It's time for another DG Interview, today's questions and answers from a Chicago store that I'm sure many of our readers are quite familiar with: Lincoln Square's Sacred Art. We could gush and gush about owner Sarah Chazin and her staff (hey Michele!) but will contain ourselves by saying that Sacred Art=sincerity. She is sincere in her mission to support local artists and crafters by presenting their work in a non-threatening but professional environment; she is sincere in her promotion of small, locally owned business; and she is sincere in her customer service, client relationships, and overall since of community. It is perhaps for all of these reasons and more that we hear at every Chicago art fair, "Hey, you stock with Sacred Art." And we're so happy that we do.
Some of our favorite stockists (clockwise from top left): a. favorite design, Elke Claus, Spinalfusion, Matt Bergstrom (Wurlington Brothers Pres), Circa Ceramics.
Tell us a little about you and the start of Sacred Art.
Sacred art is Chicago's only retail outlet to exclusively sell locally made art. I wanted to cater to the struggling artist who didn't have the background to get into standard galleries as well as the more established local guy that everyone looks for like Dolan!
How would you describe Sacred Art?
I would describe Sacred Art as inviting. We have the gallery set up like a shop. I know some galleries can be sparse and cold but with all the different artists and mediums we offer, the space can't help feeling cozy and fun. Not to mention the staff is super knowledgeable and friendly. If you don't know a thing about art there won't be any problem. If we know, we will explain it to you without attitude.
What's new in Sacred Art?
The newest thing that is most unique would be our Chicago landmark postcards. You cut out the postcards and assemble the pieces to form a 3D replica of a Chicago building.
What's one of the craziest things (good or bad) that has happened in the last year?
The craziest thing that happened last year was our business being up by a pretty nice percentage. Totally was not expected with all of the bad economy talk.
When you go to sleep at night, what excites you about going to work the next day?
Usually it is hanging new work and seeing what people think about it and then being able to call the artist once they sell their first piece of artwork. And that is sometimes first sold ever not just in the shop. That's fun.
What's your proudest moment since opening Sacred Art?
I think everyday I am open I am prouder and prouder. Many people didn't think this concept would work (mostly artist friends). Everyday I am open is a success.
Anything new or exciting on the horizon?
Coming up we have our 4 yr anniversary. The anniversary party is on Feb 4th 6-9pm. To thank everyone who have helped us make it this far, all day people will get 25% off everything. Then Feb 5-7 people can get 25% off one item and 10% off the rest of their purchase.Note: Recently, a good friend to Sacred Art, Shawn Koch, was diagnosed with brain cancer. Sacred Art will be donating a portion of their sales during their 4th anniversary celebration to help out Shawn, his wife, and their baby girl. On February 4, customers can opt to donate their discount of 25% to help Shawn and his family. Or customers can take 15% off and donate the 10% discount. Over the weekend, from Feb 5-7, customers can also donate to their discounts to help this cause.
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