Some mornings I still pause for a second before I unlock the studio door. A year in, and it hasn’t worn off.
For as long as I’ve been making art, I’ve worked from home. Kitchen tables, spare rooms, cyanotypes drying wherever I could find a flat surface. Having a space of my own was a dream I carried for a long time. This year, it came true.
Where it started
When I first walked into this space, it was a mess. Honestly, it took some imagination to see what it could be.
My husband, Kurt, saw it with me. He took my vision and made it a reality, and I couldn’t have done it without him.
A year of making, together
In one year, this little studio has welcomed more than 150 students, sent 86 originals to new homes, and wrapped up more than 500 tea towels.
Those numbers still surprise me. But what I love most is what’s behind them: people sitting around my table, trying something new, and leaving with something they made with their own hands. Some came for a class, some for a private party with friends, and some just to see where the art is made.
I’ve also started hosting Creative Study Hall, where anyone can bring whatever they’re working on and create alongside others. It has quietly changed my own art. Being around other people who are making things opens my eyes to new ways of working, and it keeps me showing up to create, even on the days I’d rather not.
Room to grow
Having my own space has given me something I didn’t expect: room to think bigger. I’m making larger work than I ever have before. The walls are filled with my art, and my towels and cards finally have a home where people can see them in person.
I’ll never forget the first time someone took a piece home right off these walls.
My very first studio collector! Kristin and her hubby took home “I Am Chaos” and “I Am Fire,” my first mixed media collages and still two of my favorites. I’ll never forget it.
Just last month, I added my artwork to a snowboard for the Monarch Mountain Snowboard Art Show. A year ago, I wouldn’t have had the space to even try something like that.
The people down the hall
One of the best surprises of this year has been the community here in our warehouse. I’m surrounded by other artists and makers, and we cheer each other on, share ideas, and borrow supplies. I love our little community, and I didn’t know how much I needed it until I had it.
Come celebrate with me
On Friday, November 6th, from 5 to 9 pm, I’m hosting First Friday in Salida, and I’d love for you to be part of it.
There will be live music by Hemmed in Hollow, libations, gifts with purchase, and a chance to win a gift basket full of goodies. My new winter tree originals will be out too, just in time for holiday shopping.
The Wildflower Studio
129 W 3rd St, Warehouse B, Salida, CO
Enter through the alley
Thank you
To my students, my clients, and everyone who has come along on this journey with me: thank you. This space wouldn’t be special without you.
And to Kurt, my life is so much better with you in it. Thank you for always championing my art, whether it’s remodeling my space, being my muscle when setting up for art shows, or just being my best friend.
I can’t wait to see you Friday.
Wendy