Artisan store opens its doors

Photo: Colton Davies

A new storefront in downtown Penticton that supports local artisans opened its doors on Friday, and is holding a formal grand opening gala Friday night.

Mondo Creation, located at 221 Main Street, includes studio and office spaces, a kitchen and a gallery for local artisans and entrepreneurs. The storefront has room for about 75 people at a time.

Owner Lisa Lauzé moved to Penticton 18 months ago said she was amazed by the amount of artists in the community. 

"More interesting to me than that was all the conversations with people who said 'I'd really like to start a catering business', or 'I'd really to teach a workshop,'" Lauzé said.

"I have that kind of experience and resources and connections. And I thought if I put it together in a physical space, it removes a lot of the obstacles and hurdles."

Friday night's opening includes an art display, wine tasting, food, music and more amenities.

The public is able to drop in for the opening from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Lauzé said Mondo will be holding monthly galas with different themes — similar to the tone of Friday's opening.  

Mondo's website, which was launched on Thursday, can be found here.