From handmade holiday treasures and Christmas crafting to Santa's messy footprints, Shelby Nesmith is helping keep Kenosha's creative spirit alive this holiday season!
There's something special about giving a gift that has a story behind it. Something handmade, one-of-a-kind, and created with a little extra heart.
And when it comes to finding those gifts, Lemon Street Gallery & ArtSpace in Kenosha's Union Park Arts District is a wonderful place to start!
At the heart of it all is Shelby Nesmith, the gallery's Executive Director, who has become a familiar face and passionate advocate for Kenosha's creative community.
For those who have followed Shelby's journey over the years, her dedication to Lemon Street is nothing new. From her years of volunteering and working at the gallery to leading the organization today, Shelby has continued to pour her time, creativity, and energy into making art accessible, supporting local artists, and bringing people together.
And let's give credit where credit is due: Keeping a nonprofit arts organization thriving takes more than creativity. It takes dedication, leadership, countless hours of hard work, and people like Shelby whose contributions deserve to be recognized, valued, and supported.
Lemon Street currently showcases artwork from 68 local artists, offers a variety of art classes, and operates a public clay studio. But beyond the artwork, it's a place where creativity and community come together.
We caught up with Shelby to talk about holiday shopping, her favorite Kenosha traditions, Christmas memories, and what's ahead for Lemon Street in 2027!
A Little Art, A Lot of Heart!
For someone who has never visited Lemon Street Gallery & ArtSpace, what can they expect?
"A warm welcome from our lovely gallery associate, and they can expect a stunning range of 2D and 3D artwork from local artists."
From paintings and pottery to unique handmade creations, there's always something new to discover.
What do you love most about being part of Kenosha's business and arts community?
"I love the connection that comes with supporting the creatives in our community."
That connection is especially meaningful during the holidays, when a gift purchased at Lemon Street directly supports the people creating art right here in our community.
Have Yourself an Artsy Little Christmas!
Forget the same old gifts! This holiday season, why not give something that's truly one-of-a-kind?
Lemon Street is bringing back its annual Artistree Giftable Art Show, filling the gallery with handmade gifts and creations from local artists.
What makes Artistree such a special holiday shopping experience?
"Where else are you going to find 100+ local artists to shop from at one place! We truly have something for everyone on your list."
And that's what makes shopping at Lemon Street so special. Every piece has a creator, a story, and a connection to the Kenosha community.
How does Lemon Street get into the holiday spirit?
"Setting up for our annual giftable art show, Artistree, decorating the main gallery while we play holiday music, and having a mini potluck for our volunteers is a sure fire way to get us into the holiday giving season!"
Mark Your Calendars for Some Holiday Creativity!
Artistree Giftable Art Show — November 28–December 24
Shop handmade artwork and gifts from local artists throughout the holiday season. Opening day on November 28 will feature complimentary seasonal beverages and snacks.
Café, Crafting, and Christmas — Saturday, December 12, 11 AM–9 PM
Enjoy free scheduled crafts, seasonal snacks, festive beverages, and a café pop-up while celebrating the holiday season with Kenosha's creative community.
And if you're looking for a gift that keeps on giving, Lemon Street offers art classes for anyone interested in learning something new or exploring their creative side!
Christmas Cookies, Barbie Dreamhouses & One Very Messy Santa!
Of course, we couldn't let Shelby get away without answering some of our favorite holiday questions!
What's one of your favorite childhood holiday memories?
"Making sugar cookies with my mom to give to family and friends."
What's a holiday tradition you still look forward to?
"Baking is always a big holiday tradition for me."
And what's one holiday treat you absolutely cannot go without?
"My mom's peanut butter fudge and peppermint bark."
Sounds like Shelby's mom knows a thing or two about making the holidays delicious!
What's the most memorable Christmas gift you've ever received?
"My 1998 Barbie Deluxe Dreamhouse."
Now THAT is a throwback!
But perhaps our favorite holiday memory involves a very thoughtful mom, a little Christmas magic, and one extremely unimpressed child.
Shelby recalls her mom creating fake Santa footprints leading from the front door to the Christmas tree when she was around four or five years old.
The idea was to make it look like Santa had actually visited the house.
