Artists at Lake Tahoe shows local works

Click to Enlarge Karen Colbert, owner of Artists at Lake Tahoe, focuses on local artists' works in her Incline Village store. Bonanza Photo - Jen Schmidt Browse and Buy Tahoe Bonanza Photos

By Annie Flanzraich
Bonanza News Editor, aflanz@tahoebonanza.com
May 2, 2008

Print Email

Artists at Lake Tahoe is an art gallery with a focus on art made by local Lake Tahoe artists. It is not stamped “Made in China”, nor is it mass produced art which you find sold in other stores. More importantly, owner Karen Colbert feels is it is imperative to give back to the community through supporting the non-profit organizations. Ten percent of her proceeds from her art shows are donate to local non profits.

What’s new at Tahoe Quilts?
The new name of the gallery is Artists At Lake Tahoe, formerly Tahoe Quilts. The gallery features art by several Lake Tahoe artists, and all merchandise is created by a local artist. This is the perfect spot to obtain Lake Tahoe art which is produced in Lake Tahoe. We also feature jewelry, silk art, art in wood, pottery, home décor, soaps, and many other gift items - all made by local artists.

Why the name change?
Changing the business name from “Tahoe Quilts” to “Artists at Lake Tahoe” will, hopefully, better state the type of business I am promoting. Many customers who come into my shop think the word “quilts” connotes that I sell fabric. I do not sell fabric; I sell art. The name change should direct customers looking for art into my gallery and better exemplify the merchandise that is offered in my gallery. Many of the visitors to my shop are “quilters” and looking for fabric or want to see my “quilts”. My gallery features my art and art of local artists. I am not a fabric stores, and I feel the name “Tahoe Quilts” was not representative of an art gallery featuring quality art.

How will this add to your business:
I hope the new name will attract people who are looking for art produced by local artists, and thus, bring in customers who are art buyers seeking local art.

How did Artists at Lake Tahoe begin?
Tahoe Quilts was launched in 1999 when I left my “full time” job. After completing a few quilted pieces, based on color transitions, my first art show was at La Petite Salon in Kings Beach. That show was so successful that it launched my business, and 10 years later, I now have my own studio/gallery space in Incline Village, as well as room for other local art. A 21 year resident of Incline Village and graduate of Sierra Nevada College, my Business Administration degree has proved invaluable in running my business. Having served on the boards of both Project MANA and North Tahoe Arts has helped me understand the necessity of giving back to our community and supporting community endeavors.

What future plans are there for Artists at Lake Tahoe?
I want to feature more artists in my shop and host more art shows to allow local artists to showcase their art. i would also like to donate money to the community – I donate 10 percent of my show fees to a local community non-profit organization. The Incline High School was the recipient of my last art show.

Is there anything you would like to add:
When we travel, we look for goods produced in the local area. It is extremely disappointing to look at a product for sale touting the local community that has a label “Made in China” stuck to the bottom of the item. “Artists at Lake Tahoe” provides art and gifts specifically made in Lake Tahoe. My shop supports local artists, the local community, and local non-profit organizations. “Artists at Lake Tahoe” provides visitors and locals an opportunity to immerse themselves in “local art.”
For information on Artists at Lake Tahoe call 775-833-0637 or visit the gallery at 923 Tahoe Blvd, Ste. 101A.

“Business Profile” is a regular feature that looks at local businesses in the Incline Village area. The Bonanza does not endorse this or any other business. If you would like your business to be profiled, please call the Bonanza at (775) 831-4666.