Saturday, February 3rd, was Downtown Waukesha’s 45th Art Crawl.
As the National Weather Service posted warnings to stay inside and the mercury dropped to well below freezing, I wasn’t expecting a huge turn-out for the event.
Who in their right mind would wander the streets of Downtown in frigid temperatures, trying to survive the threat of frozen toes and frostbite, just to experience an Art Crawl?
A lot of people.
As a matter of fact, I was surprised at how many folks braved the piercing winds and chilling temperatures to come down and enjoy the first Crawl of 2007. I wouldn’t go as far as to say it was overly busy, but more people came out than I expected.
And to those loyal Art Crawlers, who chose to bundle up and endure the elements, goes a hearty “thank you” from all of the merchants Downtown. As a matter of fact, I think all of you deserve a medal of courage for Crawling that night.
And to those of you who didn’t come down?
You missed out.
You missed the grand opening of the new Cork Art House at 400 W. Main. You also missed a very special event called “Stillwaters” that took place in the old KM Appliance building at 375 W. Main. This event showcased artwork by cancer survivors.
Sprizzo Gallery Café, The House of Guinness, and Neighbor’s Bistro all had live music. River’s End Gallery held an artists reception and The Almont Gallery hosted the work of 16 different artists.
The Goff House Gallery, the James Store Gallery, the Potter’s Shop, Studio Goggio, Art Links 333, and Ashton Arts, all hosted a variety of artists as well.
On the outskirts of Main you could also find a plethora of galleries such as the Allison Art House, Studio for Glass, See More Art, Foxies Fine Art, the Donna Lexa, and the All Writers Workshop.
Besides galleries, downtown is home to a variety of great places to get a cup of coffee, sandwiches, desserts and such. The Steaming Cup, Mia’s Italian Cuisine, Rochester Deli, and the Java Connection to name a few.
Stay with me- I’m not done yet. I still haven’t told you about all the other things you missed.
Martha Merrell’s Books, Fox Riverwalk Antique Mall, Art and Framing 1-2-3, Plowshare, The Celtic Gypsey, Urban Abode, Hair I Am, Katydids, Sadie Bryner Home Décor, Cuddles Hallmark, Amy Lynn’s Fine Chocolates, the Model Railroad Club, and Hara, the brand new wellness center over on St. Paul Avenue across from Waukesha State Bank.
There are many more excellent businesses down here, these are some of the few featured in the Art Crawl.
Why am I taking the time to list all of these by name? Because the recent hub-bub surrounding store closings in the downtown has left many folks thinking things are dying out down here.
On the contrary, things couldn’t be better. And as the popularity of this historic gem continues to grow, I think you will be surprised at what the future is going to bring to Downtown Waukesha.
And to those of you who missed it this time, you can make it up this spring during the May 5th Art Crawl. You won’t be getting a medal though.
Actually, come down anytime you want. You’re always welcome.
