Ending my Core Fellowship at the Penland School of Crafts this February, I made the big move north to Cleveland, OH to be with my other half, Liz, as she goes back to school. I am excited to start the next chapter of my life here, opening a studio and getting to know a new city.

I spent my first week in Cleveland driving around looking for places to rent for a studio. As a metalsmith, I was amazed at all the old industry. From steel yards to grinding shops, the area is so rich in industrial businesses, though many of the buildings are vacant. Driving up and down the streets I could not help but imagine what an incredibly thriving area it must of been at the height of its time.

At the end of the first week I found a studio that I was excited about. It is one bay, 1300 sq. ft. space. It is in a very industrial part of the city, which is good for me so I don't have to worry about noise or smoke from the coal forge. In fact, I think I would have to do a lot to disturb my neighbors seeing as though there is a 5,000 lb power hammer in use on my block. I have not seen it yet, but I have definitely heard it running.

I bought a plane ticket back to Massachusetts where my father and I loaded up a 16 ft. truck with my studio and some things for the house. I am not going to start renting the space until May 1st, but my landlord was kind enough to let me leave some of the bigger studio equipment there in the meantime. You can see below us unloading one of the drill presses, and my Southbend 9" lathe. It was a great surprise to find out that there was a forklift we could use.

Thanks very much Dad for all the help!