Written by Miriam Pickens

It was graduation week at Michigan Tech, and as I entered the gallery, a family wearing the black and gold Husky apparel was visiting as well.

“It’s been different from other years,” Babette told me. “But we’ve stayed flexible, made adjustments, and we’re doing well.”

Babette Jokela is the proprietor of this incredible art space, the Gallery on 5th Street in Calumet.

It was really nice to visit with Babette and see the new work that so many have produced during these unusual times, as the local artists have been very productive over the last year. I think it’s a combination of having a lot of time at home, and developing a deep appreciation of the beauty we have around us every day in the Upper Peninsula, but I guess it’s different for everybody.

Walking into the galley again was like going to a family reunion. There is a whimsical collection of new animal sculptures by Joyce Koskenmaki, and a large painting titled “Hogsback Mountain” by Mike Ramos which is absolutely stunning. Works by Margot McCafferty-Rudd, Jack Oyler, and Susan Robinson — all longtime residents who have moved away — reminded me of old friendships. Prints and ceramics by Ladislav and Jana Hanka and handcrafted furniture by Pat Reagan continue to impress, and Paige Wiard, who passed the Gallery to Babette, has intricate beadwork for sale. Clyde Mikkola continues to make social statements with his large piece called “Where’s the Problem?” which you can view from the outside window.

Flying Anvil Designs is by Julie Jerman-Melka, a new Calumet artist at the gallery. She creates jewelry with the smoothed Lake Superior basalt pebbles and hand-hammered and forged silver. Earth Creations Pottery by Pat Black of Iron River is an interesting collection of carved vases with copper, birch bark, shells, and other natural elements incorporated into the colorful surface designs. There is a large, colorful collection of Betsy Buckner bear paintings in oil, and a cool new collection of jewelry by Amy Forsell.  

First Fridays will start in June this year, but the Gallery on 5th has a featured artist each month. Landscapes in Linocut print and pastels by Terry Dalton will be featured in May. Babette is excited about her work.

“Color, texture, and vivid beauty—her style captures your eyes and heart!”

During the year while many venues were struggling, the Gallery on 5th has managed to stay active by being flexible and creative. Facebook and Instagram were useful for connecting with customers, but Babette went one step further by creating a true “window shopping” experience. Switching around the window displays frequently allowed customers to select items for purchase without even going inside. A new website will be ready soon as well. The gallery managed to stay open throughout the pandemic except for periods of mandated closure.

The Gallery on 5th is a great place to visit if you’re in the market for art, or just want to see what local and regional artists are up to. The space, almost 4000 sq. feet with overhead fans, has been renovated to be open with an easy flow and offer shoppers a comfortable experience. Babette worked at a local hospital during the peak of the pandemic and understands well how accommodations are important for people to feel safe. The Gallery is open every day, except Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will be open on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting in late May.

The local art centers are staying active with new works and new ideas. There are two upcoming auctions in the local art community. The Calumet Art Center in the Big Green Church is holding a silent auction to benefit a little dog named Yuki who has health challenges. This will be open until May 15, and you can participate in person by dropping in anytime Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

The Copper Country Community Arts Center in Hancock is holding an online auction from May 13 to May 15. There are more than 60 items of art, decadent desserts, and services including a gardening consultation, ecology walk, and a photoshoot.  New items will be added periodically.  Visit the Arts Center’s website www.coppercountryarts.com or auction site www.charityauction.bid/cccac.

Lots to check out in the art world these days….and I just heard that the Eagle Harbor Fair will be happening in August. Nice to see things opening up again!