When it comes to supporting the economy, buying local art might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but an art gallery in downtown Traverse City is hoping more people will consider the idea.
TRAVERSE CITY -- For Cathleen and Chuck Ayer it's a passion for art that led them to open the Evergreen Gallery in downtown Traverse City.
"It's a calling. We just felt called to go into the business and to support the community in this way," says owner of Evergreen Gallery, Kathleen Ayer.
The Ayers who are artists themselves, Chuck does photography and Cathleen paints, started the business in October 2005.
It soon grew to feature work from more than 65 Michigan artists. More than 50 of those artists are from right here in northern Michigan.
"We have pottery, we have art glass, paintings, photography, woodwork, jewelry, just a whole range of art....We do have a few manufactured pieces of jewelry that are inspirational pieces of jewelry," says Ayer.
It's this variety from glassware to paintings, even hand sculpted bowls all locally made, and something the Ayers hope creates a functional purpose.
"We want to support the arts in Michigan. Also, one of our goals is to provide functional affordable art for the everyday family and also inspirational art," says Ayer.
Ayer says it's been tough to try and achieve this goal with the sluggish economy, but she says there is a silver lining and some positive news.
"Art galleries have really been hit hard with the downturn in the economy. Although we have seen in the last few months a leveling off and even in July through September we're up a little from last year. So, we're pretty optimistic that things are turning around," says Ayer.
Evergreen Gallery is located on East Front Street in downtown Traverse City.
The gallery is always accepting new art, so if you would like to feature your artwork there, contact Cathleen and Chuck Ayer at: (231)-929-9522. For a direct link to the gallery website check out: http://www.evergreengallerytc.com/
