My wife and I were walking down Broadway towards Abeel on Sunday afternoon, and stopped to read a sign on the sidewalk. It invited us to get off the frigid street and enter a courtyard that we have walked right past a hundred times.

We took the sign’s prompt — “don’t be shy” — and entered a shady courtyard. It was decorated with a stone bench, ceramic objects, plants and hanging white holiday lights. I imagined it would be cool on a hot summer day. Getting up to the door, we saw that inside, lights were on. The store was open and my wife entered first. I stayed outside, taking in the beautiful broad windows, decorated with art. Seeing through, I admired a well-lit interior, fronted by many large healthy green plants.

My wife was already talking to Sean Wands, who with Jesse Pankenham is a Folk House Collective partner, and graphic designer. He was showing her a variety of objects from regional artists, but I was having an unguided “wow moment.” From the door, I was drawn to a large glowing painting that reminded me at first of Picasso’s “Blue Nude.” It was neither blue — it was quite the opposite in color — nor was it a Picasso. It was as vibrant as early sun; the subject, a couple dancing around a fire, was edging passion toward pagan. It was vibrant and dynamic, suggesting even more power in reserve. I felt as though I could enter the scene or that its dancers might jump off the wall to join me.

The wild painting was one of seven from the featured artist named Rilo who is also known as Riley Miller. He comes from California and is living in Mexico. His works start at $500 and are ready to hang.

On my second visit, I met Jesse, who explained Folk House’s collective aspect. Other local artists are featured. Eric Archer paints on reclaimed carved wood panels. Keith McMenamy uses acrylic paint with a technique employing metallic bits beneath the surface that develop over time. Caitlin Lightfoot hand-crafts contemporary jewelry from Hudson River stones. I have named a few. Their resident artist space will be available soon offering a place to work and present for sale. Folk House Collective. I get it.

Folk House Collective, 75B Broadway, has a creative vibe that incorporates the best of Mexico City, Brooklyn and Kingston. It reminded me of the time in a previous century when my friends and I casually enjoyed art, at MoMA, Frick and the Met. All the New York museums were free and we had time to enjoy. Art is attractive and accessible here.