Studio Judy G, an art venue in the heart of downtown Watsonville, is aiming for the exit.
Following an April 1 goodbye party owner Judy Gittelsohn describes as a “wake,” the gallery, workshop, classroom and art hub will close permanently.
“I’m going into private practice,” she said while stacking up art supplies, paintings and furniture. “I opened on Aug. 20, 2021 and we had two opening parties. Mayor Jimmy Dutra cut the ribbon and there was live music by Rosa Azul. I think I must have put on 20 exhibitions.”
Located a few doors down from the former Taylor Office Supply at 430 Main St., Studio Judy G has been a hotbed for local art and local art topics, including a group show on the railroad, past and present.
The studio has featured visiting artists and served as a base for a number of art classes. Gittelsohn taught art classes with the Pajaro Valley Unified School District for middle and high school students.
She also taught for the Golden Paints company that manufactures paint.
“I’ve been a Golden Paints working artist since 2000 where I taught materials and techniques for their line of paint,” she said. “My sweet spot, though, is teaching art to people with special needs. And I am going to continue to do that at 280 Main Street at PV Arts. That will start up the first of April. It’s time to unwind. I’m closing a piece of me; it’s been a wonderful run.
The public is invited to the “wake” on April 1 at 3pm.
“Please bring remembrances, words and stories to share—tears, kisses, wishes, and love,” Gittelsohn said.For information, visit judyg.com or follow Gittelsohn on Instagram @judy.gittelsohn.
