An Interview with Artists and Slough City Studios Founders Ani and Bonnie Bonani.
KH: What inspired you to start Slough City Studios, and how did the vision for a shared creative space take shape?
sign at Slough City
Ani and Bonnie Bonani: We were inspired to start Slough City because we could feel the need for more creative spaces in Petaluma. We are both artists ourselves, and we were looking for a studio for our own creative practices and were unable to find anywhere available so we thought, well, let’s start a studio. If we need this then surely others need it too. We looked at 409 Petaluma Blvd S., and could see the vision perfectly based on the layout of the space. In addition to needing space to create, we also felt like there was an unmet need to have space to show and sell works. We thought a space that could house a gallery and a wonderful handmade things shop as well as private artist studios and a shared community workshop would provide the opportunity so many of us need to be supported and celebrated in our creative endeavors.
We knew putting all of this under one roof would allow a vibrant community of artists and art lovers to form and the potential for something really beautiful was too strong to walk away from. There are so many talented local artists who had never had the opportunity to have an art show or sell their work to the public, and we wanted to hold space for them and uplift their work.
KH: What kinds of artists or creative practices are currently represented in the studios?
AB and BB: The shop is growing in a really cool way; at this point we have handmade things by over 50 local artists and artisans: everything from candles made in-house to art shirts, skincare products, mosaic wall hangings, ceramics, encaustics, paintings, art cards, hand-painted purses, snarky cross stitches, handmade jewelry, block-printed patches, sun catchers, collages, and more!
free clothes at Slough City
KH: What does Slough City Studios add to the local creative ecosystem? What kind of energy or atmosphere are you cultivating, and how do you hope new artists will contribute to or benefit from that?
AB and BB: Slough City adds a judgement-free, all-ages space for creative humans; enthusiastic encouragement, support, and feedback; and tons of supplies.
KH: Are there still studios available? What should local artists know if they’re looking for space and community?
AB and BB: Folks should know Slough City Studios has two studios available at the moment, and artists have 24-hr access. You’re welcome to share a studio with a friend to keep it cost efficient, and we have no commitment requirements—if you want to rent for a month or so, that’s OK. We’ve had artists who have rented short term to work on commissions and larger pieces they can’t fit at home or in their current set-up. Each studio has ample room for an easel and/or desk and has at least one wall of pegboard for any organization lovers out there.
KH: What events do you host for the community, and what’s the philosophy behind your events—are they more about making, connecting, healing, or all of the above?
AB and BB: All of the above! Fridays are Queer Collage Night, Saturdays are the Community Craft Circle. We also work closely with the Queer Life Drawing Collective out of Santa Rosa and host their events every other month or so. We are absolutely open to hosting more events since we have such a wonderful space to hold them in. If readers are interested in hosting an event at Slough City, please reach out.
KH: What does a typical evening at Queer Collage Night look like? Do people need to bring anything or have experience with collage art?
AB and BB: People need only bring themselves but are welcome to bring anything they think they will want/need. Whether that’s a specific magazine, food and drinks, or a project they’ve already started. No experience necessary! As a drop-in “art hang,” people show up anytime from 4pm. If it’s your first time, we give you a brief run-down on where you will find the supplies you need (scissors, glue, etc.) and show you all the cut-up-able materials. From there, we let your creativity take over. Some people show up at 4pm and stay until 7pm, others may only pop in for an hour. It’s more important to us that people have space and community so despite the fact we ask for a suggested donation of $15, no one is ever turned away for a lack of funds. When people donate during our art hangs, the funds go back into the program; we get to buy more sticker books, candles, and glue sticks, and increase the amount of left-handed scissors on offer.
KH: Why do you feel this space is important for the queer community, especially right now? How do you create and maintain a sense of safety, joy, and inclusivity at these gatherings?
AB and BB: Spaces like Slough City are always important for the queer community, not just now. We are constantly underrepresented and often hidden by society. By being our unapologetically queer selves, we are being the change we want to see in this world. No one should have to hide or limit their sense of self to survive, and at Slough City, we aim to help our community thrive. Sometimes just knowing you’re not alone, that you belong and are welcome somewhere, can save a life.
KH: What are your hopes for the future of the studios and the events you’re building?
AB and BB: More momentum. We’ve seen something like Queer Collage Night go from a person here or there to a weekly constant. We want Slough City to be a hub that people in the Bay Area don’t want to miss out on; a hub that is worth the drive, where you’ll get met with a smile and as much conversation as you’re looking for.
KH: How can people get involved?
AB and BB: Our website has an opportunity to donate for “instant karma”. Also, people can follow us on social media and get onto the newsletter list. Pop in and say hello, buy art. Host a workshop here, join us for an art hang. Come to all the show openings. Tell people about us!
Slough City Studios
sloughcity.com
409 Petaluma Boulevard South, Suite C, Petaluma
(707) 870 9945
Open Wed–Sun 10am–6 pm
Closed Monday and Tuesday