Ready to plan your visit?
Reach out via text or telephone at (612) 424-2166
Send me an email
isabelemersondesign@gmail.com
10 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT STUDIO VISITS:
With Isabel
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Every studio is different. This space is where the work is made: it will not be set up like a gallery. My maker space is messy, and that’s completely okay.
There’s not a lot of elbow room. But I’m happy to have you look around the space, in the corners. There is no need to dress any more than you feel comfortable. I will likely be in work clothes (read: covered in paint).
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1-2 weeks is standard. I’m thrilled to have you in the space, and I can often accommodate the 48-72 hours' notice, but regardless, I still need advance notice to take out the recycling.
Call, text, or email, and we can pencil in a date that works.
Plan for it to take 25 to 90 minutes.
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Holland Arts West is a private building and unfortunately not ADA compliant. The freight elevator is not in working order. There is one flight of ten stairs between the locked exterior door and my working studio. I will work with you to make any requested accommodations.
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You need not feel pressured to purchase anything because of this appointment.
Buying art is a very personal experience. You are welcome in the space without that pressure.
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This is a safe space for all, welcoming all folks except ICE. Bigotry in any form will not be tolerated, and if you’re an asshole, you will be directed to leave the property immediately. I’ve thrown folks before, and I will not hesitate to do it again.
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I try to get at it but not everything will be priced in this environment. It’s a workspace. Please ask! Based on the size of the work and the number of layers of oil paint ( or gesso) (hidden to the naked eye), prices will vary. I’m happy to give an estimated range for a piece, but until the work is completed, expect a range.
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but I will jump ahead of this one:
There are no discounts. As a working artist without gallery representation, I price and sell my work to keep making more. The cost of time, overhead, and supplies is included.
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Sometimes smaller preparatory works will be discounted (a rare thing, but it will happen to clear space- I will let the email list know first)
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8. Considering a piece but maybe you need a moment? Absolutely! Take a moment! Let me know- I’ve got lots of work to keep doing- this is not a bother.
Yellowbird Coffee Bar is less than two blocks away. Walden Coffee and line-worthy sandwiches at Marty’s Deli are around the corner. Liquid courage could be found at Grumpy’s down the block, and unforgettable food at Hai Hai will give you strength. Take a walk, think!
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You’ve fallen in love with a work. Congratulations! Now cash or card? As a small business owner ( who once learned the hard way), I do not accept checks. A card is preferred, and taxes will be added to the listed price. I often bring petty cash to a weekend art show, but I do not leave any cash in my studio (for safety).
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Do I want you to fall in love with something and bring it home with you to love and cherish forever? Yes!
But art, just like love, is slow. And I'm glad about that. Can’t wait to see you in the studio. Email or text me to get started.
Love, Isabel
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If the art you love is ready to move, I am happy to wrap it for safe travel; often, the best way to move a large work is unwrapped and face up in a vehicle.
If you've purchased a larger work and need help, reasonable local delivery can be arranged: ask!

