As Seen In San Diego Visual Arts Network
A DECADE OF SERVICE
TO THE ARTS
The Studio Door Unleashed
Celebrating a decade of service with a wave of innovative initiatives for 2024.
December 2023 - As The Studio Door prepares to mark a significant milestone – its 10th anniversary – the gallery stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and the unwavering dedication of its founder, Patric Stillman. Since its establishment in 2014, The Studio Door has not merely been a space for art; it has become a dynamic force shaping the narrative of San Diego's art scene. Guided by a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the practical support of artists, The Studio Door has emerged as a beacon of artistic resilience, providing a platform for mid-career and professional artists to flourish.
In a world where the term "starving artist" is often synonymous with the pursuit of creative passions, The Studio Door has defied convention. Beyond being a gallery, it has pioneered an artist-run business model, showcasing the tangible possibilities of sustainable art careers. As the creative community expands, The Studio Door is not just creating art; it is crafting a legacy unparalleled in the region, embodying the belief that art is a powerful vehicle for creating the world we want to live in.
THE STUDIO DOOR
The Studio Door is a vital visual arts gallery nestled in San Diego, distinguished by its 17 working studios that provide artists with practical spaces to create and showcase their work. The gallery hosts monthly community events, both within its premises and in the vibrant Mural Alley, fostering a dynamic connection between artists and the public. Renowned for its signature annual events, The Studio Door presents The Crow Show and the LGBTQ+ PROUD+ exhibition, offering a platform for artists to showcase their diverse creative voices.
Beyond the gallery's storefront, owner Patric Stillman is the driving force behind a continuous surge of creative commerce, professional development, and marketing endeavors aimed at amplifying the visibility and success of local artists. This commitment to supporting artists extends beyond the traditional gallery setting, making The Studio Door a hub of not just visual arts but also a thriving community of artistic commerce and growth.
THE YEAR AHEAD
Looking forward, 2024 appears to be a banner year with expanded programs and innovative collaborations. As of the date of this publication, Calls for The Studio Door’s national shows are opening. Dates and detailed information for additional Exhibitions, Programs and other opportunities will drop at the beginning of the year right here on The Studio Door website.
Gallery Exhibitions
Art sales remain central to The Studio Door’s operations, offering mid-career and professional artists a vital space to showcase possibilities for sustainable art careers. Notable exhibitions include the monthly curated gallery exhibits, the 10th Annual The Crow Show, 7th Annual LGBTQ+ PROUD+ and 2nd Annual ART+ LBGT History Month.
The gallery has already confirmed collaborations with The Bureau of Queer Art (Mexico City, Mexico), La Onda Arte Latino (Border Artists), Lambda San Diego Archives, historian Mike Balaban and artist Kevin Winger.
Now in the Gallery thru January 13, 2024: The Studio Door Curated Artists
January 19 - February, 24, 2024: La Onda Arte Latino Exhibition
March 1 - 24, 2024: 10th Annual The Crow Show
April 4 - 27, 2024: Special Curation by Kevin Winger
Also, expect eyes to be raised as the gallery holds its first body and sex positive museum-styled fine art erotic art exhibition, LibeRATED® FORMS, to arrive next summer.
Artist Professional Development
Recognizing that creative vision needs practical support, The Studio Door continues its commitment with 17 artists' studios, 6 rental exhibition spaces, and new initiatives like the Transformation Artist Lab workshop with RD Riccoboni and Patric Stillman. Newly expanded Artist Professional Development mentoring, including gallery exposure, ensures artists thrive in a competitive and evolving creative landscape.
Community Collaborations
Deeply connected to its Hillcrest neighborhood, The Studio Door will continue to actively engage in community development, participating in Hillcrest First Thursdays in Mural Alley and reporting on San Diego Arts for The WORD San Diego.
Programs
In the ever-changing landscape of the art community, adaptation is key. Art spaces must transcend traditional programming to remain relevant. Recognizing the imperative for innovation, The Studio Door actively promotes education, provides enjoyable experiences, recognizes artists, and champions experimentation. Three exciting new programs are set to enhance the community, empower artists, and ensure the continuous growth of the arts in the region: the monthly Painting with the Masters workshop series featuring Patrick N Brown, Joan Hansen, RD Riccoboni, and Andre Rushing; Art Shack, a weekly LGBTQ+ artist hangout; and the Stillman Art Prize, a prestigious award celebrating the achievements of San Diego queer artists.
Exclusives
Marking a decade of insights, The Studio Door will launch two exclusive web series on LinkedIn and online for Artists and Patrons, along with a commemorative book, sharing knowledge and celebrating its journey as an artist-run space.
The Studio Door's 10th anniversary heralds not just a milestone but a continuation of its transformative impact on the local art scene, embodying a commitment to artists, community, and the enduring power of the arts.