A new creative gathering space is taking shape in downtown Winter Park, where Alpenglow Art Center is preparing to open at 78746 US-40, Unit C-113. The upcoming business will combine a local art gallery, crafting projects, hands-on workshops, glass flameworking, and a small bar, and has been sharing updates on social media as it readies to open.
“We wanted to create a space where making art feels as casual and social as grabbing a drink with friends. Somewhere you can walk in without a plan, pick up a project, try something completely new, or just hang out and enjoy the space. You don’t have to consider yourself an artist to enjoy being creative, and that’s really what Alpenglow is all about,” founder Kenzie Lipe told What Now.
Lipe has an extensive background in the art world. She studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, specializing in neon bending and light art, before expanding into flameworking, glassblowing, and plasma art. She later worked at Chicago’s WNDR Museum.
The concept will bring together several experiences under one roof, with a front gallery showcasing work from local artists, and a DIY section and flameworking space allowing visitors to select their own art kits and work on projects independently. Its layout will incorporate high-top tables, bar seating, dedicated crafting tables, and a lounge corner with a couch and art books.
Alpenglow will also host traditional art classes, workshops such as stained glass, printmaking, watercolor, and ornament making, and social programming like paint-and-sip events, vision-boarding nights, and disco ball decorating parties. Private events and group experiences will also be available.
The lease commenced September 1, and construction and installations are underway. Most permits have been cleared, with a liquor license hearing scheduled for November 17. The business anticipates having a couple of part-time studio administrators, and a rotating group of local artists and instructors to lead classes.
“Whoever is reading this should feel free to reach out if they’re interested in teaching a class or showing their work!” Lipe notes.
She plans to debut the space by the end of the year, with a community soft opening prior. Alpenglow plans to operate seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with select classes and private bookings available outside regular business hours.
