Studio Two Three has been a work in progress since December 2007. It all started with a big, empty studio, a few printmakers, and a lot of heart. Two years later, we are becoming a non-profit organization; have outgrown our very full studio and plan to move this summer; have many artists involved; and the studio continues to thrive as a labor of love!

After graduating from VCU in 2007, Ashley Hawkins and Sarah Watson started Studio Two Three in order to keep making work. There was nowhere outside of academia in Richmond that had the necessary materials to work in print media—the cost and maintenance of printmaking equipment requires a lot of money and time, and so is not practical for the individual (you’re much more likely to find a painting studio in somebody’s garage than a fully functional print shop!). While various institutions around town teach classes in limited print media, we wanted to create a space available 24 hours a day where people could simply come and work. Through blood, sweat, and tears (our own and of many friends’!), of course money, and some luck we signed a lease at Plant Zero in December 2007 and managed to put together an impressive collection of equipment. We learned the power of asking for stuff—you’d be amazed what you can get if you simply ask for it.

Later that Spring, Studio Two Three was very lucky to be joined by Tyler Dawkins and Emily Gannon, who both studied at Alfred University in New York and had recently moved to Richmond. They happened to be interested in the same kind of creative, community based print studio that Ashley and Sarah wanted to make, and it was love at first sight.

For the better part of two years, Studio Two Three functioned as an artist co-op; basically, the four of us, and whoever else we could interest, would split the rent of the studio and share use of print equipment and workspace. We also organized collaborative projects and organized shows (see pages to the left for details). We now have 7 full time renters, have started teaching workshops, and hold open studio hours where the shop is open for any walk-ins.

While we are very proud of our efforts up until now, we are ready to expand. Happily coinciding with a brand new, built to suit space at the New Manchester Flats and the donated use of about $25,000 worth of equipment courtesy of the developers (all happening this summer!), we have decided to become organized. We want to create a presence in Richmond that extends beyond our studio walls, that is visible and keeps people excited and productive artistically, that upholds the multiple as a pertinent medium. We’ve decided that becoming a Non-Profit organization is the way for us to accomplish our goals; we will be using grants and donations to create and sustain an engaging network of workshops, artist lectures, collaborative projects and outreach programs. We are now registered as a Non-Stock Corporation, are building an incredible board and are in the midst of completing our application for tax-exempt status.

Studio Two Three has an amazing year ahead, and as a young organization still has an identity to find. Get involved now and contribute to our community!