Seven Local Artists Relaunch Unique Boutique After 15 Years

Seven local artists showcased their work at the Unique Boutique in Jerene Kruse's Art Studio on Thursday, December 10.   From 1 to 7 p.m., people perused through different tables displaying pottery, glass fusing, silverware jewelry, birdhouses, aprons, watercolor painting and food items.   

Owner of the studio Jerene Kruse said she is excited to restart this event.

"We used to have one in the Albion area back in the 90s," said Kruse. Several of us got too old to do this or we went back to work full-time.  We haven't had anything like this for 15 years. Last year was our first one. It was successful, so we decided to try it again this year."

Kruse, a retired art teacher, started her studio to do pottery and glass fusing.

"I always wanted to do something myself beside teaching art, so we put in a studio," said Kruse.

Not only does she create her own art pieces, but now she is starting to teach classes and workshops in her studio.  Last summer Kruse taught a three-day kids camp in partnership with the Albion Area Arts Council.

"It was really successful.  I had 11 kids come out from fourth through seventh.  They had a great time," Kruse said.

Kruse also mentioned that she will be continuing to hold different classes, like wine and painting, through the winter season.