Terry Tracy and Judith Hetem are bringing the Clarkston area a venue for original art. The two have opened La Petite Galerie in the 64 South Main building.
‘This has been a vision Judy and I have about Clarkston,? Tracy said. ‘It is such a unique, artistic village. There are so many artist here and we want to give them a place to show their work.?
The duo has big plans for the gallery. In addition to showcasing local artists monthly, they are looking to hold charity events at the gallery.
Tracy has been an artist for life. She works in watercolors to reveal the details of animals and nature. Hetern has been taking photographs since receiving a camera as an anniversary gift.
‘People are so busy in their lives that this is my way of getting them to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life,? Tracy said.
The two have also been organizing an artists club which meets the third Thursday of each month. The group has about 25 artists and meets at the Clarkston Christian Association building on Sashabaw.
‘We have a lot of artists coming to the meeting,? Hetem said. ‘It is really fun to have all the artists coming together. It is a wonderful opportunity.?
While the two admit there is not a whole lot of room in the gallery, they hope it will encourage others.
‘We hope this is something to draw people into Clarkston. It is a fun showcase of people’s work,? Hetem said. ‘Hopefully this will encourage other people to open up galleries in downtown. We also hope the gallery draws more people to show downtown.?
The gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Anyone interested in showcasing their work at the gallery or joining the artists group can call them at (248) 625-2511.
‘Showcasing art is important to me. Since the schools cut back their art program my motto has been ‘Keep art alive.? I just hope the gallery draws people and they enjoy the work,? Tracy said.