A quant new gallery and artisan gift shop called Parables has opened at 1027 Elmwood Avenue. Owner/operator Glenn Kroetsch has painstakingly converted a large apartment into a space that is multi-functional depending on the activities within. Glenn plans on hosting an artist group show from April 6 to May 28. After that, there will be a meet and greet reception on May 6, from 6pm to 9pm. Featured artists include Jill Gustafson, Glunz, David Mathemy, Jane Marinsky, Teresa Alessandra, Debra Orrange, and Paul Chlebowski.
Glenn’s gallery is super manageable, and a surprisingly pleasant space considering the smallish size. He blocked out all of the windows in the gallery, leaving plenty of room to hang exhibits and shows. A second room is where the craftier side of the operation is located. Then there’s a third room that acts as more of a retail space. Some of Glenn’s own original works have been transferred onto t-shirts. Other artisanal products line the shelves, giving the room a nice retail appeal.
Glenn has pulled off something that I have been tirelessly preaching for years. More residential structures along Elmwood need to be transitioned into commercial spaces on the first floor (or even both floors in possible). It might be tough complying with fire codes, etc., but each of these conversions adds density and more urban dynamics to the street. Plus, once the storefront is finished, it’s good to go for years to come. Building owners can even command more rent for commercial spaces, which means that the investments will pay off in the end. I also understand that the Elmwood Village Association has access to help fund these types of conversions.
At this point, there are not enough commercial spaces available for entrepreneurs that are looking to be on the Elmwood. It’s not a bad problem to have, but at the same time, there is no room for growth unless additional house owners follow Glenn’s lead. Elmwood will thrive more and more, every time a residential structure is repurposed. Parables Gallery & Gifts landed on Elmwood because Glenn had a vision. That vision will bring more artists onto the street, and will help to bridge the commercial gaps that are currently found along the street. Thanks to Glenn and his initiative, Elmwood is now an even more walkable street.
Parables Gallery & Gifts is filled with art and craft works, including original acrylic paintings and photography.
To learn more about Glenn’s gallery and artist gift shop, click here.
Parables Gallery & Gifts | 1027 Elmwood Avenue | Buffalo NY | Facebook