Broad Studios Makes Room for Austin Artists
Makers & Shakers
Words by Chris Ferguson, AIA Photos by Eric Morales
Meet the Broad Squad: a collective of female artists providing an invaluable platform for emerging local artists, educators, and their communities.
We knew it not only needed to be a production space but also a catalyst for community connection,” explains Kara Pendl, a founding member of Broad Studios. Now entering its sixth year, the ambitious female art collective and maker space is directed by Kara and two other founding resident artists: Hallie Shafer and Genna Williams.
Since their arrival at East Austin’s Springdale General campus in 2017, the trio have not only built and sustained a crucial community-hub for local talent but also a social and collaborative resource designed for Austinites.
The original founding members – six in total – shared a need for workable studio space, especially one that had proper infrastructure for ceramics. After combining efforts and signing the lease, the group met regularly, developing a plan to use their new facility for a broader mission.
“Our vision from the outset was to host workshops, offer educational opportunities, and create a safe space for emerging, female artists,” continues Kara. “And while it took longer than we wanted due to the pandemic, we do have a meaningful community resource and platform for new artists.”
“A lot of our community activations focus around putting as much money into artists’ pockets as possible, because we know how gallery fees and commissions can cut into artists’ sales.”
Hallie Shafer
The multipurpose “Club House” is a community-oriented flexible space, oriented around classes, date nights, workshops, community activations, and private events, while the recently opened “Broad Shop” offers a permanent retail exhibition space for members. With equity in mind, featured artists keep all of their sales. Additionally, members can use the facilities to meet with clients if they don’t have a well-suited meeting space of their own.
“Ultimately, we have this space so we can give the gift to other makers,” concludes Genna, “and if we can help an artist transition from part-time to full-time, that’s really an ultimate goal for us.”
Did you know?
Anyone can be featured in the Broad Shop! Artists working in all mediums and price points can apply online.
New Faces
Broad Studios recently welcomed its two newest residents: Jessy Wilson and Ahn Hee Strain.
Contact:
1023 Springdale Rd., Bldg. 6D
broadstudiosatx.com
broadstudiosatx@gmail.com
@broadstudios
