I’ve been dreaming of a small shop in the front of my studio for years, and in the last few months, that dream came true. A tiny store is now part of gleena studios at 2114 S. Taylor Rd. in Cleveland Hts, Ohio.
I decided to relocate to Ohio from Rhode Island to be near my family, and while looking for a studio space for gleena, this storefront came along. Serendipitously it was already separated with a wood herringbone floor for the front space, and a grey linoleum floor for the studio space. The linoleum is ideal for my ceramics process, I wash floors many times a day to keep the dust away.
It’s been a lengthy, hard-won, process getting the studio set up and the kilns hooked up. I needed three-phase 240 hook up for my two production electric kilns. This meant dealing with the Illuminating Company, the city for permits and inspections, and re-wiring the kilns to match the new power source. I realized that the kilns are an extension of myself, having them down was like losing a hand. Thankfully, one kiln is running smoothly, the other still needs a few parts.
Magically, the shop came together smoothly. During the past ten years of doing craft and trade shows, I have met so many incredible artists. It is an honor and a privilege to call them my friends. I am so grateful to these beautiful craftspeople, their products arrived in time for the opening and make the shop a truly special little place. Come visit!
The beautiful shelves were created by Josh Miller, a local craftsman. Josh installed lights and all the display shelving and cases in the shop.
The rack holding Pilgrim Waters towels is an old wood stair that I found by the side of the road. I painted it to match the walls (Valspar Swill Coffee paint) and hung it upside down. Just right for Susy’s gorgeous creations.
I have many of Gauge NYC wall sculptures in my own home. Oh the shadows! Delicate and beautifully crafted, they have been selling well already.
Small aluminum letters are also made by Gauge NYC. Spell out any word, I carry the whole alphabet.
Baskets by Eliza Gran, towels and cards by June and December, cards by Heartswell, and towels by Teresa Green. Boxy shelves for cards were made for me back in grad school by a talented friend.
Letter-pressed cards by Heartswell. Just lovely.
This cups display was a very lucky dumpster dive rescue. It was someone’s fancy sock drawer, with brass tags on the side with color names. It is just the right size to hold wee teas, Gauge NYC letters and air plants.
gleena studio shop is open Wednesday-Friday 12 to 6pm, Saturday 12 to 5pm
