Maria’s Schoolhouse Studio is the focal point of the Open House weekend, it was a one-room schoolhouse in nearby Shushan moved to the farm about 50 years ago, it was used as a workshop and storage space, when we bought this farm, we renovated it so Maria could use it as a studio. It is crammed with beautiful things – scarves, hanging pieces, potholders, sketches, notecards, paintings and photos. We believe in good art that is affordable, it was one of the ideas behind starting the Open Houses.

Hanging in front of the studio is Maria’s “yes-no” dress, there are hundreds of studded nails sticking out of it, it signified her attitude towards men (and me) when we first met. She was a “yes-no” girl for sure, I wanted more “yes” and eventually got her to marry me. It remains a powerful symbol of her ambivalence towards the art world as well as her visceral mistrust of most men.

Maria could not live without a studio, I can’t imagine her not having her own artistic and personal space. We met when I gave her use of the Studio Barn at the other farm in exchange for help with the animals. A studio is as much a part of her as breathing. Maria has always seen the Open Houses as a chance to display the work of other artists, and a bunch will be on display over the weekend, you can read about them here.

I love the idea that this gifted person has chosen to evolve with me, it is a great compliment in my mind. This dress is like an old battle flag, it is no longer necessary. I am always happy to see a stream of people pouring into Maria’s studio, she loves curating art shows, takes it seriously, does it well.