Step inside this 1,000 square-foot shop in Lisle, IL and discover a creative hub for both makers and shoppers alike. Owner is currently seeking the work of more local artisans so don't be shy -- stop by! Scroll down for interior views...
Beth Lesniak’s Shiny Squirrel Art Shop & Studio is a sparkling little gem of about 1,000 square feet tucked into a little strip mall in downtown Lisle, IL at 1111 Burlington Avenue, Suite 101. Its silly name is a reflection of how artists can become easily distracted by what Beth and her friends refer to as “Squirrel! Shiny Squirrel!”
Inside, shoppers will find a colorful, warm and welcoming combination of artisan gifts in the store’s front retail boutique section. Homemade candles and soaps along with jewelry dot the shelves among other types of home décor items like throw pillows or cozy throws.
Behind the shopping area, is a fun makers section where up to 16 students can receive instruction on a variety of methods. Beth or guest instructors host classes, crafty birthday parties for children or adults and other craft-related, private events.
Classes offered include stenciled serving trays, forming polymer clay items, mixed media, mandala dots, and more. Be sure to check her website below for an up-to-date class schedule.
“I like providing classes that give students give good results they can take home proudly,” Beth says. “No matter what their art skill level is, I want them to be successful, have a good time, and not feel frustrated.”
One of her most popular classes is mandala dots painted on mugs, holiday ornaments, stones, and more.
“I think that class is especially enjoyable because there’s such a meditative quality about it,” she notes. “It’s interesting to observe. The instructor explains how to do it and as the students get pulled into their projects, and really concentrate, it gets very quiet in here.”
Students sign up for classes with friends or feel perfectly comfortable coming alone after work. Class prices range anywhere from $15 to $65, but the average hovers more around $45 and also includes all supplies.
Beth opened the shop two years ago after many years working in non-creative technology jobs. Although they paid the bills, they didn’t enrich her life. Growing up in a family of creatives and minoring in art at college, she was accustomed to having that energy around her. In fact, her talented grandmother, who studied art in Russia, even had one of her Christmas ornaments placed on the White House Christmas tree!
Beth, as a newly elected Lisle Village trustee, is committed to helping make Lisle a community that fosters and nurtures the arts even more. We're confident she'll do just that!
Interested artists can contact her directly for an opportunity to sell there at a 70/30 split.
Retail hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 11-6
Phone: 630-935-2186
Owner, Beth Lesniak, sits at her cash/wrap station in the retail boutique area of her art studio.