So, you say you'd like to find some nice things to decorate your home and yard, but would rather not have the same stuff you see in everyone else's place? Then you need to make your way to Elements Gallery in Beloit. Featuring works from over 100 artisans and craftsmen throughout the US and other parts of the world, Elements Gallery is a fine craft gallery. That means their stock of merchandise is quite unique and makes for a great sense of creating a personal style that won't be imitated or duplicated.
With items ranging from glass vessels, mirrors, dishware, sculpture and much more, Elements Gallery focuses on both decorative and functional art for the home and garden. They have items constructed from wood, clay, glass, metal, textiles and even paper. With a selection of handcrafted jewelry you can even decorate yourself. All this makes Elements Gallery a "must check out" place. While it's location in Beloit makes it a bit off the beaten Rockford path, it's well worth the drive.
Elements Gallery is so named because it represents the core of their business. Owner Sandra Riley says that the name "reflects the process of taking basic elements, small building blocks or raw materials, and manipulating them to create something more complex and beautiful." The fact that their inventory consists of craft works means that each piece is unique to itself.
Riley opened the gallery in May at 319 State Street in downtown Beloit. They are having a grand opening on July 28th, but if you really want to avoid the chaos and crowds to have a chance to look around in a leisurely fashion, you should probably stop by before then. Mind you, with local artist Diana Pratt to be featured at the Grand Opening, you might still want to mark your calendars.
Pratt's appearance at the Grand opening will be just the first of many similar events that will be held at the Gallery. Lisa Frost is set to appear on August 11th. These type of happenings are a perfect way to get to know the works of talented local artists and get some insight into who these people are and the motivation and process of their creations. It's just one more way that Elements Gallery brings the world of fine crafts to the public.
Be sure to stop in and see this exceptional and unique gallery. You will no doubt be impressed and charmed by their selection and spirit. The story is open Tuesday to Friday from 10 to 5:30 and Saturday 10 to 4. It's a quick trip up 251. Then just follow it (it's 51 in Beloit) as it turns and makes its way to downtown. A quick right onto State Street and find your parking spot because they are just on the right side in the first block. It's a trip you'll be glad you made. And don't forget, their great selection of unique items make them a great stop for gift hunting, too.
All pictures by Brandi Carlton. | 
