Lafayette business gets statewide award

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - A Lafayette business less than a year old is already getting some statewide recognition.

Red Poppy Studio and Gallery at Eighth and Main streets has been awarded one of 10 Edge awards for emerging businesses. It's sponsored by the Small Business Development Centers, part of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Red Poppy owner Joanna Retherford opened some art classrooms in May. Then in August, she opened the tea house and art gallery in the front. She also rents out the space for special events.

"It was a surprise and an honor and a shock, but grateful and honored, humbled at the same time," said Retherford. "Even people that don't think they know a lot about art are wandering into the tea house and really enjoying the artwork. They are finding themselves signing up for classes that they never knew they wanted to do. It's just fun to watch the joy when they come out."

Red Poppy showcases 11 artists including three local ones.

The gallery changes every two months in coordination with the Third Friday events downtown.