Sometimes the universe throws out change and growth where we least expect it to. Such is the case with the unlikely chaos which Superstorm Sandy brought to Scott Van Campen and his wife, D.B. Lampman. After having operated New York Fabricators for 12 years at 450 Front Street on the North Shore, the couple were left with total destruction to the premises. However, these business owners saw a ray of light and turned around their situation into envisioning this 6,000 ft. space into a creative space for the community.
Offering workshops in welding, woodshop, a computer lab, sewing space, shared work and project spaces, a conference room as well as private studios, S.I. Makerspace offers something for everyone ! The membership based facility is made up of artists, inventors, engineers, tech geeks, film makers, photographers, and sculptors. These “makers” have harnessed the recognition in most regions of the city for their creations and contributions to the North Shore neighborhood they occupy.
Classes for 2015 are in full swing and cater to many levels, age groups, and varied interests. Here’s a quick rundown of what is being offered so far:
Intro to digitaltechnology workshops on Wednesdays 7-8:30. These include 3D Printing and 3D Modeling.
Basic MigWelding is also offered on Wednesdays from 6:30 – 9:30, however participants must be over 18 to join. Machining classes are offered Saturdays from 12:30-3:30. On Every Tuesday from 6-9 p.m.,, Women, Welding, and Wine takes place place. This workshop includes wine tastings by Lori Honor of Honor Wines while participants walk away with their own handmade wine racks. Sewing classes for kids and teens as well as adults are offered Saturday mornings and Thursday evenings in February . S.I. Makerspace even has Valentine’s weekend covered with a class , “Couple’s Welding” being offered with a champagne toast included!
But what is most impressive this year is a program being offered entitled The Otherworld Intercultural Theatre Workshops. It seems that this organization hasn’t forgotten anyone, even if they are half way around the world! Girls in Staten Island, India, and Chile will be participatingin an initiative to create a theatre community using global drama exchange of international video and performance. A truly inspiring and contagious explosion of creativity for Staten Island’s North Shore Community.
For more information regarding S.I. MAKERSPACE, contact them via email at db@simakerspace.com or call (718)-273-3951.
