LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center announced they would be closing its doors after 60 years at the end of April.
A statement on their website reads:
“It is with a heavy heart that the Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center will be closing, effective at the end of April. We understand that this news will come as a significant shock to many in the arts community.”
Rachel Beatty, President of the Board of Directors, said that the gallery took a hit in attendance and funding after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Since then we have had just a little decrease in foot traffic. However, we also had a decrease in sponsors, grants, just typical funding…Unfortunately, we weren’t able to keep up with basic funds or committed financials,” she said.
Last September, the gallery sent out a notice that read:
“The Board of Directors of the Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center have suspended operations and have closed the facility to the public until the end of September. During this time, Board Members will continue to reevaluate financials, work with stakeholders in the community, and restructure educational programs and exhibits.”
During this time, the gallery brought in around 20 volunteers who stepped up to help the organization become more “volunteer operational,” according to Beatty.
“With volunteers, we were able to develop a marketing plan moving forward of how we would like to pivot our programs and educational resources,” Beatty said.
But to Beatty, this was more than just an art gallery. Rachel lost her father and her best friend unexpectedly and turned to art to try and heal.
“It was a really hard time after losing my father and my best friend in high school. Being able to provide and give back to this organization that really helped me through that time was special to me,” she said.
She said that putting her emotions into her artwork and having it showcased, gave her a sense of clarity.
Another local artist, Edward White, also used art as an avenue to escape.
“Two to three years ago, I had a really bad summer and fall mentally. And my therapist encouraged me to try to explore avenues that brought me reward in life,” White said.
That avenue was art, but now with the gallery closing, Edward doesn’t know if he’ll be able to get another chance at showcasing his art.
Although the gallery is closing at the end of April, there will be a final reception on Thursday April 3 from 5-8 pm. The organization is calling it a celebration, rather than a funeral.
“Please come dressed in your best and most vibrant apparel, for a fun evening of sharing stories and memories about the Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center over the past 60 years,” according to a statement on their website.
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