Movin' On Up (or Down)

When I moved to North Carolina eight years ago, my family and I visited Artspace. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that four years later, I would have a studio space within the centerpiece of Downtown Raleigh's vibrant art scene.

Four years ago, I was juried into Artspace. About two months later, I moved into the building, sharing Studio 217 with fabulous fiber artist Sharron Parker. When I first moved into Artspace, I was first exploring image transfer techniques on polymer clay. Over the last four years, partially inspired by the creative energy that surrounds me, I have ventured into metal clay, enameling, porcelain, and mixed media. In the process, I have outgrown my shared studio space.

So, this month, marks my last days in Studio 217. As of the middle of July, I will be moving into my own studio, on the first floor of Artspace in Studio 109A. The new studio has been the office of Raleigh Ensemble Players (REP) for over 10 years. REP is moving to 213 Fayetteville Street, becoming a visible resident fully invested in the Downtown Raleigh renaissance.

Although I welcome the opportunity to put my mark on a studio space of my own, I will miss Sharron Parker. She is one of the original Artspace Studio Artists, having been in the building since the beginning (that's over 20 years). She has been a friend and ally for the last four years, and I will miss her company. I wish fiber artist Addison Paige of Raven Rock Artworks the very best in Studio 217. She will be surrounded by the creative energy of not only Sharron, but also of Linda Ruth Dickinson, Max Halpern, and another newcomer to Artspace, Shaun Richards. I hope Addison will be as happy as I have been at the end of the second floor of Artspace.

I must admit that I am a little nervous leaving the comfortable (and messy) nest I have made for myself in Studio 217. Converting Raleigh Ensemble Players office into an art studio and showcase for my jewelry presents its challenges, but I know in the long run it will be well worth it.

So, come visit me for my last First Friday in Studio 217, this Friday, July 3rd, and be sure to mark your calendar for August 7th, my first First Friday in Studio 109A. I look forward to seeing your there!