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Our 2026-27 season opened with a solo exhibition from Cloudland super sculptor Layla McBeen. The reception was packed with friends and supporters, and Layla proved to be an excellent host- demonstrating her interactive games in the hands on “arcade” and explaining her process to curious viewers. Prior to the event I invited Layla to lead the installation, having her direct where pieces should go and how to light them effectively. After 20+ years of gallery work I have lost count of how many shows I have hung, but never would I have I considered some of Layla’s concepts in grouping and layout. As a co-worker Layla was indispensable, totally professional and inspiring to work with. The show has continued to be a hit for the Cloudland students now working in the space. Statements like: “she made allll of this?”, and “She’s only 7!?”, really reiterate the power of public-facing art shows. There is certainly pride and satisfaction for the maker in seeing their work on the wall, but the ability to empower the viewer to see potential in themselves is the real superpower. The current batch of students will be gearing up for their end-of-series show. Upcycle Fashion has an interpretation on Avant-Garde draping, Sculpture Lab got spooky with doll parts, and Illustration Studio has some dreamy wet-on-wet watercolor projects to share. If you would like to read a full interview with Layla about her process, you can find it here on the website. The next seven week series begins 10/19 and is open for registration now. Please note that we will not have classes during the Thanksgiving break:) Hope to see you at the studio! Beth
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