Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Klein.
Hi Danielle, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Welcome to Stella’s Art Gallery, where creativity and craftsmanship intertwine in a vibrant celebration of artistry. Our gallery is the result of a vision that started over 10 years ago, when my mother, Carol Pitts, and I, fueled by our shared passion for art, began meeting with local artists in coffee shops around Lake County, Ohio. Our goal was simple: to create a space that nurtures and supports the artistic community. We recognized the need for such a space and soon found ourselves on an exciting journey.
What started as a small venture quickly grew beyond our expectations. We began in a humble space, but we soon outgrew it. During the pandemic, we took a leap of faith and relocated to the heart of Downtown Willoughby, Ohio—a vibrant, artsy community that was the perfect fit for our vision. Today, Stella’s Art Gallery proudly showcases the incredible work of over 71 talented local artists from across Northeast Ohio.
Our gallery offers a diverse and inspiring collection, from glasswork, paintings, and pottery to blacksmithing, jewelry, woodworking, photography, and so much more. Whether you’re searching for a unique piece for your home, office, or a thoughtful gift, we have something that will captivate your imagination and enrich your space.
Spanning 5,000 square feet, our gallery features 14 artist studios, three floors, two galleries, classrooms, and several working spaces—all filled with art that speaks to the soul. Every corner of our gallery is a reflection of the creativity and passion that define Stella’s Art. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just beginning to explore the world of art, Stella’s is a place where creativity thrives, and inspiration is endless.
We invite you to visit us today and experience the artistry and craftsmanship that make Stella’s Art Gallery not just a place to admire art, but a place to truly connect with the creative spirit.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The pandemic was, without a doubt, our biggest obstacle. Like so many others, we were forced to adapt quickly and navigate a world that seemed uncertain and unpredictable. For a small, growing business like ours, the challenges were immense. We had just relocated to Downtown Willoughby, excited to expand and offer more to our community, when the world came to a halt.
The gallery, once filled with visitors and energy, was suddenly empty. We had to rethink everything—how to support our artists, how to connect with our customers, and how to keep the gallery alive. Many of our local artists were facing their own struggles as events and markets were canceled, and sales slowed down. But through all the uncertainty, we leaned on each other, drawing strength from the very community we had set out to nurture.
We quickly pivoted to online platforms, offering virtual tours and showcasing artwork through social media. We created opportunities for people to connect with art in new ways, even if they couldn’t visit us in person. The pandemic forced us to be creative and resourceful, pushing us to reimagine what Stella’s Art Gallery could be in this new world.
Despite the hardship, we emerged stronger, more determined, and more connected to the artists and community we serve. The pandemic may have been the biggest obstacle we’ve faced, but it also became a catalyst for growth and transformation, reminding us that art—and the people who create it—can always find a way to thrive, even in the most challenging times.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My love for art began at a young age, deeply influenced by the creative environment around me. I spent my childhood watching my grandmother paint stunning oil landscapes and my mother craft beautiful wreaths and candles. Even as a child, I knew that art would play a significant role in my life, shaping my passions and ambitions.
In 1999, I earned a Master of Arts in Art Therapy from Ursuline College in Beachwood, Ohio. During graduation, I was honored to receive the Initiative and Innovation Award for starting a local community art program. This experience sparked something in me, and I quickly realized that my journey wasn’t just about creating art—it was about building communities through art. I wasn’t done starting programs that could bring people together through creativity and knew something bigger was going to happen.
When it comes to my own artistic practice, I specialize in hand-building with clay, focusing mostly on animal sculptures with personalities. However, I also create functional pieces such as platters, bowls, and mugs. I enjoy the tactile process of working with clay, allowing the material to shape itself into both expressive forms and practical items. Additionally, I throw on the potter’s wheel, constantly exploring new techniques and ways to expand my artistic repertoire. Art has always been a driving force in my life, and through both my work and community efforts, I strive to share that passion with others.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Looking ahead over the next 5-10 years, I see some exciting changes and opportunities for Stella’s Art Gallery.
One key trend I anticipate is the increasing demand for locally crafted and sustainable art. As more people seek meaningful, unique pieces for their homes and offices, there will be a greater focus on supporting local artists and artisans. We’re already seeing a shift toward more conscious consumerism, and I believe this will lead to a rise in people wanting to buy locally and support artists. At Stella’s, we’ve always celebrated the creativity of our Northeast Ohio artists, and this trend will only deepen our commitment to showcasing sustainable and locally made art.
Additionally, community-focused initiatives will continue to play a central role in the future of the gallery. Over the years, Stella’s Art has not only been a place to view art but a space where artists and art lovers come together. I expect this sense of community to grow even stronger. Art classes, workshops, and collaborative events will become more integral to our offerings, creating opportunities for artists to engage with the public and for people of all ages to connect with the creative process.
I also see a shift toward more immersive art experiences. With the evolving art scene, galleries like Stella’s may explore new ways of displaying and experiencing art. Whether it’s through themed exhibitions, interactive installations, or collaborative events that bring together multiple art forms, I envision the gallery continuing to evolve into a dynamic space that offers something new and exciting for both seasoned collectors and first-time visitors.
As the art world continues to grow, inclusivity and diversity will be at the forefront. Stella’s Art Gallery has always valued the diverse voices of our local artists, and this commitment will remain strong. Over the next decade, I see an even greater push for galleries to reflect the wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that artists bring to their work. We will continue to highlight and support underrepresented voices, ensuring that our gallery is a space where everyone feels welcome and represented.
Finally, as people continue to embrace the convenience of online shopping, Stella’s will continue to expand our digital presence. While we will always prioritize the in-person experience, I foresee our online platform growing as a way to connect with art lovers far beyond our physical location. This will allow us to offer the same personalized experience to customers who may not be able to visit in person but still want to support the incredible artists we represent.
In summary, the future of Stella’s Art Gallery is bright, with a focus on community, sustainability, inclusivity, and evolving art experiences. As the world of art continues to change, we are excited to be a part of shaping it and to continue offering a place where creativity thrives.
Pricing:
- Affordable
- Variety
- Something for everyone
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stellasartgallery.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stellas_art_gallery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stellas.art.inc
