Guest House

Hey folks,

I shared about this on Instagram a bit ago and then with my list, but since I just brought my website back to life, I'll share it here now. As you may know, I'm very abruptly needing to move my studio. It was inevitable as the building I have been in is literally falling apart around me. The rooms on either side of me have black mold from the roof leaking and things like our sink being broken have been left neglected for months. Although this caught me by surprise, it probably shouldn't have.

There are a lot of threads involved, but generally actions and choices I made years ago that seemed like the right thing to do at the time, have been tripping me up for sometime, and are all coming to a head now. I can't go too much into detail about it now but I need help getting through this. 

I've been in the same space since 2010 so packing up and moving is a daunting task. I also realize, what I want to do is set up a community work space. One of the main reasons I have stayed in the Potsdam area is because I look at the space we have and see potential. I've worked in community spaces all over the country and every time I come home I wonder, "why not here?" I now have advice on how to start one from someone who recently set one up and am checking out locations. So far nothing I have looked at is move in ready. Walls either need to be removed or added and plumbing and electrical work will be necessary wherever I go.

How I will do all this is not yet clear, but I'm making progress every day. I need to finish up the 50% completed projects I haven't been able to focus on because I have been dealing with this. I need cash to cover the costs of how this is going down and I would rather sell off the art I have then move it. 

I'm not sure when but I'm thinking I'm going to create some albums on Facebook of the 2-d art I have available. I also have some large paintings and a folding screen I would love to find new local homes for. I would offer to ship the larger pieces but I don't think I have the energy or time to do so. So If you would like to come by some time to look at whats available, just let me know. I'll consider all offers and can certainly do payment plans. 

In the meantime, all Etsy purchases are super extra appreciated. https://www.etsy.com/shop/saraelynch For folks who purchased something last week, thank you! I'm currently packing up those orders and will let you know when they go out.

If you or someone you know is interested in a starting a community workspace in the Potsdam area, let me know. It doesn't have to be art either. If you are in need of space for something, let's talk.

If you just want to contribute a few $ towards helping me create a community space, my paypal email is saraelynch@gmail.com or you can use this link here https://www.paypal.me/saraelych

Thanks for reading,

-Sara
 

Ps: Here's the poem that the title of this post is from, in case you were wondering...

The Guest House

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.

Be grateful for whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

— Jellaludin Rumi,
translation by Coleman Barks