On Friday I toured the FSU Master Craftsman Studio with some of the Jump Start Plan X Team members, and took my camera with me. I wanted to share my photos with you! But first, let me tell you about the Vision for this world-class facility, which can be an exciting and very real possibility for Tallahassee. One of the primary assets of the Master Craftsman Studio is its location on Gaines Street at the western end of the street's planned revitalization. It is also situated next to a non-functioning CSX rail spur. Both FSU and the city are interested in obtaining the property, which could then be developed into a Boxcar-Village containing a number of studio apartments for resident artists using donated boxcars. In addition, it is located adjacent to a beautiful, serene lake. Tallahassee's economy would be positively affected in a number of ways by both the Master Craftsman Program and related economic activities it can generate.
For instance, the studio's planned Fire Arts Pavilion will have a continuously running glass studio that will light up the sky, attracting both locals and visitors alike to the Gaines Street location and surrounding newly revitalized area. This cultural tourism will foster the creation of other businesses, like restaurants, and provide them with an opportunity to thrive. In addition, many talented artists will bring their skills to Tallahassee through the Master Craftsman Residency program for graduate artisans. It is expected that these artists will then create even more businesses in which new artwork will be produced and sold. Associated with all of this is the Master Craftsman Incubation Project. This program will help resident artists set up new hot glass businesses so that interested people are educated about glass art and can acquire basic training to produce their own work. The influx of prominent artists and the training of new ones, along with the creation of thriving businesses will also help Tallahassee attract and retain other creative minds. By combining the resources of the Master Craftsman Program with those of the city and Florida State University, our community will have an innovative method of economic redevelopment that will serve as a model for other communities to follow.
The success of these programs will also demonstrate to prospective businesses that Tallahassee is willing and able to support new and innovative cultural activities. So, without any further delay, come along with me on my photo tour of the FSU MC Studio Just click on the thumbnails for a larger picture and more information about what you're looking at. My next camera tour will be of the Rail Road Square area off Gaines and Railroad Avenue. Stay tuned....
Best Regards,
Cynthia Marie VanLandingham
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