www.qns.com i LIC COURIER i January 2017 37 order supplies from anywhere in the country and online prices are usually cheaper, according to Sparks. Materials for online purchases are shipped from the flagship store in Maine. Employees will also stock up on supplies that specific artists need. If a customer is working on a project and needs a unique item for a sustained period of time, Jussen will work with the artist to coordinate shipments. Anxiety has risen among local artists about the rising rents for studios and Sparks has heard chatter about artists moving further out into Queens or, in some instances, Brooklyn for more affordable space. “In the beginning it was, ‘We can get studio space out here and now I’m hearing more and more, ‘I’m going farther out into Queens,’” Sparks said. “Even Greenpoint seems a little but cheaper for people studio-wise.” But Artist & Craftsman Supply has continued to give out discounts and hopes to foster a stronger relationship with the Long Island City community. They’ve donated supplies to the local YMCA and Sunnyside Gardens Park and have donated poster board to those participating in the Women’s March on Washington. “I think people are just really happy to have a source of materials and supplies much closer than they normally would,” Jussen said. “We’ve had strong reaction from the families in Sunnyside and we do try to reach out to the community and sort of make sure they’re aware that were a resource for them.” If you are interested in teaching a class or asking a question about supplies, visit the Artist & Craftsman Supply website. Art
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