
What to do? By now, we thought that things would have gotten back to some sort of normal….a way where a small business like The Studio could remain open and continue to operate. But it looks like that time is still far off in the future and people are still living in fear of coming out to classes and workshops. I blame the media for 95% of what is happening to small businesses. They have scared people, misreported, and caused the public to give up their normal lives for one of fear and isolation. I spoke with a small business owner yesterday who is throwing in the towel. She has hung on, as I have, hoping to come out the other side with her business intact….but she can’t. She is out of funds…and even worse, out of hope. My greatest fear is that this will be me in another month or so. So I’m asking for help….and ideas. I need to complete the schedule through the end of December with classes that will fill The Studio. I would love to know what subjects you would like to paint or projects you would like to undertake that would bring you back. I’d appreciate realistic ideas….those that are doable….and affordable. There are so many things I’d like to do but because of the cost of the materials and time it would take we just haven’t found a way to make them work here. But we are open to hearing some fabulous ideas. If you have one or two, please take a minute to message us or leave a comment. And watch for the schedule and if you can PLEASE sign up for a class soon. We would really appreciate the support! (Click here to see the current schedule.) I hope that very soon the fearmongering will end and everyone’s quality of life will return.
A friend writes: Maybe concentrating efforts on groups of people who know each other well enough to be comfortable in close quarters. Reserve some hours for people who are more comfortable being with people they know.
Have you thought of charging for a kit of material and/or charging for instruction via Facebook live, YouTube? Or zoom? You might find a market for those of us who are immunocompromised or even those who are just afraid. I know I would sign up. I understand how hard it is for small businesses and have tried to support you and others as best that I can. I really miss your instruction. Best, Jackie
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Thanks for the ideas. I would like to do more Zoom type classes….but it’s difficult to be sure people have the right supplies. I want to be sure their paintings turn out but with inferior supplies they won’t. I’m trying to work it out.
I agree with you 💯 %, Kelly!
This is killing art studio business everywhere. I will bring some ideas for you on Sunday.
You WILL get through next month, next quarter, and well past this whole mindfudge the general public is under the influence.
Thanks Denise! Thanks for the encouragement!!!
I am sorry to be hearing this. I am not a painter in the slightest or I would put some lessons in my schedule. My art is the camera, as you know. It would be dreadful to see you gone.
Thanks Mary Fran. You can paint! You would be surprised. Come join us sometime soon.