General News
7 September, 2022
Rusty Spanner Studio celebrates
RUSTY Spanner Studio celebrated its first birthday over the weekend with the help of neighbouring businesses which have injected new life in to the historic Johnstone Court.
RUSTY Spanner Studio celebrated its first birthday over the weekend with the help of neighbouring businesses which have injected new life in to the historicJohnstone Court.
Studio owner Chelsea Pope set up a prominent display of her works with live music from ‘Witch 3’ as part of the celebration on Saturday.
Fellow Johnstone Court inhabitants Greavesys Fruit and Veg hosted Jun’s Home Kitchen, celebratory specials were held at Terang Country Bakery and new products available at the newly-opened Once Upon a Chair.
Each of the businesses donated door prizes and popped bubbly to usher in a year since the doors opened at the studio.
“I wanted to have a celebration when I first opened but that was during COVID-19 restrictions, so it was quite difficult,” MsPope said.
“I thought making the birthday a bigger celebration would be a good idea.
“My neighbouring businesses have been so supportive, and I like to support them.
“I think local businesses supporting each other are how all small towns should function.”
Ms Pope said she was “extremely proud of herself” for taking the leap to open Rusty Spanner Studio in Johnstone Court.
Speaking with WD News in October 2021, she said she had originally made the decision to open the business due to the uncertainty surrounding the viability of markets, where she had been selling her art, due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Locals have since thrown support behind the growing use of Johnstone Court and the increased prevalence of artistic venturesin town.
“I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me,” Ms Pope said.
“I had no idea how it would go when I started. I first signed a six month lease because I had no idea but I wanted to test the waters.
“That went really well so I signed up for an extra year on top of that.
“It’s created a vibe, and I think everyone is really enjoying it.”
Ms Pope creates her artistic sculptures almost entirely from recycled metals, making her own impact on cutting down on waste and giving rubbish a new lease on life.
“It feels amazing to put smiles on people’s faces,” she said.
“Knowing I’ve made all my art from recycled materials, which is otherwise rubbish, and turning it in to something people can love and appreciate is pretty awesome.”