My Biz: Artisan Insight opens a creative space
NORTH LIBERTY — Roxanne Erdahl has a long history as a business owner and life coach in the Corridor. But her latest venture is providing a creative outlet for herself and others.
Erdahl, 75, along with two business partners, Anna Rohde and Chase Haldeman, have opened Artisan Insight Studios in North Liberty.
“What we want to do is bring together our unique experiences and perspectives and create a space that allows people time for self-discovery, creativity and celebrating artistic expression,” Erdahl said. “They can come and explore their own creative potential. I love seeing people come in and realize that there is creativity within each and every one of us.”
The studio opened in October and has been hosting groups and individuals for pottery painting and candle making. Walk-ins are welcome during open hours (Wednesdays through Sundays) or reservations can be made.
Large rooms for gatherings and workshops (of up to 30 people) in the space hold exciting potential for more fun things in the new year, Erdahl said.
People of all ages and skill levels are welcome at Artisan Insight Studios, she added.
“We call this a judgment-free zone. We want people to be able to come in and you can have never had a paintbrush in your hand and sit down and just start painting,” she said. “Or you can have more of an art background and come in and get in the zone.
“We want this to be a place where you can just be a human being rather than a human doing. I think that we have this perception that only certain people are creative, and the reality is each of us are creative and so the ability to be able to see that come out in people is my greatest joy.”
Collaboration
Chase Haldeman, creative director and master candlemaster, pours gingerbread scent into hot wax while employee Elizabeth Dobbs stirs the wax as the two make a candle Nov. 29 at Artisan Insight Studios in North Liberty. (Savannah Blake/The Gazette)
The studio, Erdahl said, is a collaborative venture “built on generations of entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and a shared vision for fostering community through art,” she said. “The leadership team, each deeply rooted in local business traditions, brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to this innovative space in the heart of the community.”
Erdahl, the studio director, is a third-generation business owner with a rich history in retail.
For 25 years, she owned and operated Buc’s, a gift shop in downtown Iowa City. She also has been a certified life and business coach for the past 20 years and also is certified in the work of Brené Brown, all of which, she said, will be a part of workshop plans in the new year.
Rohde, who serves as the studio’s artistic director and manages the pottery painting offerings, also is a third-generation business owner.
“Anna’s vision as a practicing artist and businesswoman helps her to see the pottery and kiln area operates seamlessly, providing an inspiring experience for all participants,” Erdahl said.
Haldeman, a fourth-generation business owner in Iowa City, serves as the creative director and manages the candle making options at the studio.
Sparking joy
Erdahl said she and her partners all hope the shared space will spark joy, creativity and a sense of belonging for everyone who walks through the door.
“Together, this team has created Artisan Insight Studios to be more than a place to make art,” she said. “Our goal is to cultivate a welcoming environment where creativity and community thrive.
“We want people to discover that everyone has the ability to be creative. It’s about embracing that part of ourselves that allows us to have fun, explore, and connect.”
Know a business that should be considered for a “My Biz” feature? Let us know by emailing mary.sharp@thegazette.com.
Artisan Insight Studios
Directors: Roxanne Erdahl, Anne Rohde, Chase Haldeman
Address: 740 Community Dr., Suite B, North Liberty
Phone: (319) 626-2239
Website: artisaninsightstudios.com
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