NORTHAMPTON In an effort to fill up some of the vacant storefronts that dot the downtown landscape, the city and state have partnered to offer tax credits to new businesses that open in certain spaces that are currently sitting empty.The city’s.
Published: 4/9/2021 2:56:31 PM
NORTHAMPTON Longtime downtown business owner Bill Muller thought he had a plan consolidate his Northampton businesses, Guild Art Supply and Pierce’s Frameshop, and his Easthampton printing business, Big Wheel Press, into one space in the old Serio’s Market storefront on State Street in Northampton.
The spot was ideal, complete with parking. “We were working on floor plans and everything,” he said. “Then COVID hit.”
Surrounded by so much economic uncertainty, Muller scrapped those plans entirely. Instead of staying in downtown Northampton, where he’s run Guild Art Supply for 37 years, he made the tough decision last year to move the store and framing shop to his press space in Easthampton.
A quarter century in the art world: William Baczek Fine Arts marks anniversary with group exhibit
William Baczek in his gallery, William Baczek Fine Arts in Northampton, now marking its 25th year of business. “Cynthia,” by Valley-based artist Robin Freedenfeld, is to the left. STAFF PHOTO/CAROL LOLLIS
William Baczek believes the longevity of his Northampton art gallery, now 25 years old, can be traced to the close relationships he’s built up with artists and clients over the years. STAFF PHOTO/CAROL LOLLIS
STAFF PHOTO/CAROL LOLLIS
William Baczek in his William Baczek Fine Arts gallery in Northampton, reflects on 25 years in business. Behind him are abstract works by experimental painter Jaq Chartier of Seattle. STAFF PHOTO/CAROL LOLLIS