9-02-2020 1:20pm

Chasing Light Art Studio and Gallery Offers Art, Education

Rick Amburgey Neighbor

Photo Credit: Kelly Ann Photography.

One of the newer additions to the historic downtown Springboro area is Chasing Light Art Studio and Gallery. Shawna Hatton, owner, said she does her own work in the studio, but she plans to do a lot of teaching at the location. "For the gallery portion, my intent is to have a place that connects local artists with the local community and makes art accessible," she said. As an artist, Hatton has first-hand experience that galleries can be very intimidating and unwelcoming. "I want to be someplace where people are comfortable showing and enjoying art," she said.

Hatton is a person who tries to project positivity and she thinks her nature will make people feel welcome in her business. "I am a very welcoming person and find people and their stories interesting. I love people of all walks of life," she said.

"Somebody can come in and buy something small for under $10," Hatton said, adding there are larger pieces of art which are more expensive. Additionally, she does commissions for people. She also connects people with different artists if she knows they are looking for something particular. Although she has only been living here for four years, she has met a lot of artists. She said she also teaches at the Dayton Art Institute, the Middletown Art Center and with private lessons. She is a member of the Dayton Society of Artists, the Contemporary, and the Springboro Arts Council. Chasing Light Art Studio and Gallery will provide opportunities for artists of all levels. "I have a heart for students," Hatton said. She said she looks forward to collaborating with local art teachers and having student shows. She features an artist every Friday on her website and she said it has become popular. Hatton plans to have a gallery night once a month to feature a specific artist so they can bring in more of their work.

Hatton said she believes we are all designed to create in some way, but some people stop because of their fear of judgement by others or themselves. She said art is healthy as an outlet and that's the focus of her classes. "It's not as much about the end result as it is about the process," she said.

Hatton has been putting together a curriculum for classes. "They can use material and learn about color to create, to tap into their own emotions. It can bring a lot of calm to anxious souls...," she said. Hatton said people may think that art isn't for them but it is healthy. "They may not think that art is for them, but it's healthy. It brings people together. It's fun. We need to check the judgement at the door, so to speak. " Hatton said the heart of her studio is more about helping people, learning, creating, and having fun.

Hatton has seen people recently discover artistic talent and a love for art. She said one of her students "just discovered in the last few months that she can draw and she's phenomenal...She really has a natural ability," adding that she has another friend who didn't start painting until she was 55. She said there's nothing but good things that can come out of the practice of creating. "Even if your piece touches one person, that's huge and I think we need more beauty in this world," Hatton said.

Hatton will have offers classes for all ages and levels. Even if a student is just starting out doesn't have any artistic ability, she will meet them where they are at in their artistic journey. In addition to group classes, she also offers private sessions if people prefer one-on-one instruction. Hatton is dedicated to working with all of her students and getting them to the next level.

One reason Hatton said she is opening now is because so many places are closed. "Classes have to be small. They have to be under 10. I can offer that in a safe ways," she said. "It is ideal for a homeschool pod or with your group of friends."

The building on South Main Street already has some artists in it now. "It's a great thing for Springboro," Hatton said. The arts are growing on Main Street, beginning with Art Fest on Main that started a few years ago. I'm excited about how this is developing even in the midst of a pandemic."

The studio has been open since June and she has been working on finishing up some of her own commissions. The first workshop was held in August with more classes starting after Labor Day.

Hatton said there is art from about 12 artists in the gallery right now. What is on the walls of the studio changes, depending on activities. "When we have a photography workshop, that will be the focus. When we are painting, canvases will be on the wall... I want it open and fluid, so that it can be an adaptable space." Hatton hopes the studios at 140 S. Main will become an artistic center for the community.

Chasing Light Art Studio and Gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., as well as by appointment. For more information, go to the Facebook page, Chasing Light Art Studio and Gallery or email chasinglightstudioart@gmail.com.