The Nonesuch Gallery is Ontonagon’s “not to be missed” shop for all things artistic and uniquely made. Home to handcrafted items showcasing Michigan artists and located in downtown Ontonagon in a historic 1916 building, the shop is owned and run by Edna and Brad Yonker—both of whom are talented artists in their own right.
“The name of our shop says it well. We have two levels for visitors to browse items made by talented artists,” Edna said.
Edna is an award-winning, hand quilter, having quilted for more than 20 years before opening the gallery in 2001. Visitors can get lost in the beautiful intricacy of her many quilted items. They can also view the permanent display of her “Living a Dream” quilt—a piece inspired by her life in the U.P. and nationally awarded from The All American Quilt Competition and featured in the documentary “Quilting in the ‘90s” for the Library of Congress Folk Life Center.
Edna and Brad are partners in life and work. “I am just so thankful to have found each other,” Edna said. Together, they have created a haven to offer something interesting, fun and useful for everyone. The main floor showcases Edna’s quilt-art and other textile art, along with creations that include home decorations and furniture, antler chandeliers, jewelry, and Michigan grown blueberry products. Visitors can also discover locally roasted coffee beans, handcrafted dips, mixes, lotions, soaps, boxes and so much more. There is always something new to see. That’s why shoppers keep coming back for the next splendid find.
The lower level is a splendor as well. Brad displays and sells his handmade guitars, many handcrafted from local wood alongside a large collection of new and used acoustic instruments for sale as well as accessories for the instruments.
Edna and Brad like to make sure that everyone who enters the shop feels as welcome as a longtime friend.
“The best part of owning the gallery is meeting so many interesting people,” Edna explained. “Everyone has a story. I love that.”
