According to the studio’s Facebook page, Hardwick Yards is “a community of urban artists creating in a supportive, collaborative environment — sharing space, tools and knowledge to grow.” Photo by Victoria Hernandez.
Hardwick Yards will host an open studio event Saturday, April 25, from noon to 5 p.m.
The featured artists of the studio include Eliseo Garcia, Janna Tidwell, Kat Warwick, Art Fairchild and studio owner Julia Ousley. The event will take place in honor of International Sculpture Day, a worldwide celebration that highlights the art form, bringing together the community and showcasing the talent of the Hardwick Yards artists.
“It just gives us an opportunity to open our space and let others come in and see what we’re doing, and kind of recognize sculpture as an art form,” Ousley said.
Kat Warwick working on a commissioned piece at Hardwick Yards. Photo by Victoria Hernandez.
Originally acquiring the studio for her own art practice about a decade ago, Ousley realized she had more space than she needed. She decided to open applications for others to join her space, with most of the current artists joining during the pandemic. The grounds include interior offices, garage spaces for larger pieces and outdoor yards.
“It’s a really well-equipped workshop,” Ousley said. “I can do anything with wood or metal and other materials if you want.”
Eliseo Garcia working on a sculpture in the outdoor portion of Hardwick Yards. Photo by Victoria Hernandez.
The April 25 event will include a gallery display of the five artists’ work and a live demonstration allowing studio visitors to participate in the sculpture process.
“I let whoever comes in (and) wants to try, they get a chance to try to carve with me,” Garcia said. “It’s something that I’ve promoted for years and years, so they get the chance to see not only my work and their work, but they get to participate and carve a little bit and all ages will be able to carve with the tools.”
Hardwick Yards is located at 2345 Hardwick St.
