I’ve got a new studio!!!
Phew! I went for more than two months without a place to stretch out and get dirty, and I think that’s about my limit. Toward the end there I did pick up some watercolors, sumi ink, and pens for some 2D explorations from my desk at home. That was actually an incredibly good idea, for it has spawned a line of cards and revealed the potential for a whole new body of work (more on that soon).
But now I’m settling in to my new space at The Swimming Hole, a collective in NE Portland, on NE 42nd near Alberta Ct (5120 NE 42nd, to be precise). It’s a modest space, but with a lot of great mojo…we are currently eight women working in clay, glass, and metal. We each have different backgrounds and goals, but all have a love for making gorgeous things with our hands. I think it could be the perfect first stop, out of the gates from grad school, in establishing my professional practice.
And this weekend we’re having an open studio, as part of the 42nd Avenue Makers’ Faire. Portland is a mecca for makers, that’s for sure, and many of these creative entrepreneurs have been settling in along NE 42nd Avenue, contributing to the blossoming of neighborhoods adjoining this street, like the Cully neighborhood (which also has a pretty awesome cycle track up and down Cully Blvd). The faire and our open studio runs from noon-6 p.m. this coming Saturday, August 23rd. Most of us will have wares for sale out front, and tours of our studios will be available upon request. The weather will be hot and sunny, and the organizers of the Faire have lots of other fun activities and music on tap (bouncy castle!!). I’ve included more information from the business association below, including links to musicians set to perform that day.
This year’s 42nd Avenue signature event is a Makers’ Faire. Although we will continue the spirit of the Street Fair with entertainment, a beer garden, foots ball, and a bouncy house, this year will emphasize the identity of our district: making goods and providing services.
Like the guilds of old, the makers on 42nd Avenue serve their community by honoring their craft. Whether its furniture, signs, charcuterie, bread, pastries, metal objects, printed material, fancy cars, healthy teeth, bikes, ice cream, employment, beverages, a place to gather, or obedient dogs, making good and services is our commonality.
From noon to 6 p.m., Faire participants can go behind the scenes, into businesses to meet the owners and staff. Get an insider’s view of businesses through tours, classes, contests, giveaways, and tastings. Our scavenger hunt can qualify you for prize drawings. As a business district, we are excited to share with our neighbors the view from the other side of the counter.
Between activities, enjoy amazing live music and booths.
12-2 PM: James Clem: Oldtimy country and blues
2-4 PM: BrassRoots Movement: New Orleans Stand Up Brass Band
4-6 PM: Jalani and the Secret Five Gospel and Soul
If you are a Maker and would like to be a vendor at the Makers’ Faire please email Myo at
cullyfarmersmarket@gmail.com and she will send you an application.
slcdavis.com 