We talk with Pedro Melendez and Alex Garcia about building Makers Guild Inc into a judgment-free home for artists in Manhattan, Kansas, with low-barrier classes and community events that make creativity easier to access. We also get personal about how pottery and mixed media art can support mental health, especially for veterans and military families looking for a real outlet.
• why Makers Guild Inc forms and what “judgment-free” means in practice
• keeping artists in Manhattan by creating space to make and show work
• the long-term vision for residencies, studios, and broader art classes
• teaching affordable pottery classes through UFM and why donations matter
• Pedro’s story of military service and using art to process trauma
• helping veterans find their voice and exploring potential VA support
• Alex’s approach to mixed media art and making beauty from hard subjects
• Colores De Mi Corazón as a free public exhibit celebrating heritage
• Dates, location, and planned performances and artist talks
The website is themakersguildinc.com. It’s not INK; it’s INC.
GMCF
CFAs
