Arts & Entertainment
Mount Pleasant Artist's New Business is Her Dream-Come-True
What started as a hobby developed into a full blown passion and a new business opportunity.
Mount Pleasant resident and artist Samira Gdisis is the proud owner of a dream-come-true. This spring, her new studio, Black-Eyed Press, will open on 6th Street in the Downtown Racine art district.
This innovative new business will provide services that are difficult to find in the area. They will accommodate independent artists with a safe, ample and suitable work space and equipment, as well as an outlet to promote and sell their work.
"I traveled all over with my grandparents," Gdisis said while making the drive from Madison with her husband. They were hauling a 900-pound printing press to set up in the studio. "I've always loved art, but I didn't take a single class until four years ago."
Find out what's happening in Mount Pleasant-Sturtevantwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Eventually, Gdisis landed at University of Wisconsin-Parkside and graduated with a degree in psychology. She was happy about her accomplishment, but somehow knew that art was her real calling.
"I've been making hand bags out of my basement and painting murals in the homes of friends," she stated. "Black-Eyed Press is the dream business I've been planning for years."
Find out what's happening in Mount Pleasant-Sturtevantwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Black-Eyed Press is committed to community awareness, eco-friendly products and techniques as well as the support of its member artists. They will provide workshops, classes, art shows, exhibitions and a venue in which to create.
"The possibilities are endless," Gdisis added.
Kyle Smith is a senior at UW-Parkside looking forward to graduation this spring. He has joined Gdisis at Black-Eyed Press.
“I believe (Black Eyed Press) will allow artists who have already graduated and can't afford their own equipment the chance to continue working in these mediums," he said. "Artists right out of school can continue working and establish themselves as professional artists.”
Black-Eyed Press is currently seeking member artists to join the print shop and become a part of a community which appreciates, celebrates and recognizes the time, effort and talent it takes to pursue this challenging, but rewarding path.
Pricing, schedules, and membership applications can be found at the studio website.
