The old West Sioux Furniture store was converted into the West Sioux Artist Co-op.

Lydie and John Sweets opened the co-op earlier this summer at 2300 W. Madison St.

They wanted to transform the building from a primarily empty storage space into something more.

“We now have a place for local artists and artisans to exhibit their art… and we have plenty of room for more artists,” said Lydie Sweets.

The Sweets have already planned a coffee and food truck for the grand opening next month.

“We’re just making sure it works for our developers, but we’ve already invited vendors and hope it’s a big and exciting event,” Sweets said.

John Sweets was very artistically gifted and this was part of his inspiration for the business, his wife said.

“When we found this building, John thought it would be the perfect location for us,” Sweets said. “Our family owns this building and the venue next door, so it will be a great addition to our events.”

The couple began creating the West Sioux Artist Co-op about a year ago. Sweets said friends and family have been invaluable to the process and events have helped them raise money.

Sweets said she considers herself more of a “tinkerer,” and by combining it with her husband’s artistic endeavors, the space welcomes both crafters and artists.

“I sew, make tote bags, do screen printing and beadwork,” Sweets said. “We have paintings here from different artists. … We have sculptures, furniture, decor and much more.”

Sweets said the main goal is to “give all artists and creators a chance to showcase their art.”

The Sweets plan to use the venue for classes and events. With ample parking for customers and space inside, the West Sioux Artist Co-op is perfect for a variety of activities, according to Sweets.

“We’re planning events as long as it’s nice outside,” Sweets said. “We’re still looking for vendors and are just happy to let people know we’re open and here.”

The plan is to hold a grand opening ceremony sometime in September.