But little Shelby wasn't exactly impressed.
Instead of marveling at the magic, she couldn't understand why Santa had made such a mess!
She kept pointing at the footprints, complaining about the mess Santa left behind, and wouldn't let it go until her mom finally vacuumed everything up.
Apparently, even Santa needs to clean up after himself!
A Few More Holiday Questions!
Favorite holiday movie? The Christmas Wedding Planner. According to Shelby, "So bad it's simply amazing!"
One Christmas song on repeat for 24 hours? "Santa Baby" by Eartha Kitt.
Holiday personality? Cindy Lou Who.
Real or artificial tree? Artificial.
White or colorful lights? Colorful!
Eggnog or hot chocolate? Hot chocolate, please!
And if Santa stopped by Lemon Street?
"I would want him to know that these are all talented, hardworking artists if he is ever in need of some really creative new elves for the workshop."
We think Santa would be pretty impressed!
Kenosha Through Shelby's Eyes
When Shelby isn't surrounded by art, she's enjoying everything that makes Kenosha special.
What's one holiday experience visitors absolutely shouldn't miss?
"You must experience the Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, Nov. 27."
Where do you go to experience a little holiday magic?
"Always enjoy going to one of our many wonderful local coffee shops, getting a cozy beverage, and watching the snow fall. Like being in a snow globe!"
And if friends or family are visiting from out of town?
Shelby recommends a trip to the Kenosha Public Museum, shopping at the indoor Kenosha HarborMarket, and finding a window seat at Anna's on the Lake.
She also encourages visitors to stop by East View Coffee Company.
What makes Kenosha such a special place during the holidays?
"I think Kenosha is a special place during the holiday season because we still have so many events going. We move inside but the fun, creativity, and energy continues on through the winter months."
And she's absolutely right! Just because the temperatures drop doesn't mean Kenosha's creativity slows down.
Supporting Local Art Is Supporting Local People
One thing that comes through loud and clear in Shelby's answers is her belief in supporting the people who make Kenosha special.
Why is shopping local so important, especially during the holidays?
"It is so meaningful to support the smaller business and local makers as it is a direct impact to the families in our community, not some unknown CEO and their second mansion somewhere. You are supporting the people who live and work in your own neighborhood."
That message carries extra meaning at Lemon Street.
As a nonprofit artist collective, the gallery relies on the dedication of its artists, volunteers, supporters, and staff to continue providing creative opportunities for the community.
And Shelby's leadership is an important part of that mission.
Supporting the arts also means supporting the people who make those opportunities possible. Their time, talents, and professional contributions have real value, and investing in them helps ensure that organizations like Lemon Street can continue enriching Kenosha for years to come.
Looking Ahead to 2027!
The creative energy isn't slowing down anytime soon!
Shelby shared that Lemon Street is hoping to begin Phase 1 of its classroom renovation project in 2027.
It's an exciting step toward expanding and improving the spaces where people can learn, create, and connect.
As 2026 comes to a close, what are you most thankful for?
"I am thankful for all the love and support for the gallery, no matter how big or small, it has been really important to us and the creative community."
And Shelby has one final holiday message for everyone:
"Happy Holidays and please support your creative community this giving season!"
Make Lemon Street Part of Your Holiday Plans!
Whether you're searching for a handmade gift, looking for a fun holiday activity, or simply want to experience the creativity of Kenosha's local artists, Lemon Street Gallery & ArtSpace is worth a visit.
And remember, supporting the gallery isn't just about purchasing artwork. Attending a class, participating in an event, making a donation, or spreading the word all help keep Kenosha's creative community growing.
This holiday season, give something with a little extra meaning. Give local. Give handmade. Give art!
Here's to a holiday season filled with creativity, kindness, and a whole lot of local love!
Learn more about Lemon Street Gallery & ArtSpace
4601 Sheridan Road, Kenosha, WI
Holiday Shopping Hours: November 28–December 24, daily, 11 AM–5 PM
Artistree Giftable Art Show: November 28–December 24
Café, Crafting, and Christmas: Saturday, December 12, 11 AM–9 PM
Learn about the classroom renovation project:
https://www.lemonstreetgallery.org/classroom-renovation
