Women of Niagara Art Installation

In November 2023, the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area unveiled a public art installation titled "Women of Niagara" at the former Jenss Department Store on Main Street. This remarkable project, funded by the New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative, showcases 86 artworks by renowned local artist Polly King.

Polly's portraits offer an artistic anthropological glimpse into the diverse community of Niagara Falls, with 74 of these portraits adorning the windows of the Jenss building. In addition to the physical installation, an interactive digital version on discoverniagara.org allows you to learn about the featured Portrait Ladies, as they’ve been named, with information provided through the extensive research of Polly’s friend Sandra Rutkowski.

Standing majestically at 1708 Main Street, the Jenss Department Store building embodies the city's rich commercial heritage. Constructed in 1916, the building, once hailed as the "grand old lady of Main Street," served as the flagship store for the Jenss Brothers Department Store chain, a prominent local retailer for nearly eight decades. Its five floors brimmed with an enticing array of merchandise, from apparel and home goods to toys and cosmetics, catering to the needs of both Niagara Falls residents and tourists alike. 

The store's closure in 1995 marked a significant loss for the city's retail landscape, but the building's legacy endures, its architectural grandeur and historical significance preserved for future generations. For a city that has lost so much of its built history to urban renewal, efforts like the one undertaken by the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area highlight the importance of preservation.

The "Women of Niagara" installation seamlessly blends the Jenss building's rich history with Polly King's artistic vision. The portraits, painted by King over the course of her life, capture the essence of Niagara Falls women during the 20th century. Each portrait tells a unique story, revealing the challenges and triumphs of women's lives in this once vibrant and dynamic city. The installation not only serves as a tribute to these remarkable women but also revitalizes the Jenss building, transforming it into a vibrant hub of art and cultural engagement.

Each portrait offers a chance to connect with the lives of these women and the broader history of Niagara Falls. The installation serves as a reminder of the enduring strength and resilience of Niagara Falls women, who have played a pivotal role in shaping the city's identity. It is a testament to the power of art to connect communities, preserve heritage, and inspire future generations. Through art, the Jenss building has been transformed into a living legacy.

To learn more about Polly King and her artwork, visit pollykingstudio.com and discoverniagara.org

Sara Capen