“DISTINCTIVELY DIFFERENT” . . .

by Kate Falluca

“DISTINCTIVELY DIFFERENT”

. . . is the tagline for Kenosha’s new GALLERY 56.

On a sunny Saturday, I walk into a warm, inviting atmosphere full of soft music, scented oils, and the owner’s daughter’s faux finish on the walls which complement the stained concrete floor. In this urban industrial setting bustling with customers, I was greeted by friendly, smiling faces eager to answer my questions and direct me to my target.

Lynda Griffith (art admirer, appreciator, and collector) and her husband were living in Tampa and wanted to start their own business. Her husband grew up in a small town and they soon found the small town feeling they wanted in Racine. They came to visit, took a chance in buying an existing gallery/frame shop (Framers Corners) and decided to stay.

However, they didn’t want to be just another gallery in Racine. They looked for another location and liked Kenosha, especially down by the water. They saw an artist’s rendition of HARBOR PLACE and began their journey into K-Town. The original plan was to open in April of this year, but the building organization broke ground early and Lynda moved in sooner, holding a “soft opening” on January 6th, 2008.

Their aspirations to be more high-end quickly evolved around them. Since opening, Gallery 56 has been named within the Top 100 Galleries In The US twice by Décor Magazine and Best Frame Shop In Racine three times by Racine Journal Times.

Gallery 56 is also an authorized dealer of Dr. Seuss and has a wonderful display of his “Unorthodox Taxidermy Series” as well as the secret art he did when he got home from work at night.

Please stop by and see the original works of up-and-coming national and international artists (listed on the website www.gallery-56.com). Paintings, posters, jewelry, glass, lamps/light fixtures, pottery, potpourri, paper art, tables, photo frames, and leather goods are all on display. They also have a collection of wood sculptures, clocks, scarves, note cards, candles, mouse pads, business card holders authorized by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, and a framing room.

Local artists may apply to be juried in and will get a solo opening reception. During receptions the gallery will coordinate with charities, using a drawing to benefit a charity and awarding a framed piece of art to an attending patron.

Gallery 56 will hold an invitation only Open House on Friday, April 11th 5:00 to 9:00 pm, during which the Mayor and the Chamber of Commerce will hold a Ribbon Cutting. The Grand Opening for the public will be held Saturday, April 12th from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Contact Information:
Lynda Griffith
Gallery 56

115 56th Street, Unit 101
Kenosha, WI 53140
262-652-3416
info@gallery-56.com
Fine art • gifts • framing
Tuesday - Friday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Closed Sunday and Monday