Michele Spry
My "normal" work is that my husband, Brandon, and I are small business owners! Since 2001, we have created 5 locally owned and operated 5 small businesses, and that certainly keeps us busy! I also own Midway Mercantile Co., a Fused Glass business that I operated during nights and weekends!
I have always loved the arts and admire so much about the art world. Watching someone work on something in their respective medium is truly inspiring. Now that I am a Fused Glass Artist, I want to help others find their niche and/or passion within the art world. It's a great way to keep creative energy flowing, pushing ourselves to try new things while deep diving into a medium that you resonate with. Being able to give back to Access Arts and our community is something that makes me happy!
Adrienne Luther Johnson
Artist
She/Her
I am a muralist, illustrator, and graphic designer. I am also the marketing and events manager at Cafe Berlin. I primarily work with small business, but have some corporate clients, as well. I have been freelancing since college and joined the Cafe B team in 2020, where I met my husband, owner Samuel Johnson. I am inspired by nature and children’s art. In the summertime, I lead a craft session every Saturday morning at Cooper’s Landing.
I am always interested in ways to integrate art into the community and Access Arts inspires me to continue that work in whatever capacity – from donating my time to non-profits to teaching youth. I believe that all art is political and that my best art is made when it’s serving community. Access Arts values capture that, as well.
Dustin Hawkins
Videographer
He/Him
Dustin's full time job is a Video Production Strategist at Columbia College. On the side he does videography/photography work for both large corporations, small businesses and make indie films, under my Retro Hawk Productions organization.
"Access Arts is an example of what every community needs," he says. "A place where everyone's inner artist may be unlocked. No one should be denied the chance to dip their toe into the world of crafting, pottery, drawing, painting, building, etc. Many people don't even know what they are capable of until given the chance. Access Arts brings that opportunity to the people of all ages and circumstances. Helping an organization like this grow is a privilege and I'm excited to once again be a part of it."
