Lansing Art Gallery moves up the street — and above ground

FRIDAY, Feb. 4 — The light is shining on the Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center.

“We were subterranean before,” said Sarah Parker, coordinator of the gallery, which moved from its basement location on the south end of Washington Square to the north end this week.

 “The space is beautiful," Parker said. "It feels like a big improvement for us.” 

Parker noted that the natural light of the ground floor location in the old Knapp's Department Store  is a plus for displaying the artwork. The open space gives visitors, who must wear masks, the opportunity to enjoy the art while still being safely distanced from each other.  She said the hope is that the gallery will see more traffic at this location.

The art gallery has moved around a lot since its establishment back in 1965, when it started in eight rooms in the former Lansing Business University on Ionia Street.  This is its sixth location.

Visitors can  see the work of artist Andrew Rieder until March 26, with an inaugural reception scheduled for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday.  Art is for sale in the retail gallery. 

The gallery has other activities this month, such as how to make art at home with materials that can be picked up at the gallery, as well as virtual at-home activities.  

“I invite you to visit, bring a guest and introduce a newcomer to our organization,” said executive director Barb Whitney, in an online statement posted to the gallery’s website. “We’ll be sure to warmly welcome you both!” 

The Knapp's Centre is at 300 S. Washington Square, Suite 100. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, except for holiday weekends.