Get crafty

Artistic minds inspired amid uncertain times

“Art is often something that people don’t feel qualified to do. Just giving people a little bit of instruction, or to even know what kind of supplies they need to use, opens them up in ways that they didn’t know was possible.”

–Susan Guerra, co-owner of Inspired Minds

BY MEGAN WEHRING

Creativity is flowing as local woodworking and art studios see more people interested in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects.

Board and Brush in Dripping Springs focuses on workshops teaching all the steps that go into customizing a wooden sign. Distressing the wood to a rustic look, staining, applying stencils and painting are just a few.

While the wooden signs are created in the studio, owner Nicole Gilchrist said she believes that the workshops could motivate people to create DIY projects at home.

“For some, they have all the materials already and just need a clearer idea of how to complete a project,” Gilchrist said. “For others, they would just rather book a workshop and not have to worry about rounding up all the supplies themselves.” Inspired Minds Art Center in Buda adjusted its business model earlier this year to offer both in-person and online classes or workshops, while still supporting local artists with hosting galleries. Co-owner Sinead Whiteside said the Daydreams and Distractions

exhibit encourages beginner photographers to participate.

“It inspired amateur photographers to go out and take photographs,” Whiteside said. “When we had this gallery opening, there were people who never had their work in a gallery before coming in and

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they felt really great.”

Some may feel discouraged about partaking in any workshop if they have limited experience. Gilchrist said the instruction-led portion of the sessions are intended for the projects to be accessible for every person.

“Not having been a crafty person before this, I can definitely relate to customers that come in and are a little bit nervous or intimidated,” Gilchrist said. “I think the step-by-step instruction makes it easier for people who aren't crafty. We have had people from 5 to 90 years old come in

and complete a workshop.”

Inspired Minds is one of the few local art centers open at this time. Co-owner Susan Guerra Giving Back... said beginning artists can be encouraged to participate beIt’s what we do! cause they are provided with an outlet suited just for them. StarTex Real Estate

“Art is often something that would like to thank people don’t feel qualified to do,” Guerra said. “Just giving people a little bit of instruction, or to even know what kind all our clients for helping us be able to give over of supplies they need to use, $31,000 in 2018! opens them up in ways that they didn’t know was possible.” We look forward to

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