Live out Loud
“If you ask me what I came to do in this world, I, an artist, will answer you: I am here to live out loud. “ ~ Émile Zola
The very first open studio in my new space was more than I had hoped for. We had about a dozen people stop by, of all ages, to make buttons, visit with other creatives, or work on their own projects. We had people starting drawing challenges, stitching quietly, picking out wool for spinning into yarn and sharing ideas and feedback. I especially loved the interaction between adult and young artists. There was a mutual respect and sharing of ideas that was truly heartwarming.
This is why Lil Fish Studios exists.
We all have creativity inside us. Even if you “can’t draw a stick figure” (can you hear my eyes rolling?). What I want people to understand is that creativity is not necessarily about creating a particular thing, but rather something that puts you in touch with another part of you. It helps you be more like who you are. It lets you live out loud. It exercises your brain, it helps cultivate empathy, it reduces stress hormones. The fact that you may make something pretty by the end is just the icing on top. I want to make a safe place for people to explore their creativity. Come out and play.
Last Thursday, the studio welcomed The Sowing Room and their Third Space gathering. Dawn had a project for people to work on, and the conversations flowed. We will be hosting more of these events, and in March, I will be leading attendees through the process of making mini block prints by carving erasers. It will be fun to see what people come up with. There will be enough paper and fabric for everyone to swap blocks and go home with a collection of prints. There isn’t a charge for this event, but if you’re interested, you will need to let Dawn know you’re coming. Visit The Sowing Room’s website or watch for their Facebook event to RSVP.
March brings several workshops and events to the studio, including the “Eggstravaganza” with my friend Candice from Treeline Acres. She will be teaching about using natural dyes on eggs while I teach you how to make a candle in an egg shell. You’ll go home with 5 dyed eggs and 1 candle in a cute little carton. Sign up through my shop link.
I’ll be putting out a more complete calendar soon, but for now, the studio will be open Thursday nights, for workshops and events, and by appointment. You can email me with any questions at lisa@lilfishstudios.com
Mar 1, 9:00-11:00 - Sunset Lake Felting Workshop at Campfire Bay Resort, Cushing
Mar 5, 6:00-8:00 - the studio is open, stop on by
Mar 12, 6:00-8:00 - Open Studio - bring a project and mingle with other creatives. Come one, come all
Mar 19, 6:30-8:30 - Third Space w/The Sowing Room - mini block prints - RSVP to the Sowing Room
Mar 26, 6:00-8:00 - Pollinator paper collage on wood workshop
Mar 29, 1:00-3:00 - Eggstravaganza w/Treeline Acres - natural egg dyeing and egg candles
Lil Fish Studios is located in the Franklin Arts Center at 1001 Kingwood St, Brainerd MN