I thought it would be funny to double down on the theater metaphor of it all; only Maria Von Trapp herself could say if it’s working (and you know she never will.)
Welcome to the newsletter!
Direct to you from the studio that is Prop Dept!
21st Century Set Design for the Modern Marmot will cover all your usual bases, plus some unusual ones if you reallllllly beg for it. As a modern set woman of design and marmot-y tastes, I’ll speak eloquently through song + dance (and by “song + dance” I mean mainly type-written word + some doodles) on up-to-the-minute news from the studio.
1. A shop no longer
Aforementioned Prop Dept.—once northeast Portland’s most well-respected (don’t fact-check me) “slow art shop”—is becoming a studio space and gallery more than a SHOP in the classical sense. I thought this would be more emotional but it’s not. I’m just excited?!
2. A new plan
The space itself is a bizarre magic attic hallway and I want you to see it. In addition to it’s regular use as my clothing rework + papier mache studio, we plan to host craft nights, art shows, monthly open studios, workshops, fashion shows, and so on. We’ll bring in other artists to show you their other ideas. We’ll eat pasta. Last night I even concepted a series of narrow plays that could take place in the narrow space! Auditions are surely imminent.
21st Century Set Design for the Modern Marmot (aka this thing which I’ve titled VERY WELL) will post monthly, to check in and let you know what’s on the docket for the coming month.
3. Also still a little bit of a shop
Despite it all (aka the above) we continue to carry a curated selection of our patented one-of-a-kind handmade art. Stop by for your hit of Nic Frances Ceramics, art prints and zines by a variety of local artists and, nepotistically, papier mache pieces by yours truly. Watch our instagram for sporadic open hours, or message us to shop by appointment. You’ll also be able to shop online soon. SOON.
4. Upcoming events + features
The next little bit will largely be a transitionary (real word?) month as we build out the work studio. HOWEVER, Prop Dept. the shop opened April 1st of 2023 and so we will celebrate her birthday with a fun party:
Sat 3/30 | Art Show + Prop Dept. 1 Year Birthday Party 5pm-8pm, Prop Dept. at Alberta Studios Check out new 3D-rendered print work by J. G. S. and celebrate/explore the new Prop Dept. studios. Snacks, sounds + wine provided.