From Greg Busceme, TASI Director
The gas heaters return to collecting dust for the next nine months as we go into the warm days of summer, looking forward to enjoying the toasty respite from a chilly, wet winter.
As far as a “State of The Studio” report goes, we are in a stable state of existence. We are spending less on operations and earning more from sales.
We have all spaces rented to 20 artists in residence, along with a couple of intermediates.
Classes have revived after a four-year slump, as is evidenced by the Life Drawing class and the work of individual teachers.
Although not to 1990s levels, classes are showing a good comeback for young people and adults, as interest outweighs economics and stimulus outweighs boredom.
Band Nites are showing modest but steady gains with expected increases in enthusiasm, reflected in a new crew in charge of the event. As always bands must play their own original music, and this is the draw we depend on for innovative and unique presentations.
Young musicians see The Studio as a rite of passage for their band.
Because of this, and the potential for future members, Band Nite is one of our strongest assets for the inovation of new music and the investment in the interests of young people. If you haven’t been to a Band Nite lately, you owe it to yourself to go.
Art exhibitions are the only events that did not go through a slump as participation seems to peak during especially tough times economically. This is attributable to the lack of weekend travel and a lack of funds. Art exhibitions, as an event, open the door to people looking for cheap family activities.
Art sales have been considerably better than average and has held to that trend after the new year. I account for this in light of a buy local mindset and other economic conditions.
We continue to work on our facility, but we must make some key decisions on what to build and for what function. Near future- — a covered deck out back of the clay studio would really help with the Studio congestion we are suffering.
Further in the future — a metal fabricated facility divided into one part warehouse/ metal works, one part performance space.
While I’m dreaming — A/C everywhere and new bathrooms, too.
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