Elgin's Side Street Studio Arts recognized as a local innovator
Side Street Studio Arts, an arts venue in downtown Elgin, was recently recognized by the Create, Innovate, Ignite Series and Summit as a local innovator.
Erin Rehberg and Amanda Harris of Side Street Studio Arts offered their perspective on why the studio was chosen for this honor.
Q. Tell us about Side Street Studio Arts. When was it started? What does it do specifically?
Side Street Studio Arts. Side Street Studio Arts, at 15 Ziegler Court in Elgin, was co-founded in 2013 by Erin Rehberg and Tanner Melvin. Amanda Harris has joined as an additional co-director. All three work cohesively together, each executing distinctly different duties in the day-to-day operation. It was created to serve as an outlet for the Elgin local and surrounding arts scene. The studio hosts anything from battle of the bands to poetry flow, to art showings and plays and dance. The directors and staff all have extensive college backgrounds, ranging from professional acting, photography, composing and performing music, teaching and dance.
Q. You are identified as an innovator; what ways have you demonstrated creativity/innovation? How have you/do you promoted and encouraged creativity, imagination in others?
SSSA. Studio Arts has carved out the perfect location to provide the blank canvas for local artists. We have learned to listen and use our own backgrounds in the arts to bring forth what the artist is trying to say. Mentoring is one of our best skills.
Q. Do you think creativity/innovation is important in your field? Why?
SSSA. Absolutely! Creativity and innovation are the benchmarks of the art world. The ability to take an idea and present it in such a way that the public is able to become part of the vision is paramount to every artist, whether using written, painting, photography, dance or other expressive modes.
Q. What resources/relationships have you found important in your endeavors?
SSSA. We have found ourselves connecting schools, colleges, other art avenues, bands, dance troupes and individuals whom we collaborate with to bring their own creations to life. Two key words have been eclectic and open. We maintain an open mind when choosing to work with artists. If you can dream it, we have the staff to help you make it a reality. We have learned to utilize social media as another way to spread the word and keep in touch with local artists.
Q. What advice would you give others who want to foster creativity in the arts in the Elgin area?
SSSA. The main thing we have done is keep our finger on the pulse of the local art scene. We remain open to any and all submissions. Stand ready to help the artist help themselves, not do it for them. Be ready to mentor and keep your product affordable and accessible.
Q. How can readers find out more information about Side Street Studio Arts?
SSSA. Call (847) 429-2276 or visit www.sidestreetstudioarts.org/.
About Create, Innovate, Ignite
The Create, Innovate, Ignite Series and Summit is an Elgin-based initiative designed to recognize creativity and innovation and develop plans to foster and sustain it.
The primary convening partners for this initiative are Hamilton Wings, Elgin Community College and Gail Borden Library, along with a planning committee and subcommittees made up of local leaders and community volunteers.
This is the first in a yearlong series of monthly recognition of area innovators.
For details, visit <a href="http://www.hamiltonwings.org">www.hamiltonwings.org</a>.