INK ON INC. – September 2024

by TASI Executive Director, Greg Busceme, Sr.

The original members of The Art Studio, Inc. included Suzanne Garrett, Greg Busceme Sr. and Sandi Laurette. Photo by John Fulbright.

              When the Studio began, it was about providing a space for the creative growth of Artists and connecting them with the community. Over the years, the scope of the Studio evolved into dealing with the emotional issues of being artistic – feeling isolated and alone in a world of which we try to make sense. The Art Studio is an incubator for creativity and a hot house for individual growth. This is where creativity can find fertile ground. We have seen some amazing growth in the artists, musicians, and writers in Southeast Texas. The Studio has offered a haven for creatives to express their genre and find affirmation of their efforts.

The Studio means so much to so many. People of all ages find a bond with our facility. No matter where the facility has been, there is always a warm welcome to anyone walking through our door. Through the educational program that boasts a wide variety of classes, we also offer community service program for students, for a multitude of reasons, and we are happy to provide the facility for them to earn their credit.  Recent developments have opened a lot of possibilities with Art Therapy, and we are at the ready for any therapists who could utilize the facility. 

What makes TASI unique among other organizations is our recognition of so many disciplines from the visual to the literal and performing arts. For over 30 years we have presented Band Nite where local musicians present their own music on stage. Only original music is allowed. This is an incredible incubator for musicians to try their work out on a real audience with a real sound and light system.

We design our classes for the person who has a curiosity of the subject and nothing else. The classes are for the friends who have a wild hair and decide they want to try clay or another medium. Our requirement for studio space is that you have determination to be a diligent and dedicated student of Art.

Like a brooding hen, we incubate the fledgling artist, whatever their discipline. What we get is a seemingly infinite flow of individuals seeking something beyond everyday life. Art, Music, Literature, and Theater are ways we can affirm our humanity, find focus in our lives, and expand our knowledge of …everything.