In this blog we often talk about Door County’s restaurants, attractions, parks, hiking trails and the wonders of the Lake Michigan shoreline. This time we are going to tap into the creative side of the Peninsula because it is the perfect destination for art lovers. Door County is home to artists, writers, musicians, poets and the like. As you plan your Door County getaway, here are a few galleries we think you would enjoy. And we’ll start with one we put at the top of our list ever time…
Edgewood Orchard Galleries
If you think you’re not in the market for art, don’t let that stop you from visiting Edgewood Orchard Galleries. It’s beautiful, inside and out. We can say the same thing about the owners Nell and J.R. Jarosh! They have created delightful and inspiring spaces. Inside, a carefully curated collection of artists who you may happen to meet during one of the galleries special artist events.
We are inspired by Ginnie Cappaert’s landscapes, Judi Ekholm’s outdoor paintings, George Shipperley’s birch trees, and Tal Walton’s barns, to name a few! And we often leave wearing a piece of Rach B Jewelry. Our wish list of the art we dream to have in our home is a long one!
What really makes this destination stand out, is the outdoor gallery space. Follow a winding trail through the trees and J.R.’s lovely landscaping. Sculptures of all shapes and sizes line the way. Some of them are interactive. And all of them unique. The artwork is stunning and the vibe is serene. And we aren’t the only ones charmed by this space. Visitors always give it high marks, and in 2023, The Saturday Evening Post ranked Edgewood as one of “America’s Most Stunning Outdoor Galleries.”
Fine Line Designs Gallery
Art lover friends of ours encouraged us to check out Fine Line Designs Gallery in Ephraim. We stopped in recently after a quick sip at Sip! It’s a lovely garden space and indoor gallery filled with original and beautiful artwork. Cool fact: the gallery is in what was originally a 1950’s chicken coop!
Fine Line features artists who specialize in paintings, glass, jewelry, wood furnishings and ceramics. Don’t miss the two acres of outdoor garden space featuring sculptures in a wide variety of metals.
Woodwalk Gallery
We were delighted the moment we walked up to Woodwalk Gallery in Egg Harbor. Friends encouraged us to visit after attending a wedding at the site. The owner was warm and welcoming and gave us a brief overiew of the gallery. It’s an old dairy barn from the 1900’s that previous owners converted into a gallery in 2007. Besides art exhibitions and weddings, Woodwalk also hosts dinners and concerts.
Featuring many midwestern artists, the works range from portraits and pottery to fiber arts and woodwork. Our daugher was drawn to the jewelry. We were drawn to the exhibit featuring a friend in Appleton. (Hi Patt Huss!) Much of the art is in the main part of the barn but there are other areas to explore, including a second floor loft. The space is colorful and airy and we will return!
Clay Bay Pottery
Head north for this next gallery gem! Clay Bay Pottery is located right on highway 42 on the south end of Ellison Bay. (If you head down the hill into town you’ve gone too far.) Inside you’ll find a unique collection of pottery that captures the essence of life in “the door.” From charming oil bottles and beautiful bowls to graceful vases and functional, yet whimsical mugs.. you’ll find something for everyone here.
In 2024, Clay Bay Pottery is in its 48th year and is a favorite among the locals. Stop in for a wedding gift, a keepsake for the home, or a new ornament for the tree to remember your stay in Door County.
Of course, this is just a fraction of the whole art scene in Door County. These are some of our favorites, however we are always looking for more places to explore! Is Door County on your future getaway plans? Learn more about the art scene here, and if you are looking for a place to stay, click here for a list of the luxury rentals available through Northern Door Vacations.
