Visual Art Community Orgs

Beloved Art Center Gets Bright New Look

new lighting fixtures in Heyde Center for the Arts fully illuminate local art

Kelly Carlson, photos by Andrea Paulseth |

LIGHT IT UP. Chippewa Falls' Heyde Center for the Arts now has new lights for its gallery work to truly shine throughout the day. Pictured is guest exhibit curator Beryl Ouimette Jr. and Executive Director Debra Johnson.
LIGHT IT UP. Chippewa Falls' Heyde Center for the Arts now has new lights for its gallery work to truly shine throughout the day. Pictured is guest exhibit curator Beryl Ouimette Jr. and Executive Director Debra Johnson.

In Chippewa Falls, overlooking the river on high ground, the Heyde Center for the Arts represents history, reclaiming culture, and is a hub for artists in the area to express joy in each other’s creativity. Hoping to give back to the artists showcasing their work, volunteers and staff have an exciting – and illuminating – announcement. 

Spearheaded by Kay Brathol-Hostvet and Marlin Hostvet and a group of dedicated volunteers, staff, and board members, brand-new professional lighting will be making its way to the Heyde Center’s art gallery. 

“We have several artist groups and many artists that exhibit regularly at the HC (Heyde Center) that understood and appreciated the impact the new gallery lighting would make on their art,” Debra Johnson, Executive Director at the Heyde Center, said. “They already liked the HC’s open and airy gallery space, but the past lighting didn't’ showcase the artwork as well as it could.” 

With a discount from Pahl’s Designer Showroom and J.H. Larson on the equipment, the lighting fixtures will be beaming as early as Jan. 5. Beryl Ouimette will be the featured artist under the new lighting, recognizing her love for art, community, and the Heyde Center itself.

Folks can celebrate at a formal reception on Jan. 5 from 5-7 pm at the Heyde Center. “Donors, artists, art enthusiasts, and people who remember and appreciate Beryl Ouimette are encouraged to stop by to see the artwork, the lights, and enjoy appetizers, non-alcoholic beverages, and a cash bar,” Johnson said. “We are incredibly blessed.” 

Before new lighting.
Before new lighting.
After.
After.

Learn more about the Hyde Center, its events, and Beryl Ouimette at https://www.cvca.net