TwinState MakerSpaces, Inc., the nonprofit organization that operates the Claremont MakerSpace, is pleased to announce that Amity Olis has been selected as the February / March Artist in Residence.
Amity recently attended one of the last automotive upholstery schools in the country. Amity’s career started in a very different world: as a CPA. Years in the accounting business provided her many opportunities, but Amity was looking to branch out into new realms, leaving the computer desk behind.
“I heard there was a shortage of young folks going into upholstery and there was a need,” Amity said. “It’s been the perfect balance of right brain left brain. I absolutely love how hard and hands on it is.”
“Amity will be able to access education, 21st Century tools and an enthusiastic network of creatives during her residency. In turn, she will share her knowledge and create some awesome projects,” states Brendan Dangelo, director of education and workforce development at the Claremont MakerSpace.
Amity will be creating a project using a wide variety of shops, tools, education and resources across multiple disciplines.
“I’ll be making a bench seat from scratch with inspiration from 1950s American car upholstery. The frame will be mixed steel/wood, the foam will be shaped by hand, and then the cover will be patterned and shaped to the foam and stitched with an industrial walking foot sewing machine.”
For more information about the Claremont MakerSpace, including application information for the next Artist In Residence Program and our upcoming open house schedule, please visit: www.claremontmakerspace.org. The Claremont MakerSpace is located at 46 Main Street in Claremont, and is open weekdays from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. The general public are welcome to stop in for tours of the facility.
As your daily newspaper, we are committed to providing you with important local news coverage for Sullivan County and the surrounding areas.