HARTT Barn is set to become a beloved fixture in Fairview, helping residents connect, learn, and grow together.