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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rosenthal Interiors' Downtown Minneapolis Space Transformed into Unique Gallery of Collectors' Items

Minneapolis, MN – April 7, 2024 – Rosenthal Interiors, a cherished institution in downtown Minneapolis, has undergone a remarkable transformation under the guidance of Rosie Rosenthal, its fourth-generation owner. Once a haven for high-end contemporary furniture, the historic space has now evolved into an extraordinary gallery showcasing a treasure trove of collectors' items from the estate of Babs Lebewitz, aTectionately known as "Horde: The Collections of Laverne Wylie."

Rosie Rosenthal, inheritor of the family business, faced a daunting task after her mother's passing in April 2020. Babs Lebewitz, a renowned collector, had amassed a staggering collection of over 2 million objects, ranging from peculiar curiosities to valuable artifacts. "My house started to close in from all the things," Rosenthal recalled, describing the overwhelming array of dolls, trinkets, and statues that had overtaken their family home.

Determined to honor her mother's legacy while bidding farewell to the burdensome accumulation, Rosenthal embarked on a journey to liquidate the inventory. Collaborating with Michael Andersen aka Butch Lacroix, a visionary designer from New York, Rosenthal's downtown Minneapolis location has been reborn as a gallery space that encapsulates the essence of four generations of Minneapolis wealth.

Lacroix, the mastermind behind the gallery's conception, aptly named it after Babs Lebewitz's pseudonym, 'Laverne Wylie”, a name she used to be incognito at auctions around the world. "We're liquidating the hoard, and I guess the end of the Rosenthal legacy," Lacroix remarked, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of the endeavor.

"Horde: The Collections of Laverne Wylie" oTers a mesmerizing glimpse into a bygone era, featuring an eclectic array of artifacts, including a human hair doll, hundreds of bronze and brass pieces, Asian antiquities, and needlepoint pieces in frames and as pillows. Babs made over 1000 needlepoints in her lifetime. Amethyst grapes, a nautilus chicken and a compact from Marie Antoinette’s court are among the many one-of-a-kind items Butch came across having gone through hundreds of boxes over the span of 2 months. There is an installation dedicated to Babs with the old Rosenthal newspaper ads of which she was the star. They are hilarious and a little racy, The Star Tribune tried to censor her!

Remarkably, the gallery extends its philanthropic reach beyond the confines of its walls. Ivory items will find a new purpose with The World Wildlife Federation as educational tools, while a Hawksbill Sea turtle shell will support turtle rescue eTorts through educational purposes as well. Additionally, a slave figurine will be donated to the Jim Crow Museum of Racist Imagery, contributing to the preservation of history and culture. All of these are on display to educate people and are the only items not for sale in the 9,000 ft space which also has luxury contemporary furniture as Andersen acquired the remainder of the Rosenthal furniture as well as the horde.

The gallery is open to the public and oTering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore these remarkable collections. Private appointments can also be arranged through Butch Lacroix at r22gallerypls@gmail.com They are dedicated to adding something a little diTerent to the Minneapolis social scene, a place to check out after dinner or for happy hour as well and the windows are lit up beautifully for passers-by on the rail or fans leaving a game at target center. Art is for everyone.

As Rosie Rosenthal bids farewell to the downtown space that has been synonymous with her family's legacy for decades, she does so with a sense of anticipation for the future. "At least not yet," she remarks, reflecting on her impending retirement. With plans to indulge in her passions for horseback riding and golfing, Rosenthal looks forward to embracing a new chapter of leisure and philanthropy.

The Rosenthal Interiors building, steeped in history and memories, will soon be seeking new stewards as it prepares to grace the market in the coming weeks. For those who have cherished its presence over the years, it remains a symbol of resilience and reinvention in the heart of downtown Minneapolis.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Michael Andersen aka Butch Lacroix R22gallerypls@gmail.com
646-584-8443

About Rosenthal Interiors:

Founded in 1955, Rosenthal Interiors has been a cornerstone of downtown Minneapolis, oTering discerning clientele exquisite contemporary furniture and timeless design solutions. With a commitment to quality and craftsmanship, Rosenthal Interiors has left an indelible mark on the city's design landscape, embodying a legacy of style and sophistication.