Muses of East Austin Iron Gate Studios Austin Woman Magazine June 2006 By Erin Prather
The brainchild of three talented women, Iron Gate Studios is a non-profit art studio that provides both exhibition and workspace to artists. The studio is located in the Saltillo arts district of East Austin and resides behind a large iron gate that inspired its name.
Owners Kelcey Edwards, Elizabeth Spear, and Mary Quin Matteson, opened Iron Gate’s doors in 2003 and have spent the last three years learning the ups and downs of maintaining a service venue for the artistic community.
Explains Edwards, “The studio was created solely as a resource for artists. The three of us are not making money off this venture. Rental prices are reasonable because the struggling artist is kept in mind. Our goal is to break even and run the studio cooperatively with its advisory board.”
Edwards and Spear met during their time as interns at the Austin Film Society. After discussing the concept of creating an artistic “space” they asked photographer Matteson to be their third partner. Although the women originally worked on their own projects at Iron Gate, they have since vacated its premise in order to make room for others interested in utilizing the space.
“We forfeited our own offices to become fulltime studio owners,” said Spear. “We are now a volunteering administrative team that runs the space and all its myriad of applications. We’re not doing this because we’re martyrs, but because we love the studio and how it can help others.”
At the same time each pursue their own artistic aspirations. Matteson is focusing on graphic design and photography. Spear has several film projects in development. And Edwards recently wrote and directed Letter, an official selection of Austin’s 2006 SXSW Film Festival.
With regard to other studios, the ladies of Iron Gate say colleagues have been extremely supportive of their endeavor. Matteson points out that having an array of studios allows her to visit five locations in one night to view amazing shows.
Adds Edwards, “Running the studio has given me such an appreciation for those that have been around for years. Established studios and galleries, like Women and Their Work, have created an almost fellowship among the owners. By working together we help the artists we serve and our spaces. It’s very inspiring.”
Iron Gate offers its clients a community darkroom, projectors, offices, a large studio space with high ceilings, and a courtyard. The larger space has been utilized by both artists and non-profits who appreciate its affordability. Past clients have included renowned pop artist Derek Boshier, Reel Women, the Flatstuck Poster Convention, and artist Jacqueline May. The studio’s recently hosted the KVRX prom in May.
Iron Gate’s owners are determined to keep it open. While admitting it’s been difficult to keep the studio above water, they quickly reiterate their passion.
Said Spear, “Iron Gate is a winning establishment for the community. By providing a space for those interested in making an artistic contribution, the studio helps them create and share their endeavors. We are determined to make it succeed.”
Iron Gate Studios 2205 East 5th Street, Austin, Texas, 78702 info@irongatestudios.org www.irongatestudios.org
