Linda Batchelor: Endings and changes

After 30 years at One Cottage Street Studios, I turned in my keys and moved my art studio practice into my house. It was a grueling job both physically and emotionally, but I felt the move was necessary due to a surprise 50% rent increase.

This increase announcement was followed by an April 30 meeting with the Riverside president and staff at which our situation and ideas for mutually beneficial solutions were not taken into account. This was the only meeting we were offered and I decided at that time that I would move.

I’m hoping that I can re-create a space that is conducive to my work as a printmaker and collage artist, but the loss of community is huge. Not only are the other artists my dear friends, but we shared resources and I learned so much from them. The relationship with Riverside staff and clients also was an important part of our experience.

I will miss all of it but hope to find a way forward that will save the arts in Easthampton. I welcome the opportunity, in concert with local and statewide community members and organizations, to be part of our new incarnation. Thanks to everyone both within and outside the studios who are working tirelessly to save our studios.

Linda Batchelor

Florence