By Laurie Lunsford—
MUNCIE, IN—“You are never too old to learn. Strive to do something new every day,” says Karen Fisher, teacher, artist, and owner of Art Mart. Fisher’s “something new” is construction. She is expanding her business in the Village by adding a large art classroom in the former tanning salon space in the strip mall. Along with wielding a paintbrush, she is learning to use tools to remove 20 tanning rooms, replace old flooring, and build fresh walls. Her dream is to create a place where people can gather and make art. She wants a place where she can provide the variety of classes her customers have been requesting over the years.
“The demand for art increased after 9/11,” Karen says.
“People needed an outlet. Creative arts and crafts have also become very popular since the pandemic. People are ready to make individual statements and create,” she says.
Fisher believes the possibilities are wide open. Classes could include basket weaving, painting techniques, pottery, and more. Customers are encouraged to make requests.
Gathering to create also brings a social element back into today’s world.
The classroom is another step beyond Fisher’s customer-centered art supply shop, extending her connection to the entire community—anyone, at any age.
Art Mart’s history runs deep in old Muncie. Art Mart began in the building where Gordy’s Art and Framing is located today. In old Muncie, it was known as Muncie Paint and Glass. At one time, the store even sold penny candy alongside art supplies.
The Art Mart storefront as photographed by Laurie Lunsford.
Karen graduated from Ball State in the 1970s with Brian and Genny Gordy, who later started the business that became Gordy’s. Karen joined the company and became a valued employee.
The shop offered quality framing and a wide selection of art supplies. In 2003, Brian and Genni decided to focus on high-quality framing, giving Karen the opportunity to open her own art supply store.
Brian Gordy reminisces back to when their one store birthed a second one. “Karen had been such a great friend. When we brought her in as store manager, it was a turning point for the company. Loved by all the employees and customers, she was always a positive influence. We were thrilled when she moved forward to have her own shop, and she has done a great job with it,”
One business became two strong local enterprises. No e-commerce retailer can replicate what these businesses have given Muncie over the years—or what they continue to offer today. Both are family-owned businesses committed to serving everyone who walks through their doors. Karen has developed Art Mart into a haven for local artists, students, and hobbyists. It feels like home to those who walk through the doors.
Connecting people through art began at Gordy’s years ago, and Karen continues the legacy that began so long ago downtown. (The frame making business is still progressing. Gordy’s Art and Framing is now owned by Carl and Barbara Schafer.)
Art Mart has remained a lively part of the Village at Ball State for more than 23 years. With its current location and dedicated staff, Karen can expand the business and offer more personalized experience, something that appears to be in growing demand.
