Necessary Arts Company: A Collaborative Artist Studio in Guelph
Necessary Arts Company is a collaborative, multi-disciplinary, open learning art and design studio. It is located in Downtown Guelph and is co-owned by Cynthia Waldow and Francis Hahn.
Describe Your Business?
Necessary Arts Company is a collaborative, co-working artist studio. It is a creative community.
What Made You Decide to Open This Business?
We were looking to work around and alongside like-minded artists.
What Drives You to Do What You Do? What Motivates You?
We are driven to connect with people. (Cynthia and Francis) wanted to create an artist-to-artist community. Their motivation is driven from how artists see the world anew.
What Surprised You Most When Owning This Business?
It takes a very long time for people to notice that there are so many amazing, undiscovered artists in Guelph.
What Is Something Most People Don't Know About the Business?
Necessary Arts Company offers art consultation. We also sell art online and in the studio.
What Would Your Customers Say They Love Most About Your Business?
Our ability to adapt to our clients' needs, as well as the guidance we provide to artists.
What Are Some Odd Requests You've Had from Clients?
A client came in and said, "We're selling our house and need a painting done in an hour".
What Are Your Goals Over the Next Year?
In 2018, we want to find a new studio space. We also want to have a great hoop-la!
How Long Have You Lived in the Downtown Guelph Neighbourhood?
5 years in April.
What Do You Love Most About the Neighbourhood?
Having the ability to have clients and friends drop in. Access to all of the action and business of the Business Downtown Guelph. We love seeing the vibrancy of the core and the diversity.
What Are Your Favourite Restaurants in the Neighbourhood?
Buon Gusto, Moe's Gourmet, and Galt Juice Company.
Have You Witnessed Any Significant Changes Since Moving Here?
Businesses change over. It is very exciting to see how Downtown Guelph becomes more vibrant with new businesses. We love seeing the old buildings being restored.
Why Do You Think It Is Important to Shop Local?
Shopping local is important because it means people can remain local and prosper locally. It helps people in our community to keep doing what they love.
What's the Most Memorable Experience(s) You've Had Working with a Client?
An airbrush make-up artist whose craft messed up the whole studio! The make-up was everywhere. Yes, we literally mean EVERYWHERE. Also, the artists who stay and become friends.
Do You Have Any Exciting Plans for the Future That You Want Customers to Know About?
Our 5th anniversary is coming up! Also, Frances is going to be featured at The Artist Project in Toronto. Learn more here.
Garth Laidlaw is an animator, illustrator, and writer of children's picture books, comic books, and board games.
