In a bid to invigorate the local art scene, two passionate artists have joined forces to launch a new art gallery in Sioux Falls. Norse Art Space, a contemporary gallery, is the brainchild of Cody Henrichs and Joe Schaeffer, who have transitioned from colleagues to friends through their shared vision.

"Our goal is to highlight artists who are making significant and thought-provoking contributions to the contemporary art landscape in the Midwest," Henrichs explained. The gallery is situated in the lower level of the Norse Building, located at the intersection of Phillips Avenue and 39th Street.

The inception of the gallery began when building owner Paul Gourley, while exploring ideas for the space, connected with Ivy Oland Dandar, one of the gallery's featured artists. Dandar then introduced him to Schaeffer. "The space was previously an underutilized conference and work room," Gourley noted. "I aim to find the highest and best use of space, and in this case, we achieved it."

Constructed by Paulsen Advertising in the 1960s, the building was later owned by the family behind Red Stangland’s renowned Norwegian Ole and Lena joke books. In homage to its Norwegian heritage, it is named the Norse Building. Gourley’s property management and real estate office occupies the main floor.

To enhance the building's facade, Gourley commissioned an art piece in 2022 and has continued to commission new works from local artists approximately every six months. His collaboration with Schaeffer began when he requested a commissioned piece in late 2023.

"Through that collaboration, Paul expressed interest in establishing an art space in the lower level," Schaeffer recounted. "At the time, it was unfinished, and he discussed painting walls and adding trim while keeping it minimal." Thus, Norse Art Space was born.

During this process, Schaeffer partnered with Henrichs, the former lead curator at the Washington Pavilion. The gallery opened its doors in November, aiming to shift the local perception of art from mere decor to collectible contemporary pieces, akin to those found in larger metropolitan areas.

"We envision filling a significant gap in the market, which we believe is currently vacant," Henrichs stated. "Our aim is to represent and promote collectible contemporary art." The duo believes the city needs more art spaces to foster a vibrant art community.

"Existing art spaces are essential and contribute to the broader art community," Schaeffer added. "We aim to introduce an additional element that allows people to engage with art in a thoughtful and intuitive manner." The for-profit gallery plans to host four exhibitions annually.

Gourley expressed his support, saying, "What Joe Schaeffer and the team at Norse Art Space are doing fills a gap for artists in the community and has great potential to connect people with exceptional art." Henrichs emphasized, "Everything we do is of museum caliber, directly promoting the artist."

The current exhibition, "Back to Essence," is available by appointment only through mid-January. It features works by Schaeffer, Henrichs, and nine other local artists, including Wes Eisenhauser, Rick Johns, Ceca Cooper, Cory Knedler, Eli Show, Angela Zonunpari, Young Ae Kim, Ivy Oland Dandar, and Keith Braveheart.

"We engage with everyone who books an appointment, discussing the artists and their work, why we believe their work is collectible, and its significance in the region," Schaeffer explained. "This initiative aims to elevate the artists we consider to be making significant contributions. Over time, we hope to build an educational component for potential collectors."

The next exhibition is set to open in February. Schaeffer and Henrichs already have plans for future shows, envisioning how they will utilize the space for years to come. "Every time I walk down and turn on the lights, it’s exhilarating," Schaeffer shared. "The space is energized by the artwork, which is an extension of the artist."

"It offers immense possibilities, and we hope visitors will feel the same energy." For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit Norse Art Space online.