Ypsi Art Supply doubles its space, expanding class and workshop offerings

On the Ground Ypsilanti is an “embedded journalism” program covering the city and township of Ypsilanti. It is supported by Ann Arbor SPARK, the Center for Health and Research Transformation, Destination Ann Arbor, Eastern Michigan University, Engage @ EMU, Washtenaw Community College, Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, and Washtenaw ISD.

An art supply store is growing into a creative hub in downtown Ypsilanti as Ypsi Art Supply’s (YAS) newly expanded space welcomes classes, workshops, and collaborative artmaking. The recently completed expansion to the shop adds a classroom, communal workspace, and future gallery area next door to YAS’ original retail shop at 42 N. Huron St. in downtown Ypsi. Owner Megan Foldenauer describes the expansion, which involved knocking out a wall to connect two retail spaces, as the realization of a long-running vision.

“From the very, very beginning, when YAS was just an idea on paper 10 years ago, I wanted the space to include things beyond retail,” Foldenauer explains. “Third spaces have become vital in our lives these days and I wanted to facilitate the creation of one centered around the arts.”

Since the classroom opened at the end of February, it has become home to a wide range of creative programming. Foldenauer partnered with longtime local arts educator Lena Ellis-Boatman of Rhizome Art Studio to manage the classroom and organize classes ranging from natural dyeing and printmaking to painting and bookmaking. Outside of scheduled programming, visitors are encouraged to use a communal work table in the new space. There are also plans to add a small library, rotating gallery exhibitions, and affordable classroom rentals for artists seeking dedicated workspace.

“Future plans include using the one finished wall as a gallery,” Foldenauer says. “We also intend to let artists who need more private space for longer stretches book hours in the classroom for an affordable hourly rate.”

Independent artists have also hosted one-time workshops in jewelry making and stamp carving, while recurring programs include an artist journal club and a blind contour drawing class led by YAS intern Sam Moyle. The classroom has served as a gathering place for monthly Postcards for Peace meetings, First Friday events, and even an arts-and-crafts-themed 40th birthday celebration.

Foldenauer says she also hopes to expand partnerships with regional arts organizations and manufacturers through demonstrations and workshops. She also plans to continue collaborating with local creative institutions such as Dzanc House Gallery, Riverside Arts Center and 2 West, whose donated furniture and cabinetry helped furnish the expansion.

“I hope many, many more people get to learn from them,” Foldenauer says of YAS’ growing roster of local instructors and partners. “If it’s creative, we want to have you.”

Those interested in hosting programs in the classroom space can fill out this Google interest form or stop by the shop in person. A full calendar of events is available at ypsiartsupply.com. 

“Our overall goal is to have a heavily-loved classroom that local folks know they are welcome in and that all levels of creative educators think of when wanting to host events,” Foldenauer says.