Remembering the Sweet Lips Art Gallery

 

From Rock Lake to the Glacial Drumlin Trail to their historic downtown, there’s always something to do or see in Lake Mills Wisconsin. Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery contributed to the town's vibrant downtown business area by offering for sale more than 220 American Artists' handmade wares, art and funky gifts to both visitors and local residents. And after shopping you were able to sit down in their quaint Italian coffee bar for some delicious Italian gelato. Or if you needed a caffeine pick me up, there was also a full Italian coffee bar featuring Ancora coffee drinks. And for those who desired something sweet, Sweet Lips served Golosi Gelato Made in Oconomowoc, WI. Just some of the examples of their many different flavors included Pistachio, Nutella, Lemon,Cherry, Orange Dreamsicle, Laffy Taffy and Oreo Cookie.

Yumm!

This was the Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery's website. It with a sad heart that I learned they were deciding to close after spending five years at their 103 Church St. They contributed to the community via their support of  various town activities. For instance, at the 2009 Lake Mills Arts Festival they were Bronze Sponsors. In 2013 they made generous donations to the artist hospitality tent at the Lake Mills Main Street Program’s eighth annual Lake Mills Arts Festival which took place in Commons Park in downtown Lake Mills on Saturday, July 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Here's a nice review from a former employee.

Sweet Lips Art Gallery a wonderful place to work!

I loved my five year employment at Sweet Lips Art Gallery! Brynne Nodolf is an energetic, imaginative, and creative employer who not only spent endless hours training her staff but encouraged me as an artist, stager and bistro. She taught me people skills and self confidence which have helped me in every job I've had since. I would work with Brynne anywhere any time!

Our time at Sweet Lips was all too short

Whenever I was in the area seeing clients to discuss or help with their application development for Salesforce, I would stop by and spend a sweet half hour or so in their cozy nook of an Italian coffee bar with its plush seating and interesting reading materials. I had numerous discussions with several local folks about what I do as a Salesforce.com developer. The team I work with is experienced in all aspects of custom application development and integration on the Force.com platform. Many folks had not even heard of Salesforce, but once I explain how we first analyze the processes and activities that a company uses and then show the company where a Salesforce app development project could be implemented to automate and scale their business by tailoring the software to their specific needs, most folks are impressed. For those people who are contemplating getting Salesforce for their business or already have it, but don't feel they are utilizing its full potential, my typical spiel usually made them realize that they needed to get an experience Salesforce expert in to look over their needs. I actually picked up two new clients for my company at the Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery. It was a surprisingly great little place for some networking. I will miss it.

Even though the Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery no longer occupies 203 West Lake Street, the place is not empty. Ephraim Pottery Studio & Gallery now occupies the gallery's former space. Since 1996 Ephraim Pottery has been making collectible art pottery, and more recently tableware, in their rural Wisconsin studio where ten artists collaborate on all aspects of the artwork. Each piece of Ephraim pottery is made to order; hand thrown and sculpted, and finished with their in house-designed glazes. There is also a west coast branch of Ephraim Pottery in Cambria CA. If you collect art pottery, be sure to check out Ephraim's art pottery and tiles whicgh are created in limited editions. Ephraim Pottery marks the foot of each piece of pottery and the back of each tile to assure its authenticity. I have several of their Elemental Vases which happily do not require any additional liner. And all of their mugs, tumblers, and bowls are microwave and dishwasher safe.

Another gallery that is also located in the downtown area of Lake Mills is the Welkin Art Gallery & Studio. Like the former Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery, this gallery displays artists from Lake Mills, Mercer, Columbus, Jefferson, and other surrounding towns in both Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. The Welkin Art Gallery & Studio is located at 100 Water Street in Lake Mills.

Because of the incredibly vibrant art community in Lake Mills and the surrounding areas, I always enjoy visiting this area.

 

From the Lakeside Podium:

"The owner of Sweet Lips Art Gallery in Lake Mills, WI, is renowned for his unique passion for Batman. This is evident right from the gallery's entrance, where a curious silhouette of Batman walking away is displayed - a creative touch that often leaves visitors intrigued. His enthusiasm extends beyond mere admiration; he has amassed an impressive collection of Batman-themed shirts and is often seen sporting a Batman hoodie, his "suit". His Toyota, affectionately referred to as the "Batmobile," is a testament to his dedication, and his frequent quoting of Batman lines adds to his charm. The community holds him in high regard, affectionately considering him their own local superhero. Perhaps in a way, he truly embodies the spirit of Batman." Georgia Sands

 

 

Recently I discovered that the Sweet Lips Art Gallery domain was available, so I bought it with the goal of recreating as much of its original content as possible from archived pages. I did not want someone else to purchase the domain and re-purpose the site for something that had nothing in common with the original SweetLipsGallery.com website. I wanted to keep the spirit of the original website intact. SO although there wasn't very much information in the archived pages of the site, I hope this recreation will bring back fond memories and keep the spirit of the original website intact.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS PAGE CONTAINS SELECTIVE ARCHIVED CONTENT FROM THE ORIGINAL SITE as well as additional information.

Since the site will not be exactly as you remember it since I had no access to any of the images displaying their artisans' work, please be indulgent
Now let's take a nostalgic stroll back to the early days of the Sweet Lips Arts and Gifts store and website.

 

 

Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery proudly features over 200 American Artists' handmade wares, art and funky gifts. We also serve delicious Italian gelato and have a full Italian coffee bar featuring Ancora coffee drinks.

