From uncovering a path that led to a full-time painting career to opening a new studio, this Elk Rapids native is celebrating Northern Michigan in the most colorful way.
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For contemporary landscape artist Lindy Bishop, art is all about celebrating the features that define a region. “For me, sense of place is important,” she says. “What I like to paint is right outside the door.”
A hands-on maker since childhood, the Elk Rapids native was raised by an artist mother before setting out on the “Rubik’s Cube” path that led to a full-time painting career. “It’s a long story,” she explains with a laugh. It’s one that took countless detours through other fields, from economic development and entrepreneurship to marketing and communications.
Despite those detours, Bishop always found time to paint. Her colorful résumé includes the mentorship of acclaimed Swedish artist Lars-Birger Sponberg, residencies in Costa Rica and Spain and gallery shows throughout Michigan and beyond.
Her newest work is Studio Y: a workshop-meets-residential space in Yuba.
“It’s like a journey back in time,” Bishop says. “Most people think there’s nothing going on in rural spaces, but for me, there’s everything going on.”
So named for the township’s first initial— and the link between creativity and asking questions—the project began in February 2022, when Bishop discovered the blighted building, which once housed the Yuba Trading Post, was for sale.
Since then, Bishop and a team of friends and neighbors have stripped the place down to its studs, breathing new life into a landmark structure. Inside it’s home to the reconstructed cinder-block art-filled work space, with living quarters attached. Bishop plans to list the space as a short-term rental and to host other artists. To view Bishop’s work this winter, schedule an appointment; there will be regular open hours for the public this summer.
Studio Y | 9440 US-31 N. | Williamsburg | Lindy Bishop Website
Anna Faller is a Traverse City-based freelance writer and interviewer with a passion for good books, great food and Michigan travel. annacfaller@gmail.com
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