History
A leader in the West Michigan art scene for the past twenty years, the gallery has achieved several awards and national recognition for exceptional artwork, progressive ideas, and innovative programming. LaFontsee Galleries/Underground Studio currently carries over fifty artists, the goal being not only to sell artwork but to facilitate an understanding and appreciation for it as well.
Building on the strength of a solid partnership, Scott and Linda LaFontsee founded the Underground Studio in 1987. Over the years, they established themselves as forerunners of the emerging art culture in West Michigan, expanding their vision in 1994 by developing LaFontsee Galleries. Today, LaFontsee Galleries/Underground Studio encompasses two floors and 18,000 square feet of a renovated riverfront warehouse in the Monroe North Business district. With a welcoming, open environment, the gallery is devoted to personal service and fine regional, national, and international art with a soul.
Through a fervent dedication to promoting the arts, the gallery contributes considerable time, energy, and resources to various community events and non-profit organizations including the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, Frey Foundation, Gilda's Club, Nokomis Foundation, Very Special Arts, and God's Kitchen. They have made a palpable impact on both the cultural community and the general public with their benefit art auctions and nationally recognized Artists Talk series. With an enduring commitment to professional and artistic integrity, LaFontsee Galleries/Underground Studio is proud to be a significant provider of art in the Midwest.
