Winnetka Library to Unveil 'The Studio' for Creative Projects

The following is from the Winnetka-Northfield Public Library:

The Studio, a space designed to inspire art enthusiasts and innovators, will be unveiled in late October at the Winnetka Library. Located in the lower level of the Winnetka Library, The Studio will be home to both traditional and digital art equipment, with creative programs that educate, inspire and provide space for the community.

The Studio will feature the latest technology and equipment, such as 3D printers, Adobe Creative Cloud software and a laser engraver, as well as classic paint and canvas, photography backdrops and lighting, machines for sewing and embroidery and tools to make jewelry. Library Director Rebecca Wolf’s vision for the space “merges traditional and digital art to inspire and educate a community of artistic makers and creators. Our community embraces the arts. The Studio is going to be a place where they can come to learn, create and innovate in every medium. We want to welcome artists and would-be artists, and give them an opportunity to practice and explore creative projects.”

The Studio was made possible by a generous gift given to the Library from the Staffileno Family, in order that the library create a space to honor the memory of Constance E. Staffileno. The Studio was created to embody Mrs. Staffileno’s love for art and art education. The Library Foundation was instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.

The Studio includes plans for a do it yourself (DIY) area that will feature drop-in creative projects that can be completed in an hour or less. “We’re calling this our ‘DIY bar,’ a workbench that will feature DIY creative kits containing all the materials for the project will be available, and instructions for the projects will be posted on a large project board. Each month, a new creative project will be featured, such as mini watercolor canvas or a tiny terrarium.

The Studio’s first round of classes begins this fall, and includes programs such as an introductory pastels class, making an embroidered tote bag, 3D printing, laser engraving and knitting. The full class lineup will be outlined in the Library’s Fall newsletter mailed to all district homes next week. Library district cardholders will have priority for class registration until one week before the class begins, when registration opens to all other library cardholders.

A grand opening event for the space is scheduled for Sunday, October 26, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Tours and demonstrations of The Studio’s features and equipment will be included, along with creative projects to make at the DIY bar.