A. Massage Art is often therapy, but creating art can tighten the muscles and strain the body. Kim A. Pauling of A. Massage, studio 1 in building 9, wanted to bring the healing art of massage to the Pajama Factory to help ease those strains and aches. A licensed massage therapist since 2004, Kim received her degree from Allied Medical & Technical Institute. She has worked in fitness centers, on-site in workplaces, and now offers her own private studio dedicated to wellness. Massages are by appointment only. Visit our website for more information. |
Friends, Exciting news kicks off summer at the Pajama Factory! For starters, we now have over 50 tenants working here – the largest number yet – and we seem to grow more and more each day. Our second year of the Artist-in-Residence program is welcoming 13 artists from all over the country for the months of June and July. And thousands of visitors have streamed through our doors – attending events, exhibits, First Fridays or just strolling the halls to visit artist studios. All are discovering our hidden gem here in Williamsport. A gorgeous wedding took place earlier this month in the Pajama Factory courtyard (congratulations to the happy couple!). While it was the second wedding here, this time the reception was held in the newly renovated Public Art Academy space adjacent to the courtyard. This fabulous space is available to rent for special events so spread the word. Also keep in mind that we have a theater/sound stage available to rent as well (for special occasions) – at least until it is rented out to a more permanent tenant. Come by this summer and see for yourself all that is happening and don't miss the Artists-in-Residence show on July 30th. Hope to see you then. – Mark and Susie Winkelman |
Tenants Are Busy Around the Factory
Our tenants are at the center of this community—enjoying evening gatherings in the courtyard, painting, printing, teaching, and working. Here's a sampling of some recent activities:
Summertime invites us out to enjoy the blooming courtyard, and our monthly tenant BBQ's are in full swing. On the last Friday in April, Pennsylvania Rep. Rick Mirabito addressed a group of 20 or more tenants and family members about current government initiatives which affect our community, like the recently passed small business incubator bill, and the state of the budget. Following his talk, the group enjoyed a pot-luck buffet – the first of many for the summer.
Walls are erected, plumbing is installed, and the lights will soon go out in the Williamsport Community Darkroom, housed within Street Light Photography's studio 6. The Darkroom's mission is to offer an inspirational and educational workspace for anyone interested in learning or advancing their skills in black and white film photography. A grand opening is planned to coincide with August's First Friday celebration. Many thanks to Ralph Wilson for his mammoth efforts to offer this addition to our community.
First Friday showings, usually an integral part of the Pajama Factory's events, took a field trip in June to various galleries in downtown Williamsport. "Industriata" was the Pajama Factory's artists' invitational exhibition, showcasing work from 11 artists with studio space at the Pajama Factory. Participating were Marshall Harris, Matthew Parrish, Liz Runyan, Chad Andrews, Robert "Bo" Bower, Treyci Bower, Mark Winkelman, Ralph Wilson, Gordon Wenzel, Becky Reiser, and Joanne Landis. First Friday will return to the Pajama Factory in August, with a special focus on photography.
First Friday @ the Pajama Factory, May 2010
Bald Eagle Art League Fills Floating Gallery With Student Artwork
The Floating Gallery came alive with color and imagination during the Bald Eagle Art League's (BEAL) inaugural Student Art Exhibit. Student artists from 18 public and private schools in Lycoming County displayed work they created throughout the school year. Michael Worobec, BEAL President, noted that more than 250 pieces were entered into the show.
“Looking over the many works submitted, the abundant examples of creative problem-solving, active learning, plus imitative and creative imagination, were refreshing and encouraging to see,” said Worobec. “[It's] evidence that the visual arts are alive and well in the hearts, minds, and lives of young children.”
Recognizing our Historical Significance
May's First Friday held additional significance: the Pajama Factory held a special reception to celebrate eligibility for "Individual Listing as an Important Historic Building by the Department of the Interior." National Preservation Month was the perfect time to recognize the building's importance throughout history and today.
Construction Update
In response to overwhelming interest for studio space in the Pajama Factory, construction was recently completed on an additional 12,000 square feet in Building 7. Ten new spaces – most of which were pre-leased before construction even began (just two are currently available for lease) – are ready for new tenants to move in. Seven new storage units were included and are available for rent as well, and a tenant lounge area is nearly complete.
We're happy to welcome new tenants moving in, including visual artists, a printing company, a marketing and design studio, jewelers, and Skills of Central PA, a non-profit organization that serves people with disabilities in central Pennsylvania.
Coming Attractions
With the arrival of our Artists-in-Residence comes the anticipation of their work! June and July brings 13 new artists to live in the area and work in the building. Our residents come from across the United States—New York and Connecticut to New Mexico and California. Get to know all of the artists online.
Jakub Makalowski, Chelsea Coon, Emily Bowser, Jennifer Gunlock, Daniel Bilodeau, Sophie Grant
Their stay in Williamsport will culminate with the PAA Resident show on July 30, 2010, from 5-7 PM in the Public Art Academy space at the Pajama Factory. We look forward to seeing you there!
– Mark and Susie Winkelman