Community Life

We invite you to take a look at the "Community Life" feature of the Artspace website. Artspace buildings are lively, vital artist communities and our intention here is to offer a glimpse of the building-wide events and community activities happening in Artspace projects across the country.

Tashiro-Kaplan Impressions

I made the move to Pioneer Square and the Artspace Tashiro-Kaplan Artist Lofts in May of 2004. It is quite a contrast, considering my art studios have been in Seattle's Fremont distict since 1972. There is much to love and get used to here.The trucks, busses, cars, and planes create a clamor. The gulls, crows, and pigeons are more reliable than roosters at waking me around five every morning. Such is City Life.

The view from my deck is stunning. I have an unobstructed view of the Gospel Mission, the Public Defenders Office, and the Parking Garage. My morning jog to the waterfront is a joy. The sunlight strikes the buildings, boats, water, and mountains differently every day.

The International District nearby offers a tapestry of people and food that is astounding. All imaginable characters from tight-ass suits to sad homeless brothers. It is a treasure house for writers.

The Tashiro-Kaplan Artist Lofts have me surrounded with more talent than I have ever met: dancers, musicians, painters, sculptors, photographers, and architects. All contained in 50 units. As a painter,sculptor, maskmaker and writer I see opportunity for collaboration constantly. Yeah, I'm lovin' it.

I had the honor of being the first featured artist in our showcase The Vandenbrink Community Room. You can see my work at www.maskmadness.com

Roger Robert Wheeler

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