Spend the Day with Me: Art Galleries in Kenosha

I don’t know what it is about Springtime that makes me want to look at art. But I can’t think of a better time to gaze upon it. So, join me on my art-filled day in Kenosha!

So, whether you’re a local, traveling, or looking for a unique date night, you don’t have to go far to see amazing works of art. From the ever-rotating sculptures along the harbor or multiple art galleries, it’s easy to get connected and inspired by art right here in Kenosha! And all without the headache of costly parking and big city crowds, talk about a win-win!

Stop One: Pollard Gallery

My first stop was Pollard Gallery, right next door to the beautiful Rhode Center for the Arts. It’s run by volunteer artists, so there’s a high probability that the person greeting you is the same one who created the piece you’re admiring on the wall. I loved learning that 90% of every sale goes directly back to the artist. And the other 10% goes to the Rhode/Pollard to keep both amazing places running. I enjoyed soaking in all the different styles of art, they even had jewelry (love the earrings I bought), cool handcrafted flowers, and even a fun decorated chair! Jennifer and Melissa were so helpful, and I loved seeing their own creations. It was the perfect start!

Stop Two: Lemon Street Gallery

Next, I headed over to Lemon Street Gallery, and I had a delightful chat with Shelby Nesmith (shown on top), the Executive Director, and felt like I was talking to a friend. Everything here felt so approachable, and I loved that all the artists live within a one-hour radius. Since the exhibits change frequently, I’ve already promised myself a return trip to see what’s new.

Stop Three: Sculpture Walk – HarborPark

There’s something about springtime that makes me want to get outside and really see the world. Especially when the grass is green again, and all the snow has melted (finally)! A stroll along the Sculpture Walk – HarborPark is basically an outdoor gallery experience. This walk is a Kenosha gem I have often taken for granted, but today I decided to slow down and really look and appreciate the sculptures against the lake.

Stop Four: Kenosha Public Museum

If you head upstairs at the Kenosha Public Museum, you’ll find a quiet, beautiful gallery space. They feature nationally recognized names right alongside our local talent. They even showcase student work, which reminded me of when my son’s artwork was featured here a few years ago. It’s always worth a trip upstairs whenever I go to the museum.

Stop Five: Anderson Arts Center

My final stop was the Anderson Arts Center, and honestly, the building itself is a masterpiece. I was captivated by the large, beautiful windows that let the sunlight pour in and illuminate the artwork and showed Lake Michigan shimmering in the background. It was incredibly relaxing; I felt like I was soaking in the watercolor exhibit as much as the view. There’s even a gift shop for a little treasure-hunting!

Why These Spaces Stayed with Me

Looking back on my day, three things made this day feel so special:

• The Heart: From the volunteers to the artists, the passion was palpable. No one was pretentious; everyone, including the art, was just…inviting. I felt like I belonged there.
• The Lake: It was the “chef’s kiss” of the day. Every gallery was close to beautiful Lake Michigan, highlighting beauty in both the arts and nature.
• The Community: Every gallery I visited featured local artists, usually within a 1-hour radius of Kenosha. Not only was the art local, but every gallery felt inclusive, wanting me to feel welcomed and part of the community.

I’m already looking forward to my next day of art! For even more ways to check out art right here in Kenosha, check out Visit Kenosha’s socials and website.