Hopeful
Hope has holes in its pockets. It leaves little crumb trails so that we, when anxious, can follow it. Hope’s secret: it doesn’t know the destination - it only knows that all roads begin with one foot in front of the other. ~ Rosemary Wahtola Trommer
One of my motivations for opening a physical space for Lil Fish Studios was the hope that it would help people connect and build community with each other. I think that’s something that art can do. I used to see it at the nonprofit, people from all walks of life connecting over a shared appreciation for the arts. Finely dressed women of a certain age and social standing, talking about the art on the wall with a barefoot tattoo artist with dreads.
Side by side, looking forward.
I’m seeing that same thing happen during the gatherings in my space. It seems that every group that comes in, no matter how small, finds common ground. A few weeks ago it was a few of us playing with paint over a $5 canvas from the thrift store. Last week it was a group carving eraser stamps. Everyone was rushing around at the end of the project asking “will you stamp my book?”, swapping phone numbers, and walking out laughing with each other as if they’d known each other for ages.
Nothing major. Not earth-shattering. Just humans making connections. And that feels hopeful.
The studio is open on Thursday nights. This week there isn’t a formal project, but the door will be open in case you want to stop in and visit, or pick up some wool. Only the side door (marked South Door) to the building is open so park on Kingwood and come in that way.
The second Thursday of the month will be Open Studio from 6:00-8:00. Bring your own project or play with materials I have out.
The third Thursday of the month I am hosting Third Space Thursdays with the Sowing Room. We’re learning Drag Makeup 101 in April. The event is free, but you’ll need to sign up with The Sowing Room on their Facebook page or website.
I am very excited to announce that the lovely and talented Patricia Lintner will be holding a workshop in the studio on May 2nd. She is one of the kindest, most supportive teachers I have had the pleasure to work with. You’ll love her teaching style and the fun project, guaranteed. Class size is limited so sign up soon. Tickets are in my online shop.
I have been enjoying working on some simple linoleum block carving projects. You may see a whole bounty of garden-themed prints popping up as some fun plans come together. I’ll have more to share in the coming weeks. Until then!
Thank you for reading. I appreciate you.
Lisa