Dawn Stafford & Her Peachbelt Studio
There are certain places around Saugatuck, Michigan that always make us happy; Dawn Stafford’s Peachbelt Studio & Gallery is at the top of that list. This rural—and brilliantly preserved—red brick building originally opened its doors as a one-room schoolhouse in 1868. It has not moved, nor changed in size, since then. It served as a school until 1968, then a church, an antique store, and a weekend cottage for the VanEyl family. Dawn Stafford purchased the building in 2003 and has lovingly renovated it into the stunning space it is today. The schoolhouse is on the Michigan Register of Historic Sites.
The Artwork of Dawn Stafford
We appreciate the history and the beauty of the place, and we love Stafford’s paintings! Dawn received her BFA from the prestigious Swain School of Design in Massachusetts. Her recognizable style earns her the attention of fine art collectors from around the country. Her original oil paintings are at once classical and lyrical, realistic and expressionistic. They display a refined, individualized interpretation of the sensual world around her. Stafford is inspired by her connection to the natural landscape and the bountiful waters of Lake Michigan. Her deep concern for the process of painting is evident, and her opulent color palate has become the hallmark of her work.
The Exhibition Artists of Peachbelt Studio
In truth, we love everything about a visit to Peachbelt Studio. The gardens are gorgeous, the architectural birdhouses by guest artist Jill Burger always delight, the handblown Murano glassworks by Judy Hallisy are stunning, the clay and bronze sculpture by Jill Lareaux captivate, the whimsical bentwood structure by Demitree Oakheart enchants, and the wildflowers and magic beans sold by daughter Lillian at her hilltop butterfly garden? It doesn’t get any better.
Fall is the ideal time to visit Peachbelt. From Wickwood in downtown Saugatuck you can easily make a day of visiting the gallery, making your way to Crane’s Orchards, stopping off at Virtue Farms for a pint of cider, and enjoy the beauty of autumn and Saugatuck’s country roads all along the way.
Plan your visit to Peachbelt Studio today and reserve your Indian Summer getaway to Wickwood Inn.