HERBSTER, October 31, 2022— Authentic Superior, a nonprofit based on Lake Superior’s South Shore, announced today that they are nearing completion of their “non-virtual” services based out of a commercial building in Herbster. They are seeking all artists, craftspeople, farmers, food producers, and other makers of original goods who reside in the area who wish to have their works displayed and sold in the nonprofit marketplace. A very nominal commission will be charged, which can be offset by volunteering a few hours per month. The marketplace will be open year-round, with the target date for opening Thanksgiving weekend.
In addition to the marketplace, the space will also offer a classroom/meeting room, art exhibit/gallery space, and event space. During this winter, the organization plans to hold monthly indoor markets as well as events primarily targeted at those who reside in the community all winter: movie nights, game nights, musical performances, dinners, and more. The organization is also working on a calendar of classes & workshops, with the initial offering including figure drawing, carpentry, photography, wreath making, and floral design.
The building’s primary occupant is Herbster-based home services & property management company, Bark Point Ventures. In addition to housing their operations center and offices, they will house a small local visitor information center in the retail space, providing a range of information to visitors to the area.
“I am over the moon at the fact we are able to take this huge step forward in fulfilling our organization’s vision & mission,” remarked Erin Hutchinson, Authentic Superior’s founder. “Our primary goal from the outset has been to create more opportunities to promote the incredible creative energy and output that makes the South Shore region so unique, and by doing so, bring more money directly to those who work so hard to make a living through their creative efforts. We cannot wait to increase the value we bring to the region’s creative community as well as all residents and visitors to the area.“
Authentic Superior was founded in early 2020, with its first focus being the launch of a virtual marketplace, driven by the need for creative producers to be able to continue to sell their works despite the closing of most in-person venues and retail spaces. The organization’s mission is to celebrate the unique creativity and renegade spirit that makes the South Shore of Lake Superior so unique.
This announcement should be of great interest to both those who are seeking opportunities to sell, show, and/or provide classes on their creative works as well as any other area residents and visitors who are interested in the arts, traditional crafts, farming, floral design, and the unique natural beauty of the region.
