Artist/Owner
Carolyn Stich Studio
Holland, Mich.
Please share a little about your work as an artist.
I am always working on something new. Almost every evening I go home and create a new piece of art, until about 2 a.m. There are quite a few regulars who frequent my studio, so I like to have new images for them and our new guests. I love to create art that makes people happy through using bright colors and whimsical subject matter.
I understand you’re from Missouri. Why did you decide to base your business in Holland, Mich.?
My husband was transferred to Holland with his work 23 years ago and we quickly fell in love with the community.
Holland is such a beautiful community, surrounded by natural beauty, including Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa. Riding the bike paths throughout the area is a great way to find inspiration. I also find the residents of Holland are usually content to live in this area so they are generally happy people.
For the past two years I have had the privilege of being a downtown Holland merchant. I sell merchandise as well as original art in my studio. We also host many parties, team-building events and classes on-site.
Please share some info about the group experiences at your studio?
We offer a variety of stress-free art experiences in the studio. I like to add the stress-free because I find stress-free is the most important part of what we offer.
I try to keep in mind that not everyone creates art eight hours every day and they have not had the training or the desire I have for art, but yet they want a quick and easy art experience and they would like to have a final project they are proud to take home and say they created. With this in mind, we have canvas painting and glassware painting with easy steps and templates to follow so the more experienced as well as novice artists have a wonderful experience.
Do you have any tips for busy working people who would like to incorporate an artistic endeavor into their daily routine?
I love how coloring has taken off nationwide. Coloring is an easy, no-worries way to forget the day’s troubles and lose yourself in the wonderful world of colors. I would recommend coloring for everyone, especially busy working people.
I truly believe there is an artist in all of us, so once you’ve conquered the coloring books, try painting with acrylics or watercolors. Just remember, with art there are no mistakes. Just have fun and don't take it too seriously.