ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – A group of artists in Escanaba have found a new home for their work, following the Ludington Street fire in January.
The blaze that killed one man and destroyed two downtown businesses also caused severe smoke damage to the neighboring buildings, including the building that housed the East Ludington Gallery.
“When we first got into the building, the damage was just overwhelming,” said East Ludington Gallery Co-op President Sandy Wilson. “Each artist had to come in and get their things out.”
With the building set to be torn down and most of the art ruined, the East Ludington Gallery artists were left to search for a new place to display their work.
“It went fairly quickly,” Wilson said. “We started looking, found the perfect spot, and everything fell into place. Our new landlord wants to remain anonymous, but he made it happen.”
The East Ludington Gallery artists are excited to announce that they are moving into the recently closed Morrison Shop building just across the street. Wilson says it is an ideal location for a gallery.
“It’s a beautiful spot,” she said. “It’s bright, it’s open. Two huge windows. You can help more customers at one time. There are so many positive things. We loved our building and Craig and Patty Woerpel were wonderful landlords. It’s bittersweet because we’d been there since 2009, but we’re ready to move on and start a new business over here.”
Wilson says the artists have been blown away by the public’s support in the weeks following the fire.
“The community has helped so much, not only with being loyal customers since 1981 but with the fundraiser at The Bonifas,” she said. “We’ve been here for so long that we’re not ready to give up, so we’re excited for this opportunity.”
The East Ludington Gallery artists hope to open the gallery by May 1. The Bonifas Arts Center will host an exhibit of their art beginning April 4.
To keep up with the East Ludington Gallery as the artists transition to their new location, follow the East Ludington Gallery Facebook page.
