Center Studio 518

With a heavy, reluctant heart and after much consideration, I must inform you that Center Studio 518, located in the Center Mall, will be closing its doors.When I opened Center Studio 518 in 2017, I didn’t know what to expect, but I was excited at the prospects.

It’s been an awesome ride and there’s been alot of fun that’s taken place in the studio over the past five years.

We’ve dyed, pasted, scoured, combed, embroidered, made, created, built, cooked, drawn, weaved, sewn, grew, sawed, planted, painted, laughed (even cried), talked and so much more…over music, coffee, tea and nibbles in the company of friends, family, coworkers, children, grandchildren and new acquaintances…in a place I’ll definitely miss.

It’s been the best of times.

And while art and creation will continue, suite 518 itself will close permanently.

Covid 19 placed enormous strain on large businesses. Many closed. It’s been even more difficult for small businesses, especially micro art studios. Most closed.

Honestly, I’m not sure how I weathered the storm at all during the lock downs. Yes, I do. Faith.

But, due to unexpected and increased rents; I’m not able to justify the personal expenditures, as the micro studio receives no outside funding and the luxury is no longer sustainable for me alone.

There’s been alot of changes, discoveries, creations and new opportunities that occurred over the life of the art studio, including the creation of Fiber Arts Festival Omaha, an outdoor event and the creation of Fiber Arts Omaha as a nonprofit.

And let’s not forget about the annual Natural Dye Social; where indigo is one of the main stars. But you know what?

By far the best thing that happened was the studio providing a way of creating opportunities to create with you!

Thank you, my friend!

I’m looking forward to creating with you in new spaces and places as I and my practice transform in new ways.

Calandra “Callie” Cooper