If you are into art, you can now step In 2 it like never before.
Two of Prince George's established artists, Mo Hamilton and Janice Parker, have joined forces on a new creative process: running a retail store. But of course, when two agile minds like theirs get together in one room, it quickly moves beyond the four tactile walls and 160 square feet of floor space. In 2 Studio Gallery will be a place where they work on some of their new art, sell some of their prior art, teach some elements of art to others, and have shows in the big room outside of their front door. They are the latest occupants of the Art Space set of creative offices and studios atop of Books & Company.
"We want this to be an active space," said Hamilton. "Janice and I have both taught art before, we both love the process itself, so I expect we will be engaging people here on their own creativity as much as we have it for our own creativity. We already have one event planned to get that going, and there is so much potential for art parties, weekly classes, weekend workshops, all kinds of things."
'Having the events and activities gives more awareness about art and what it can be," said Parker. "Maybe this will be a way, a place, where people can discover new things about art in their own lives."
They agreed that having the art shop is a motivating force for their own projects.
"We are hanging out a shingle. It's a public declaration of what we do, which makes us take more seriously what our own intentions are," said Hamilton. "Sometimes, when you're alone in your work, you aren't as accountable to yourself."
They have been two artists nobody could ever accuse of slacking in their craft, however.
Parker was one of the participants in the recent Community Arts Council event Art Battle, and she was also recently featured in her own solo exhibition at Groop Gallery.
Hamilton has a piece in Voices, a group exhibition currently on at the Two Rivers Gallery. With Cariboo collaborator Simone Benjamin she has a pair of exhibitions set for Williams Lake in March then Smithers in July. She also has a book illustration project in the works with a local writer.
"We don't know how it's all going to evolve, we just like art and we want to share it in this creative space," said Parker.
The store is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Their first activity event is on Feb. 13 called Valentines Love Hearts. The public is invited to drop in ($10 includes materials and instructions) and learn how to make linocut (a simple do-it-yourself printmaking technique) hearts for sweetheart gifts. Join the activity anytime between 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.
