by Greg Busceme, Sr.
Executive Director of The Art Studio, Inc.
This month is a more practical approach to my musings. We have so many things happening – good and not-so-good. Let’s go to the not-so-good first. A few weeks ago, I walked into the Studio to a dystopian scene where lights were dim and the LED bulbs were half on and half off. It seems the ground wire for our sector had come loose. This caused a brown out that we found very possibly blew our fire alarm system! We have submitted a request for assistance to Entergy and we hope we get help there. Even before this discovery, we had unrelated trouble with our refrigerator failing and were able to replace it with a new one. The same week our V A/C went out with a blown compressor motor and a worn out blower to the tune of $1254.34. No estimates on the fire alarm yet. We can get the A/C and fire alarm back online but if money is burning a hole in your pocket or you have been waiting to fund a project or renew your membership, wait no more!! Asking any help to cope with these unusual circumstances.
Better news!!
As of this writing, the metal roofs on the D.J. Kava Annex (840 Franklin) and the clay studios (metal part of the main building) are being completely redone. Not only waterproofing but insulated as well! We have this opportunity because of the good graces of the estate of Mr. D.J. Kava and a challenge grant through Edaren Foundation. Together we raised enough for the original bid of $45,000. With material costs rising so fast, there will be additional expenses for which we do have some funds, but it may take some additional financing as well. We are thrilled to have this happen. Now begins the repair of the main brick building and it will take north of $100,000. “Raise the Roof” is the capital campaign we began to start the fundraising for these crucial projects. Thanks to everyone who has added to your membership toward that goal; it has made a significant difference in where we are now. Visibility is the thing right now and keeping us on the front burner. Even better news! More of you love us more than ever. Yes, from our usual 250-275 we are now at a record 373 members! Sorry for the exclamation points but this is incredible!!! A big “thank you” to our community for building on our successes and giving us the opportunity to serve our beloved artists!
Great news!!!
Save these dates – July 6,7,8 – for the triumphal return of the GUMBO CLAYFEST 2022. This festival is all about the clay and the people who love it. Highly knowledgeable ceramists from across the nation will descend on Southeast Texas and will share their ideas and special techniques to participants along with clay activities, panel discussions, presentations, and parties! Great for anyone who has an interest in clay and for artists from other disciplines. For any young or beginning aspirant it is a must do! De rigueur! You will advance your knowledge years ahead of where you are! Some of these artists I have known for many years and others are more recent friends; all are eager to come to our community and I hope hope hope you want to meet them too. It will mean a lot to me to have everyone come meet and learn from these generous ceramists and friends.
Look these guys up:
- Gary “Greeny” Greenberg, Clarion University
- Patsy Cox, UCLA, Northridge
- Stephen Wolochwicz, Webber State University, Ogden Utah
- Danielle Weigandt, University of North Dakota, Grand forks, ND
- Steve Erickson, NY, NY
- Chris Leonard, South Texas State College, McAllen, Texas
- and possibly more!
The Art Studio: bringing knowledge to your door.