If you are in the Lake Mills Wisconsin area come visit the Sweet Lips Art Gallery. You will find original artwork, made in America, beautifully displayed in a newly renovated historical Lake Mills building. Much of the products they offer ares locally made. After perusing the store, snuggle into their seating area to enjoy a gourmet cup of coffee or gelato or both!

Sweet Lips in Lake Mills, Wisconsin offered original Handmade Art - Pottery,Glassware,Gourmet Coffee, and Wi-Fi at their Sweet Lips Art and Gifts Gallery in Lake Mills, WI.



The owners of Sweet Lips Gallery whole heartedly embraced the Lake Mills annual Halloween celebration.

 

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More Background on Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery

Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery was a vibrant part of Lake Mills, Wisconsin's downtown area, known for its diverse collection of handmade art and gifts from over 220 American artists. The gallery not only showcased unique art pieces but also offered a cozy Italian coffee bar and gelato shop, making it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. This article delves into the history, cultural significance, and community impact of Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery, providing insights into its operations, reviews, and the void it left upon its closure.

History and Background

Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery operated for five years at 103 Church Street in Lake Mills, Wisconsin. During its tenure, it became an integral part of the town's cultural scene, contributing to various local events and festivals. One notable example is its participation in the Lake Mills Arts Festival, where it served as a Bronze Sponsor in 2009 and made generous donations to the artist hospitality tent in 2013.

The gallery was housed in a newly renovated historical building, which added to its charm and appeal. It featured a wide range of handmade art, including pottery, glassware, and other unique gifts, many of which were locally crafted. This emphasis on local artisans helped foster a sense of community and supported the local economy.

Reviews and Employee Insights

Former employees and visitors alike have praised Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery for its welcoming atmosphere and creative environment. A former employee noted that working at Sweet Lips was a wonderful experience, crediting the owner, Brynne Nodolf, for being energetic, imaginative, and supportive. The employee highlighted the skills and confidence gained while working there, which have been invaluable in subsequent roles.

The gallery's Italian coffee bar and gelato shop were also popular spots for networking and casual meetings. A Salesforce developer mentioned using the gallery as a convenient location for discussing business opportunities with locals, even securing new clients there.

Press and Media Coverage

While specific press coverage of Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery is limited, its unique features and community involvement likely garnered local attention. The gallery's participation in town events and its distinctive Batman-themed decor, which included a silhouette at the entrance and the owner's collection of Batman-themed shirts, often sparked curiosity and interest among visitors.

Audience and Cultural Significance

Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery catered to a diverse audience, including tourists visiting Lake Mills for its scenic attractions like Rock Lake and the Glacial Drumlin Trail, as well as local residents who appreciated its unique offerings. The gallery played a significant role in enhancing the town's cultural landscape by promoting American art and supporting local artisans.

Its cultural significance extended beyond its art collection to its role as a community hub. The gallery's support for local events and its cozy atmosphere made it a beloved gathering place. The annual Halloween celebrations, which the owners enthusiastically supported, further underscored its commitment to community engagement.

Known For

Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery was known for several distinctive features:

  • Handmade Art and Gifts: It showcased over 220 American artists' handmade wares, offering a diverse selection of art and gifts.

  • Italian Coffee Bar and Gelato: The gallery featured a quaint Italian coffee bar serving Ancora coffee drinks and Golosi Gelato, with flavors like Pistachio, Nutella, and Lemon.

  • Community Involvement: It actively supported local events, such as the Lake Mills Arts Festival, and was a Bronze Sponsor in 2009.

  • Unique Decor: The gallery's entrance featured a silhouette of Batman, reflecting the owner's passion for the character.

Details and Insights

One of the gallery's most appealing aspects was its ability to blend art, culture, and community. Visitors could enjoy original artwork while savoring gourmet coffee or gelato in a cozy seating area. This blend of art and hospitality made Sweet Lips a standout in Lake Mills' vibrant downtown area.

The gallery's closure marked the end of an era for the community. However, its legacy lives on through the memories of those who visited and worked there. The space is now occupied by Ephraim Pottery Studio & Gallery, which continues the tradition of showcasing unique art pieces, albeit with a focus on collectible pottery.

Examples and Specifics

  • Art and Gifts: Sweet Lips featured a wide array of handmade items, including pottery, glassware, and funky gifts. These items were often locally crafted, supporting the local artisan community.

  • Gelato Flavors: The gallery offered a variety of gelato flavors, such as Orange Dreamsicle, Laffy Taffy, and Oreo Cookie, which were made by Golosi Gelato in Oconomowoc, WI.

  • Community Events: Sweet Lips was actively involved in local events, such as the Lake Mills Arts Festival, where it supported the artist hospitality tent in 2013.

Cultural and Social Significance

Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery played a significant role in fostering a sense of community in Lake Mills. By supporting local artisans and participating in town events, it helped create a vibrant cultural scene that attracted both locals and tourists. The gallery's closure was met with sadness, reflecting its importance to the community.

Its social significance extended beyond its role as a business; it was a gathering place where people could enjoy art, coffee, and conversation. The gallery's unique atmosphere and commitment to community engagement made it a cherished part of Lake Mills' social fabric.

 

Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery was more than just a place to buy art; it was a hub of community activity and cultural expression. Its legacy continues to be felt in Lake Mills, even after its closure. The gallery's impact on the local art scene and its role as a community gathering place underscore its enduring significance in the hearts of those who knew it.

In summary, Sweet Lips Art & Gift Gallery was a vibrant and integral part of Lake Mills' cultural landscape, known for its diverse art collection, cozy Italian coffee bar, and commitment to community events. Its closure marked the end of an era, but its memory lives on as a testament to the power of art and community engagement.

 

SweetLipsGallery.com