I noticed art in the windows of the old Millennium Music space a few months ago, and loved the idea of putting art in empty spaces. King St. seems to look a little more alive and less vacant since the addition of WALK Gallery exhibits to barren storefronts.

Kimberly Held

A recent City Paper article discusses the concept and sheds some light on how and why it works. WALK stands for Window Art Local Knowledge, and was created by owners of Plum Elements, Andrea Schenck and Rena Lasch. It’s a win-win for the city and local artists because adding something interesting to an empty space attracts people to stop and look (and potential lease the space) and artists gain exposure (and may even sell their works).

A new exhibit just started this week at 372 King St. (former Millenium Music store), which highlights work by the students of the Art Connects Us Art School. More from the WALK website:

This exhibit will showcase the work of over 60 students of the husband/wife team of Dianne Tennyson and Eric Vincent. Work ranges from pastels, oils, pencil and pen to sculpture and cartooning. Dianne Tennyson and Eric Vincent, working artists with over 30 years of professional experience, concentrate on the basics with their students, guiding them through a more traditional curriculum that stresses discipline, focus and the development of seeing and eye/hand coordination. Dianne teaches drawing and oil and pastel painting, while Eric offers instruction in drawing, cartooning and sculpture.

Previous store fronts have included locations at various locations on King St. (152, 372, 479, 501, 517, 589) and 45 John St.

Are you an artist and want to display your work at future WALK exhibits? Are you a building owner and want to liven up your space with art? If so, email the organizers at email [email protected].

WALK Gallery runs with the help of an all-volunteer staff, and weekly meetings are held at Baked (160 East Bay St.) every Thursday at 9 a.m. Stay up-to-date with WALK on their Facebook fan page or Twitter.