Two new attractions have recently been added to the Benton Harbor Arts District, according to one of its biggest and earliest supporters and entrepreneurs. Ken Ankli owns and is the developer of the former Brammel Building on Water Street. Ken tells us a pilates studio and a gallery have recently opened at 196 Water Street.
Specializing in helping adults of all ages and fitness levels build strength, flexibility and balance, HARBOR PILATES now occupies a spacious studio at 196 Water Street in Benton Harbor. The custom-designed space was built to accommodate 12 new Pilates reformers (full range-of-motion resistance machines) and opened in September. Individualized instruction is provided by Harbor Pilates staff, including owner Nancy Mattner, a former dance and theater instructor at the Creative Arts Academy who began teaching Pilates in 2014.
“I’m thrilled to open our beautiful studio here in the center of Benton Harbor’s dynamic arts community. Our classes are designed for beginners, as well as advanced practitioners. Both men and women ranging in age from 14 to 75 years work out with us once or multiple times a week to achieve their fitness goals.”
On Friday, October 18, guests are invited to an Open House to tour the facility and enjoy refreshments and light snacks with other members of the community. The staff will offer informal demonstrations of how Pilates reformers are used and answer questions.
“Reformers are easy and fun to use once one understands how resistance works to the enhance the outcomes of exercise,” Nancy says. The first class at HARBOR PILATES is only $10 and the cost of additional sessions is significantly less than one would spend for a trainer at an athletic club.
A New Gallery Opens…
The lobby at 196 Water Street is also home to Benton Harbor’s newest art gallery, The Space In-Between, dedicated to showcasing the works of area artists.
Currently on display is Cardboard Artist, a delightful series of twelve-by-twelve-inch cardboard collages by South Haven artist Dorris Akers. All of the collages incorporate found objects, including small cardboard boxes.
“I like found objects, and I see much of the world as fodder for my aesthetic fancies,” Akers said.
The Space-In-Between adds to Benton Harbor’s standing as a center for visual and performance art.
To request a tour of the gallery, please call 269-861-0030.
