Lansing Art Gallery seeking public input as it restructures

THURSDAY, Sept.19 — The board of the Lansing Art Gallery is seeking pubic input as it looks for ways to reopen after closing for the month because of revenue problems.

"If members of the community would like to participate in a focus group and share ideas for the future of the gallery, or get involved by volunteering, we welcome you to join us: 5:30 PM on Thursday, September 26th at the Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center: 300 S Washington Square Suite 100, Lansing," board President Rachel Beatty said in a news release.

City Pulse reported last week that the gallery closed after the executive director, Michelle Carlson, resigned and most of its staff was laid off.

"Over the past year, " Beatty said, "there has been a decrease in donations, sponsorships, grants, and attendance that has heavily impacted the gallery’s financials. Not only has there been a decrease in funding, but many of our artists have expressed a decrease in sales at other galleries and storefronts they partner with.

"The Board's decision to lay off staff and take a temporary pause on all operations provided substantial cuts in the budget," Beatty continued. "This will allow the board to thoughtfully reflect on the mission, engage with our artists and community, and strategically develop a succession plan that fits the needs of all constituents of the Lansing Art Gallery, whether that be new retail hours, events, private space rentals, studio spaces, etc.

"Moving forward, the Board of Directors plans to have the gallery operate as a volunteer coop that consists of board members, trusted members, and artists."