3 minute read
Creative Holmes in WeCo
Artist Steph Holmes on deciding to create her art and home in Downtown York
BY MEGAN KREISER | ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT, EVENTS
Steph Holmes didn’t plan to return to her hometown of York when she left for college. After searching for her perfect arts community, traveling from Maine to North Carolina, she returned to York City to find a welcoming, flourishing, and nurturing community for the creative arts. Since her return, she’s not only decided to reside in the city but also to open her very own storefront – a space where she can create and sell her artwork.
Steph Holmes Artist Studio is located at 336 W Market Street. You’ll often find her stationed in her front window painting, allowing those passing by to view what she’s working on. Recently, a young girl asked to come in to see her space and Steph gave her a private tour. “I found that tour so touching. Because I keep this space as my working studio, my storefront has become a place where aspiring creatives can get a behind-the-scenes look at an art business, an example that I didn't really have myself growing up."
But sharing this love for the arts is nothing new. Since 2012, she’s been deeply involved in the local arts scene, from teaching painting, drawing, and clay classes, to exhibiting her work, hosting events, and lending a hand at various community gatherings. All of this is possible because she resides and works in Downtown York.
Steph’s artwork revolves around reconnecting people with nature, a theme she finds deeply healing. Her studio is bright and vibrant – a colorful sanctuary to bring people in to view her work. But her home, which is just a short walk away, is completely different. Adorned with artwork and trinkets from fellow artists, her home reflects a muted, nature-focused tone. Plants can be found in the windows, a large pottery collection is on display, and little natural things are displayed around for her inspiration.
In her home, you’ll find her two muses – her rescue cockatiels named Birby and Shark. Much of her life at home revolves around her two little birds, including the bird song soundtrack that is often heard playing in the background.
Sustainability is a huge part of Steph’s ethos, from using secondhand art materials to eco-friendly packaging. The sense of being connected to nature and the reuse of items flows through her home and artwork. Living in Downtown York plays into this sentiment as it serves a walkable community with Refillism to purchase home care and personal products, and the CRDC is nearby to recycle all plastic and Styrofoam products. If you visit the CRDC, which is the first of its kind in the United States, you’ll find an ocean-themed mural that Steph painted to bring nature into the facility.
STEPH’S STUDIO
336 Market St | Open Fridays, 10 am – 2 pm; First Fridays, 5 – 8 pm; By appointment
