As more and more young and aspiring artists, musicians, entrepreneurs and those undefiniable “creative types” flock to our beloved neighborhood, there are some landlords who see this a way to turn a profit for cheap, charging outrageous prices for studios, or, in the manner of 3rd Ward, going belly up from their haughty investments. When it seems too easy to turn a quick profit on a derelict building in Bushwick these days, the guys over at Brooklyn Brush Studios are following a completely different model; providing reasonably priced studios with ample amenities for everyone from artists to the self-employed tech start-up entrepreneur. Their brand-new digs at 203 Harrison, just a block north of Flushing Ave and Wyckoff Ave, will be celebrating their grand opening with an inaugural exhibition and open house this Saturday from 12-6PM.
Parenthesis Gallery space in BSS is ready for a discerning curatorial eye of its residents
Last week, I caught up with Martin Luis, Bushwick artist and Director of Programming and Artist Affairs at the new Brush Studios location, and he couldn’t have been more excited about the space. With plans for a cafe and communal work/study area, not to mention the Parenthesis Gallery space that is available for all residents to utilize, it makes sense for artist to be interested in the space. While there are many studio spaces to chose from in the neighborhood, Brush Studios has the feeling of a newer, shinier, 17-17 Troutman building. While it doesn’t boast as many spaces that are conducive to future galleries, the building’s focus is clearly on the working artist; someone who wants a lively community yet serious space to work. “I wanted this space to foster collaboration between residents,” Luis said about the space. The open corridors and comfortable space already seems to hold the potential for this type of creative camaraderie.
Iris Mediaworks Shooting Room at BBS
One of the most notable qualities about the space is that it doesn’t feel over the top. It’s streamlined decor and kempt hallways and meeting rooms at first seem slightly at odds with the generally DIY and haphazardly put together studio spaces only blocks away. Yet, there is a levity and positive air associated with the space; something buzzing with excitement and potential energy. While not quite full yet, being around the space you can feel the excitement and room for growth and production in the space.
GoodKrak Studios at BBS
One of the most important elements of the studios for Luis is access. We spoke of the plight of many artists coming to Bushwick and unsure of where to begin, or how to find affordable working space. While Brush Studios is reasonably priced for the neighborhood, it might still be unaffordable for certain artists. Remerge Studios, just a few doors down from the new Brush Studios location is a much more affordable space for artists just starting out or with less disposable income.
Meeting Room
With about a third of the studio spaces occupied, Luis and Brush Studios are looking to expand their artistic community. This Saturday, Brush Studios will be hosting an inaugural event and exhibit at their Parenthesis Gallery space, open to the public. If you are an artist looking for a studio space, or just want to check it out, come by the space from 12-6PM.