The Brown County Art Guild is receiving its first big renovation in nearly 50 years. Patrons can expect to see new structural pieces from local artisans, lighting fixtures, improved storage areas, a staff office, interior windows and much more display area.

“We want to embrace what it was when they renovated it in 1976,” outgoing Executive Director Andra Walters said. “It was time (now) to improve storage systems and humidity control. We needed to protect the stored art.”

Walters also said that the Guild is trying to bring its standards up to code. She explained that previously, the Guild did not have a handicap accessible bathroom and it was very important that they renovate the bathroom this time around.

Walters said that she knows that a large concern for people is that the Guild will lose its character and integrity in the renovation, but the interior and exterior will feel the same. She said it will feel like the same place, but there will be subtle improvements.

Patrons can also expect to see a new face around the Art Guild. Sean Hildreth will be transitioning into the Executive Director position replacing Walters when she retires.

Hildreth worked as the Marketing, Communication and Outreach Officer at the Community Foundation before moving to the Art Guild.

“It’s kind of bittersweet but I’m the one who wants to retire,” Walters said. “It’s time for me to retire and it’s the perfect time. I’m so excited for Sean. I’m absolutely sure that Sean can take the helm and keep making progress. I have experience in nonprofit management and fundraising. The marketing has happened because it had to. It’s not my area of expertise, this is where I believe Sean has some skills I don’t have.”

Hildreth has nonprofit expertise and experience in fundraising and marketing.

Walters’ relationship with the Guild began in 2005 and she began working as the Executive Director six years ago. When she stepped into her position she knew that it needed stability and a bolstering finish. Six years later, she is finally able to see that come to fruition.

“I have been tied to this organization for a long time, it’s more than just a job,” Walters said through emotions. “I care about it and the legacy of the Guild.”

Walters said that the Art Guild is one of the cornerstones to the Artist Colony History.

“I’m really most excited about opening the doors again,” Hildreth said. “Being able to see people come in the doors again. Transitioning in when the doors are closed is such a different experience. I am excited to finally get to see the people. Also there has been an excellent group of artists that have welcomed me. Meeting the artists, getting to meet all the artists I haven’t had the pleasure to meet yet and finding out why they love to make art. Andra built an amazing team, so I am feeling great.”

They are hoping to reopen the Art Guild in April but will be having their Platinum Jubilee Celebration to celebrate the re-opening and 70 years at the Art Guild on May 5 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“We are celebrating 70 years of artistic excellence with the same artistic quality.” Walters said.

Walters said the money to fund the renovations was primarily from independent donors. The leading donors for the campaign were Sara and John Lechleiter.

“They are a couple who come to Brown County. Their presence is here more and more and they feel strongly about the community and supporting historic arts. They actually made it all possible, we would not have raised as much as we did without them.” Walters said.

Hildreth is looking forward to helping artists tell their stories at the Guild, and believes that they will be able to display and sell more art with the new renovations.

“So many artists have stories about why they started making art. I want to help artists tell their stories and sell their art. I’m really kind of trying to build consensus and collaboration for the artists. We have a lot of great artists here, I want to tell their story and help them market.”