Biz Buzz shares business tidbits from the tri-states. In addition to this update from Galena, Ill., we will share additional developments in Tuesday’s edition.
GALENA, Ill. — A new store has opened in Galena with an eclectic selection of local artwork and other vintage items. The Alley Shop recently opened at 201 Hill St.
in the storefront formerly filled by Galena Spoon Co. The store offers a variety of vintage home goods as well as a collection of artwork from longtime local artist Zelma Wilson-Clark. “I opened the shop for two reasons: to start sharing Zelma’s art with others again and to part with some of the other little treasures I’ve collected over the years and no longer need,” said store owner Maria Stolze-Epple.
Wilson-Clark was a local painter known for her portraits, landscapes and still-life pieces that highlighted the beauty of everyday life. Stolze-Epple met Wilson-Clark and her husband, Richard, as a child. She worked for the couple for several years and eventually became something of a daughter figure to whom the wife and husband left most of their belongings after their deaths.
Those belongings included many of Zelma’s art pieces, as well as pieces of cabinetry and other woodworking crafted by Richard. Stolze-Epple went years without parting from the items before deciding to open a storefront to share Zelma’s art and a select few pieces of Richard’s woodworking. “The fun part for me is being able to talk about (Zelma and Richard) again,” she said.
“I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how many people are happy to stand there and talk with me about them and the work they’ve left behind.” The shop also offers a variety of antique home goods such as lamps, dishes, glassware and decor. One corner of the store is set up with displays of vintage clothing and jewelry as well as a small men’s section.
Many of the items are things Stolze-Epple collected over the years shopping in small stores and boutiques across the country. Now retired, she’s decided to part with some of those items in an attempt to downsize. “I’ve always loved shopping in little eccentric shops and finding different treasures, but you do that long enough and you end up with too much,” she said.
“I’m looking to sell some of those excess items.” The Alley Shop is usually open Fridays and Saturdays, although the store will be closed through Aug. 30 to accommodate a trip.
Additional information about the store can be found online at tinyurl.com/alleyshop ..
