Early this year, I took a trip to Omaha NE for a family event. Along the way, we stopped in Nebraska City, NE and happened upon the Self Expressions Gallery. It is a great shop full of local artists and artisans. While we were chatting with the owners, they said a “must see” for art enthusiasts in Omaha is a place called the Hot Shops. It sounded like a great idea so programmed the GPS and off we headed to the Hot Shops Art Center in Omaha, NE.
We wound our way through the downtown and industrial area of Omaha and found the place. It was very much like a warehouse and many buildings all hooked together. Random pieces of artwork and sculptures were scattered around the outside The excitement and anticipation built as we walked to the front doors. As soon as we walked in, OMG!!! Just the atmosphere alone was perfect. Wide hallways and big open spaces with large doorways scattered around the sides. Most of the doors were open in an eager invitation to step through and visit the artists. Each artist has their own studio space to work, sell and teach.
The first doorway lead to a stained glass studio Painted Light Glass and the artist, Valerie Spellman. She was busy working on a project but took time to show us around and chat about her work. Stained glass is such a unique artwork as you have to plan out the piece and be purposeful about the design. It was a wonderful bright day and the sun glittered on the pieces hung around the room.
More To See Around Every Corner
Wandering back into the main hallway, the Hot Spot space seemed to go on and on. Around every corner was a whole new hallway full of doors leading to new and unique things. There are artists of many genres and media. Quilt makers who create true works of art one postage stamp square at at time.
Photographers, jewelry makers, paper and textile arts, and even a glass blowing workshop.
There were lists of classes everywhere as many are eager to share their knowledge and spread the joy of their craft. The mere act of asking the artist about their work brought out the glow of pride in their demeanor and their true love of creativity. Lori Elliott-Bartle is a painter and printmaker with some very unique pieces. She was very excited to show off her work and loves teaching others.
In one corner was a “sculpture” that was a testament to the trash in our oceans and the animals that struggle to survive. It was huge.
The Feeling of Collaboration
The clay/pottery room was open and we wandered in to watch people at the wheel. One artist, with her hands full of brown clay, said she was really a painter with her own studio upstairs. She stated she enjoyed pottery as a fun diversion and loves to spend time in the clay studio. The atmosphere in every shop was one of comradery and collaboration. I was so enthralled with each artist I met that day. The desire to go again to take a class or just watch the artist at work definitely puts this on the list of “must see.” The Hot Shops Art Center in Omaha, NE. Their website lists a mission to Educate, Experience, and Engage. Through classes, workshops, demonstrations, and open studio times, they welcome the community of artists and art enthusiasts. It is a happening place.
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Self Expressions Gallery in Nebraska City, NE
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