A Wild Rose grows downtown

Wild Rose Artisans Gallery and Boutique celebrates the talents of local artisans as they pour their hearts into creating their masterpieces. The store is at 115 North Sixth St., in downtown Springfield, just across from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. There you are invited to a shopping experience that embraces creativity and supports gifted artisans.

When entering the store, you feel and see creativity. Products include vintage clothing, original artwork, prints, pottery, a variety of purses, cute stuffed animals, beautiful stained glass, mugs, coasters, stationery, wood crafted items, pottery, home goods, skin care products, several types of handcrafted jewelry, and gift items for males, females and children. There is only one artisan allowed per type of product. Wild Rose promotes and highlights an artisan each month on various social media platforms.

Diverse cultures are represented by the artisans currently showcasing their creations at the Wild Rose Artisans Gallery and Boutique. They include Mexican, Korean, Chilean and American.

Monica Zanetti moved to Springfield from Alameda, California, with her family. While growing up in Alameda, she developed a love for the many bazaars and various marketplaces that showcased the work of various artisans. She began creating artwork while in college, but family and work temporarily took her away from the craft she loved. Eventually she began painting and selling her vibrant, colorful artistic compositions.

Monica is a multitalented individual who wears many hats. As a devoted mother, activist and artist, Monica's mission is to inspire others through her art. She has proudly called Springfield her home for the past six years.

In the fall of 2019, Monica realized a lifelong dream when she became the owner of Wild Rose, a renowned art studio turned retail shop in Springfield. This venture has not only provided a platform for over 20 local artists to showcase and sell their work but has also allowed Monica to support the arts and her community in new ways. Monica loves partnering with other small businesses and actively gives back to the community that has embraced her.

Monica expresses her community commitment by hosting fundraisers, donating to various nonprofit organizations and sponsoring various events. Adjacent to Wild Rose is a community room where Monica has hosted art classes, sound bowl classes, spoken word events and Mexican heritage celebrations that showcase her Hispanic heritage. A terrarium workshop was held there, where participants designed their own terrarium. This space is available to organizations and individuals to use for classes or events.

"This is an amazing shop," says one of her devoted clients. "The owner is very personable and works hard. Monica is dedicated to her community and is willing to work with all who want to thrive in a creative environment."

Monica's accolades include the Susana Mendoza Award for Hispanic Heritage Month. Mendoza, the state comptroller, wrote: "Your commitment and dedication to your work have earned you both respect and success and have created tangible, meaningful contributions to your community. Your devotion to the development of opportunities and growth for future generations makes you a shining example for all to emulate." 

Monica's artistic journey has seen her work featured in prestigious locations, including San Francisco's historic City Hall, the National Museum of Mexican Art Gift Shop, Sacred Art and her very own shop in Springfield. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Monica also serves as a member of the board of directors for Memorial Foundation, Women Entrepreneurs of Central Illinois and Downtown Springfield Inc., tirelessly working to make a positive impact on her community.

Passionate about showcasing her Latin culture, Monica infuses her store and the community with its vibrant essence. Recently, she brought the joyous melodies of a mariachi singer to Springfield's Summer Levitt AMP Concert Series, spreading cultural richness and delight to all who attended.

Shopping at Wild Rose Artisans Gallery and Boutique is an experience like none other. It is exciting to explore a store with so many hand-crafted items that cannot be found in a chain department store. The eclectic styles showcase a broad range of diverse offerings. Shopping at Wild Rose not only provides an opportunity to purchase a one-of-a kind item but supports local artisans in their entrepreneurial endeavors.

This article originally appeared in the summer 2024 edition of ReGeneration.