Sunset on still waters
Door County has long been a hub for visual artists. Painters, potters, sculptors, weavers, glass blowers—creators using all manner of media flock here to be inspired by the peninsula’s idyllic feel and romantic light. Studios both public and private dot the county. Galleries display art by native and imported artists alike. Even non-galleries like restaurants and the local YMCA are adorned with rotating installations by local artists. Art is part of what Door County is.
No matter if you’re a voracious art collector or just appreciate new concepts expressed in various media, the galleries of Door County have something for you. It would be quite a feat to visit all of the galleries displaying art on the peninsula, so I’ve focused on some whose spaces are as special as the creations within them.
Inspired by the farm it was once a part of, the Woodwalk Gallery is located in a rustic wood-plank barn near Egg Harbor. The gallery features a wide range of creations, from pottery to mixed media. This beautiful setting can also be rented for weddings.
Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 21 minutes (15.3 miles)
Like Woodwalk, Edgewood Orchard Gallery is also a repurposed stone fruit barn. But its real attraction is the grounds, which are home to dozens of whimsical sculptures that delight at every turn. From wood to glass and everything in between, Edgewood does not shy away from a variety of media. They feature new work each month during their May to November season.
Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 11 minutes (7.6 miles)
The Hardy Gallery is perhaps the most recognizable gallery in Door County, and not just for the art inside. Once a storehouse for cedar and fish before their export from Door County, this century-and-a-half-old building is on the National Register of Historic Places. Located on the Anderson Dock in Ephraim, the building itself has become a collaborative work of art, as today’s visitors keep up the tradition of boaters of yesteryear and paint their names on the building’s sides. Inside is the pristine Hardy Gallery which presents several exhibitions each season. Well-established for over 50 years, the Hardy showcases work of local and regional painters, sculptors, ceramic artists and many other media.
Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 14 minutes (9.1 miles)
In south Sister Bay, tucked back from Highway 42 is an eye-catching building comprised of a stocky stone turret, wood siding and cedar shingles. Fineline Designs Gallery was, believe it or not, once a chicken coop before it was converted to the fine art gallery it is today. The elegant former coop houses all manner of artwork, from home furnishings to fibers. Its extensive two-acre garden is part of the draw, populated by sculptures available for purchase.
Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: 13 minutes (9.4 miles)
Some galleries remain open year round, while others keep a shorter seasons, usually May through November. As you plan your art getaway in northern Door County, don’t forget to check the Blacksmith Inn’s availability for a serene landing spot.
