WILMINGTON — There’s a new space for creative community members of all ages to converge — and for those who wish to explore their hidden talents.
On Saturday, June 20 beginning at 11 a.m., Art House Studios will be hosting an open house celebrating their new location at 70 W. Sugartree St.
Owner Andrew Conarroe says the open house isn’t exactly what they had in mind due to pandemic precautions, but they wanted to kickstart the new location
Art House was previously located at the Murphy Studios on West Main Street. While Conarroe enjoyed the location, the move was decided for several reasons.
“The studio I had at the Murphy was fantastic for me as a private studio,” he said. “But it just wasn’t big enough in terms of what all I could do.”
Accessibility was also an issue, mainly the stairs which didn’t allow all people to make the climb.
“Also, the spacing is more open and more welcoming. Having a storefront with a window that looks directly helps not only us see them, but they see us,” he said.
Art House is also interested in having a gallery and retail spot where locals, regional artists, and crafters can sell what they make.
They also hope to use the space to host book clubs, art talks, and similar events.
Conarroe told the News Journal he’ll continue workhops for both children and adults, but they also plan on adding new offerings for the community — in particular, for teens.
“This fall we’re going to start an Art House magazine and it’s going to be run by teens in our community. It’s going to focus on art, photography, poetry, original writings … basically anything creative,” he said.
Another addition to the Art House is the Loose Parts thrift store. It will serve as a spot where people can pay what they can to get art supplies — all of which have been donated or bought at a discount.
“I’m super excited about it. I’ve already gotten several donations ranging from bottle caps and wine corks to fine art supplies,” said Conarroe.
Bringing the community together is probably the biggest motivator for the new space.
“Everything is better in a group and we don’t like doing things by ourselves,” he said. “It’s more fun when you get a diverse group of people. You get more ideas.”
For more, visit their Facebook page @arthouse937.
