WAUPACA COUNTY POST

July 15, 2004

Originals Celebrates Fifth Anniversary

Originals etc. Gallery and Studio will celebrate five years in business and its new look after refurbishing and adding space in the lower level from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 17.

The gallery, located at 204 N. Main St., downtown Waupaca, features artwork of more than 40 local and regional artists. Refreshments will be served and a one-day drawing for artwork and gift certificates will be held.

Prizes in the drawing include artwork by David DeBolt, Laurel Geyer and Fred Schmolesky; jewelry by Theresa J.K. Drinka and Sam Vierck; note cards by Carolyn Rosenberger; and four gift certificates ranging from $10 to $50.

David and Kathy DeBolt opened the gallery in May 1999. About 20 local artists took a chance on this venture and brought in their work on consignment with the DeBolts. The number of artists has since grown to more than 40 and the media represented includes acrylics, baskets, ceramic cats, fiber art, hand-painted glassware, ink house portraits, jewelry, oils, pastels, photography, pottery, sculpture, stained glass, watercolors and wood carvings.

Over the past five years, local artists Julie Bauknecht, Joan Cason, David DeBolt, Theresa J.K. Drinka, Sharon Radley, Carolyn Rosenberger, Doris Weed and Brenda Wenberg have been the top-selling artists.

A popular feature in the gallery are month-long exhibits of works by artists, including a personal appearance day when visitors to the gallery and the featured artist can meet and discuss the artwork.

Current and upcoming exhibits are Doris Weed in July, Theresa J.K. Drinka in August, Carolyn Rosenberger in September, Marie App in October, Joyce Moon in November and Russ Lowe in December.

In addition, the gallery offers adult art classes taught by David DeBolt.

"I’m always surprised at the high number of artists, emerging artists and art-interested people in Waupaca," DeBolt said. "We have way more than the national average per capita."

The 204 N. Main St. address has a long history of art-related businesses. From 1946 to 1977 it was home to Fletcher’s Jewelry, from 1978 to 1989 Russell Lowe operated his commercial art business in the building, and architect Terry Martin was the tenant prior to the opening of Originals.

"I guess some places bring out the creativity in us all," DeBolt said.

Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Call (715) 256-9559 for more information.