It’s been in the family for over six decades, but soon Mona Lisa Artists’ Materials in Calgary’s Beltline neighbourhood will be closing its doors for good.
“This place was here before I was born,” says general manager Jennifer Beeger.
The store told customers the news earlier this week.
Jennifer says with prices going up over the last few years, along with the uncertain economic future as the threat of tariffs looms, it was time to close up shop.
“The pandemic was essentially the initial catalyst for prices to start going crazy and that’s not just in the art world, it’s across the board,” she said. “When you look at how many people are struggling just to put food on their table right now, some of these extras don’t make the priority list.”
People who shop at the store say the loss of places like Mona Lisa Artists’ Materials will leave a hole in the community.
“They have been a fixture in this community longer than I have been around. They have always been here,” said customer Leonard Conlin. “They have always been the go-to place for whatever you are looking for art wise. Losing them, it’s going to hurt the community.”
Another customer, Rachel Kubitz, agrees.
“They’re definitely hard to find especially the smaller local ones and I think as artists we are all struggling right now,” she said. “If I’m going to buy art supplies, these are often better.”
For assistant general manager, Aurora Beeger, who is also Jennifer’s niece, it’s that connection with customers she’ll miss the most.
“I watched people grow up here, I’m sure people have watched me grow up here, so to hear different stories see people at the height of their careers, or just starting to develop is huge,” she said.
While their store is closing, they are hoping Calgarians still show up for others.
“Please support small businesses; whether it’s art supplies or widgets, it doesn’t matter,” Jennifer said. “Help the people that are your neighbours if you can.”
The store’s last day is June 30 and a closing sale is scheduled to start on May 5.
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