Peek Inside the Largest Art Studio Complex in Texas — South Austin’s Good Dad Studios
Learn how this vibrant art collective in Austin is empowering local artists through affordable studio spaces, creative initiatives, and community-driven growth
In the heart of artist-led Austin, Good Dad Studios has emerged as a lifeline for creatives struggling to find affordable studio space. Serving over 140 artists and home to 10 local businesses, this property has earned the title of Texas’ largest artist studio complex.
Despite its impressive success and growth, the cherished studio still needs community support to secure its future and continue to build on its achievements.
A not-so-pretty muse
GD Wright, a seasoned large scale structural artist, witnessed the challenges of rising rents and artist displacement quickly after his move to Austin seven years ago. This uninviting experience inspired him to create a better solution for his fellow creatives.
After meeting Calvin Chen—a property owner also eager to develop artist studio spaces but lacking a direct link to the community of artists looking for them—their shared vision led to a successful partnership. Together, Wright and Chen with the help of many artists from the community as well as a few major donors, repurposed an old insurance building right off of IH-35. By July 2023, Good Dad opened its doors and their shared dream had become a resource for the artistic community.
Since then, Good Dad Studios has achieved all Phase 1 milestones. It quickly filled its initial 68 studio spaces, surpassed financial goals, and nearly doubled its capacity to 101 studios. Additionally, the studio has since received notable local acclaim, including the Concept Animals Community Favorites Award, and has become a must-see destination on the Austin Studio Tour.
The communal creative haven
“It’s bigger than us,” Wright explained. The project has grown far beyond initial expectations, now encompassing the livelihoods of many other artists and adding a newfound responsibility for the Good Dad staff to manage. “With public art, I have a budget, a timeline, and a due date,” he said, contrasting this with his current project, which can be described as lengthy, challenging, but ultimately worthwhile.
Although the project has taken much longer than anticipated, Wright and Chen remain hopeful about guiding the studio toward self-sufficiency. The introduction of work-trade programs for residents helps to further reduce costs, while committees are in place to oversee the collective’s marketing and management. With these measures in place, the studio is steadily progressing toward its goals.
Good Dad Studios fosters artistic growth and an inclusive community
Every corner of the sprawling 43,000 sq ft facility buzzes with artistic energy, with creatives utilizing every nook and cranny. The building is meticulously designed with distinct areas representing different decades, including the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s through its finishes and decor, blending nostalgic elements with contemporary creativity.
Visitors can expect to encounter friendly, inspiring artists, a range of classes, intimate art groups to join, and a supportive community with open arms.
A prime example of this community spirit is Alicia Philley, a dedicated member who makes a significant impact. She currently rents a studio space for a group of working artists who are also parents and caregivers, hosting twice-monthly meetups to support each other. Alicia also offers two-month residencies to any member interested in showcasing their work, with no application or fee required. As Alicia puts it, “There are enough hurdles in life.” Thanks to her inclusive approach, every artist who has participated in a residency has successfully secured their own space in the studio.
Alicia isn’t the only advocate for inclusion among these artists. Rachel Cohen, another Good Dad studio space holder, is a passionate recreation therapist and founder of UNBOREDROOM, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting the inclusion of people with and without disabilities through the arts. Since 2019, the Cultural Arts Division has supported her organization. Rachel has created numerous opportunities for individuals of all abilities to engage in and benefit from the arts, including an apparel line made from art pieces!
Among the studio spaces, guests will find tattoo shops, pop-up markets, and even an exhibition from the Carver Museum Foundation ATX.
Support the future of Austin’s art scene
With over 400 studio inquiries received so far, Good Dad Studios highlights the strong demand for affordable studio space. Looking ahead, Wright and Chen aim to use their new fundraising campaign to expand and cater to Austin’s creative community by building a mixed-use space predominantly built from shipping containers. “What keeps us pushing and moving forward is the destination,” Wright explained. This expansion will aim to provide better ventilation to accommodate artists with noisier, messier tools working on large-scale projects.
In addition, part of the funds they are currently raising will support Austin’s first completely free art school. This initiative will allow resident artists to teach at-risk youth, and offer stipends to cover the studio costs of artist’s spaces in return. If they teach additional classes beyond the rent, it will become a source of income for them as well. The program aims to build a self-sustaining art community, where experienced artists mentor students, enriching both their practice and the lives of young aspiring artists.
Interested in supporting the mission to subsidize costs and advance the project? You can make a difference by donating through GoFundMe—every contribution counts. For those looking to volunteer or explore other donation opportunities, contact info@gooddadstudios.org. Experience Good Dad Studios firsthand, and attend their engaging monthly events—Second Saturday and Third Thursday.
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