Story and Photos by Olivia Cameron
The Open Studio, located in the heart of Old Englewood, is home to eclectic minds
and eccentric styles. From workshops and art classes to organic foods and sustainable
products, the string of businesses is encompassed by a lush garden, perfect for
gatherings that follow safety guidelines.
The present owner of the art studio, Jean O’Neil, took ownership of the business after her
“retirement” lasted a mere couple of days.
Jean’s love of art all started with the experience she reluctantly obtained as a studio assistant
for a renowned sculptor.
“In our second class, he announced he needed a work study studio assistant, which sounded
so important I jumped over three people shouting, ‘I can do it.’ That was the beginning of
my love of clay. Of course, there was nothing glamorous about the job; it was hellishly hard
physical labor, making clay in a giant medal vat outside the studio in the winter in New
Hampshire. But with the risk came the reward.”
January/February • 2021 • GASPARILLA MAGAZINE 29