Outside of the new studio
After several years of wishing and searching, I have signed a lease on a small commercial space for a studio. This is the first installment describing the progress of the move.
Since I started drawing and painting in the mid-90s, my art habit has outgrown a spare bedroom, and now the garage. Currently I have a good inventory of paintings, and I intend to increase my production even more as I search for gallery representation. I also want space for some small classes and special open studio events. The space I have leased is in a commercial area near my home. I considered looking for a studio in the Congaree Vista for the camaraderie of other artists and exposure to art events. But, as usual in real estate, location won out, and I decided to stay close to home to minimize travel time.
Interior with brown walls and bad carpet
Looking out the front windo
Testing lighter color for walls
Here are the “before” photos. The space is narrow and deep with a window at the front. The front section has an odd configuration of partial walls that divide it into two spaces. Behind that is a small room without windows that will be storage, and there’s a restroom in the back. The dark brown wall color was depressing, so I’m in the process of painting the walls a lighter warm neutral color. Pulling out the dirty gray industrial carpet revealed yellow carpet glue on the concrete floor. I have found a man who says he can remove it with a soy-based remover called Bean-e-doo, but don’t yet know how well that will work.
On the business side of things, I have set up an LLC on the advice of my financial advisors, and am in the process of applying for all of the proper licenses. As I do one step, I find that there are more steps beyond that. So far my “Things to Do” list includes the following:
LLC filing Lease Electric service with SCE&G Insurance for liability and contents (may need alarm system?) Richland County Business license (including zoning approval and fire marshall inspection) SC Sales tax license (including Personal Business property tax) Bank Account Credit card merchant account Signs for building Phone and internet service?Not all of these are complete yet, and they all take twice as much time and money as anticipated, but I’m learning a lot!
Besides that, I’ve updated my website, made a Facebook page, started a blog, and made an introductory video.
Whew! It has been a busy few weeks. Stay tuned for updates, and post advice if you have any.