Auto Value invites local artists to paint ceiling tiles in community art project

Glencoe’s Auto Value store has turned its ceiling into a community art gallery. Manager Bobby Paulson recently invited local artists to paint ceiling tiles with automotive-themed designs — a creative effort aimed at connecting the business more closely with the community.

Paulson said the idea came after noticing that many local residents didn’t seem to recognize Auto Value during this summer’s Glencoe Days parade. “We were handing out bottled water labeled ‘customer coolant,’ and people were asking when we were opening,” he said. “We’ve been here for years, so I realized we needed to do more to engage with the community and make Auto Value a name people recognize.”

To encourage participation, Paulson posted an online ad asking artists to decorate one of the store’s ceiling tiles. Painters could interpret the automotive theme in their own style, and each participant received a hat, keychain, and a bottle of “customer coolant.” Names were also entered in a prize drawing for an Auto Value gift pack.

The finished tiles will be installed in the store’s ceiling, turning the sales floor into a rotating exhibit of local creativity. “Anyone can come in and see the artwork,” Paulson said. “We’re open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 1225 Hennepin Avenue North.”

The project also drew the involvement of Glencoe-Silver Lake High School’s art club, whose members painted a car design on the store’s restroom door. Paulson said he wanted to support young artists and encourage creative expression, adding that art and band were the two subjects he enjoyed most in school.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. “Our upper management noticed,” Paulson said. “They were so impressed they talked about having other stores do something similar.”

Paulson hopes to keep the project going. Local artists interested in participating are welcome to stop by the store to pick up a ceiling tile to paint — no deadline required. “We’ve got plenty of tiles left,” he said. “Anyone who wants to add their touch to Auto Value is welcome.”