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Check out Kristine Kollasch and Ellen Nemetz’s Artwork

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristine Kollasch and Ellen Nemetz.

First Studio’s Art Gallery is unique in that it is housed within the halls of the historic, first TV studio in Phoenix. First Studio provides a beautiful space to have a show in a building that is an ongoing part of Phoenixes creative history. They are a community-based space that does not take a commission on sales or charge artists to hang their work. They feature individual artists as well as groups of various sizes and themed shows. They provide 200 linear feet of wall space with an easy art hanging system, coordination and general marketing for the First Friday openings. Artists and curators Kristine and Ellen organize shows throughout the year, often changing monthly with opening receptions and events on the First and Third Friday’s of the month.

Built in 1949 by Rex Schepp and designed by T. Lawrence Milligan, KPHO television and radio station, First Studio was the first television station in Arizona. This building is most famous as the birthplace of the Wallace and Ladmo Show. First Studio currently houses several creative companies, including the building owners Randy & Theresa Murray of Postal Edit Suites and Randy Murray Productions.

We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
First Studio is different than most galleries in that we do not take a commission which allows us to focus more on the uniqueness of the shows and the opportunity to feature artists who may not have had a chance to show elsewhere. These artists include emerging artists side by side with renowned artists such Anne Coe, Larry Ortega, and Frank Ybarra. As artists themselves, curators Kristine Kollasch and Ellen Nemetz also often exhibit their work in the space.

We have quality shows that involve the whole community. Groups may be inclusive of specific guilds or brought together based on a pertinent theme impacting our community. The shows are cohesively hung to create an environment that allows guests to meander through a historic building surrounded by creativity and expression. Our intention is for guests to leave the space more connected to Phoenix’s past as well informed and inspired by the works of current local artists.

The sterotype of a starving artist scares away many potentially talented artists from pursuing art – any advice or thoughts about how to deal with the financial concerns an aspiring artist might be concerned about?
As an artist, find a job that inspires your creativity. Find work that can teach you more about art or marketing or skills that can be used to hone your craft and be a better business person. Artists need to continue to create work because it is their passion but also must learn how to sell/market their work.

First Studio is a great opportunity for artists to show their work with minimal costs and great exposure and guidance in promoting the show.

Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
People can see featured shows through our Facebook page. The best way is to visit the space First Studio. The artist receptions are on First and Third Fridays from 6-9 p.m. The gallery space is also accessible to the public Monday through Friday, 9 to 5 p.m. for self-guided touring.

To support our work, come to receptions and like us on Facebook. Tell your friends to make First Studio your first stop on First Friday.

Contact Info:


Image Credit:
Building and first group shot: Kyle Fied

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.

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