Bellingham gallery permanently closing after 52 years as owner opts to retire
A Bellingham business located in the historic Fairhaven neighborhood is closing permanently after operating for more than half a century.
Gallery West, a fine art and photography gallery started by David Lucas, will officially close Dec. 31. Lucas, is ready to retire after 52 years of business.
Beyond being the owner of the gallery, Lucas also features his Northwest photography in the shop.
“I’m going to continue my photography at my home studio and sell it in other galleries, probably in Bellingham, maybe in La Conner. There’s a lot of demand for my photography. I ship around the country, and sometimes out of the country, people looking for Northwest images,” Lucas told The Herald.
The business sells prints of Lucas’ photography, as well as fine arts and crafts made only in the U.S.
“We want to thank the community for being so loyal over the years, you know, and very faithful clientele. A lot of it has to do with the quality of the work, the fact that it’s all handmade in the U.S., no imports,” Lucas said.
Lucas aimed to only sell U.S. made products and artists from the beginning of his business, and has continued to feature artists from across the country.
“I got my degree in American craft from (Western Washington University) so that that’s one reason when I opened I wanted to be American, and that it wasn’t to counter imports. ... What we carry is from all over the country, where we can find good work. And we go to some of the national shows, where artists gather that we can go and meet them, and if we like their work, we purchase their work,” Lucas said.
“David would like to reach out to everyone in Fairhaven, and the community at large, and thank them for the support they have given Gallery West has received over the years,” Lucas wrote in a news release.
Until the official closure on Dec. 31, Gallery West will be holding a liquidation sale, offering discounted art as well as furnishings.
“Beginning now, Gallery West is offering discounts on all gallery merchandise and store fixtures. Those interested can contact Dave at 360-510-7892 between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. for an appointment or to answer questions. Large discounts will be offered so Fairhaven businesses that market craft work and, or, gifts,” the news release states.
“Custom store fixtures, many made by local woodworker Ted Scherrer, will also be available including: maple cabinets, desks, shelving and print bins,” the release states.
Gallery West is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday at 1300 12th St. in Bellingham.
David Lucas’ photography is available online at www.lucasphotographic.com.
