Business Spotlight: More than a gallery, ART on Grand builds creative community in Wausau – Wausau Pilot & Review

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By Shereen Siewert | Wausau Pilot & Review

WAUSAU — A former muffler shop on Grand Avenue is now humming with a different kind of energy—one fueled by creativity, community, and connection.

ART on Grand, located at 2202 Grand Ave., is the vision of co-owners Chuck O’Brien and Brenda Stiegman, two artists and entrepreneurs who saw the potential for something more when they came across the vacant garage.

“Our inspiration was Darbytown Art Studio in Fredericksburg, Va., where I used to live,” O’Brien said. “The owner there had created a welcoming environment that I missed as I moved my home to Wausau. When we found the old muffler shop, we realized it had the potential to be so much more, with a welcoming gallery and a large workshop/teaching space.”

From the outside, the building still hints at its industrial past. But inside, it has been reimagined as a warm, inviting space where creativity thrives. The open layout, natural light, and flexible studios give artists room to explore and connect with others. Visitors often comment on how the space feels different—unpretentious, energizing, and inclusive.

“There’s something about the space itself that invites you to slow down, look around, and engage,” O’Brien said.

Since opening, ART on Grand has been embraced by the community and supported by groups like the Wisconsin Valley Art Association and the Wisconsin Visual Artists Guild.

“Located in the Southeast Side neighborhood of Wausau, we’ve been welcomed with open arms,” O’Brien said. “It doesn’t hurt that I also live in the neighborhood. I am continually amazed by the sheer number of outstanding artists in the Wausau area.”

Art as connection—and healing

At its core, ART on Grand is more than a gallery. It’s a place where art becomes a bridge—connecting people, sparking conversation, and offering a space for personal and communal healing.

“Art brings people together,” O’Brien said. “Whether you’re creating, teaching, or just looking, it creates space for joy, reflection and connection.”

Co-owner Brenda Stiegman brings years of pottery experience to the studio, teaching classes for teens and adults that focus on the therapeutic and expressive power of working with clay.

Now offering scheduled classes in both wheel-throwing and hand-building, Stiegman’s approach emphasizes process over perfection, encouraging students to explore and express themselves in new ways.

“At the heart of it all is a simple belief: art is for everyone,” O’Brien said. “It’s joyful to create, and just as joyful to share. That’s our mission—to show, share, promote, and teach art in a welcoming and inspiring space.”

Supporting emerging artists

The gallery also serves as an incubator for new talent, offering 24/7-accessible studio space and special rates for student artists looking to build their audience.

“At ART on Grand, we believe in giving artists the chance to be seen,” O’Brien said. “We provide opportunities for creators to showcase their work to people who truly want to experience it—art lovers, collectors, and community members who appreciate original talent.”

Anyone interested in joining the ART on Grand community is invited to stop by.

“ART on Grand can accept many kinds of art and artist,” O’Brien said. “To become part of the ART on Grand family, come into the store and we’ll find a great spot for your work.”

Personal expression meets professional balance

Stiegman, who has a background in real estate and teaches financial independence, often uses the workshop as her own creative outlet. She’s currently working on a long-envisioned pottery series and collaborating with local glass-blower Adam Guenther on a mixed-medium installation.

O’Brien, a photographer who still shoots with film, uses the space to mount and prepare his images, which are developed in a home darkroom using both traditional and alternative techniques.

Looking ahead

Despite current uncertainties surrounding funding for nonprofit arts support, ART on Grand remains optimistic – and steadfastly focused on growth. The owners are pursuing partnerships to host exhibitions and community shows, with hopes of expanding programming in the years to come.

“Now more than ever, we need businesses and art lovers to step up and show their support for the great work those organizations do,” O’Brien said.

Above all, the gallery is grounded in its mission: to offer a space where art lives, breathes and connects people.

“We’re more than ‘the old muffler shop.’ A lot more,” O’Brien said. “Here, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to discover that one piece that speaks to you.”

With a growing community of artists and students, and a mission rooted in joy, accessibility and expression, ART on Grand has quickly become a vibrant addition to Wausau’s already rich artistic landscape.

“We’re not here to reshape Wausau’s cultural landscape—we’re proud to be part of it,” O’Brien said. “We simply want to add to that momentum—supporting, celebrating, and making space for art and artists in every form.”

Take a look inside ART on Grand

ART on Grand at a glance

? Location: 2202 Grand Avenue, Wausau, WI 54403
?? Phone: 715-393-4090
? Social: Follow ART on Grand on Facebook
? Hours: Call for current hours and class schedule
? What you’ll find:
- Art gallery with rotating exhibits
- Pottery wheel and hand-building classes for teens and adults
- Private pottery parties
- Studio rentals with 24/7 access
- Opportunities for emerging artists to display and sell work
- Support for educators interested in teaching art
? Get involved: Artists, teachers and community members are encouraged to visit, share ideas and discover what’s possible through art.

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Business Spotlight: More than a gallery, ART on Grand builds creative community in Wausau – Wausau Pilot & Review

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Supporting emerging artists

Personal expression meets professional balance

Looking ahead

Take a look inside ART on Grand

ART on Grand at a glance

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