Makerspace Board President and Founder Serena Smith outside the building that will become space for projects and classes. An open house will be held Sept. 21.
Makerspace Board President and Founder Serena Smith outside the building that will become space for projects and classes. An open house will be held Sept. 21.
THE DALLES — Makerspace 97058, a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit, will open soon in The Dalles to provide artists, makers and creatives with shared space for hands-on projects, classes and community connection.
“This is a grassroots nonprofit,” Makerspace Board President and Founder Serena Smith said. “I want to provide a public place, a membership-oriented organization where people get invested in the project and use it as their own art studio space.”
Smith said she has “always dreamed about doing a project like this,” began planning a few years ago, and the organization received its 501(c)(3) status last year.
To get the site ready, Smith said the group is looking for volunteers. “The buildings are sound,” she said, but “we’re looking for volunteers to help us fix up the space between now and January,” as well as ongoing volunteers “willing to give a little bit of extra time to maintain the property.”
The group also hopes to find community stewards for the site and people with metalsmithing expertise. Smith noted that while the facility has space for metals work, her own background is in glass and other art forms.
“I’m hoping that other people will come forward with their ideas,” she said.
The organization will offer tools, equipment and work areas for members, with fees helping cover maintenance and materials. Memberships range from $25 a month for access during open studio hours to $100 a month for 24/7 access, storage and a dedicated workspace. Nonmembers may take classes, and members may apply to teach workshops.
An open house is scheduled for Sept. 21 from 3-6 p.m. on the group’s rural property. Visitors are advised to wear closed-toe shoes and be prepared for uneven ground. Parking is available on Browns Creek Road or via driveways on either side of the buildings.
Tours will include the Lodge, Workshop, Garage and Barn, which features a spiral staircase. “Everybody is welcome and it is open to the public,” Smith said.
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