Author: GeneratorVt

  • Parker Silver

    Parker Silver

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    MEMBER SPOTLIGHT – PARKER SILVER

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Parker began their artistic journey as a Creative Media student, in their senior year working as an assistant curator, under Chris Thompson, Generator founder and former Executive Director. As assistant curator for Champlain College’s CCM Gallery, Parker assisted with over twenty-five exhibitions and curated five of their own, this experience informed their views on the power of compelling yet accessible curation: “Curated exhibitions should be accessible to everyone, so if there is a deeper meaning people can reach that but also people can just enjoy art as it is, without the pressure to experience it in a certain way”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]After graduation, Parker continued in arts administration, becoming an event coordinator for the BCA, and later the artist service coordinator for the Flynn in 2018, experiences bolstered by a Master’s in Museum and Gallery Studies from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland from 2017-2018. In 2020, after an isolating but reflection-filled pandemic start, Parker founded Hi Ho Silver Works, their personal brand of gothic art, apparel, and stickers.

    Parker’s style, as they describe it, is a mix of Courage the Cowardly Dog and Dragon Age, where natural elements, textures and darkness bring movement into static material. “I’m like the granny goth who sits with you while you look at the abyss, holding your hand while it stares back at you. My work is playful and funny but also emotional.”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12752″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][vc_column_text]This intersection bleeds into Parker’s performance. As a Burlesque dancer who performs under the title Grimm Noir, Parker leans into the illusory power of costume and tease, playing with natural elements to discover the magic of the world around us.

    As a business owner, artist and performer, Parker is often pulled in many directions. But their strategy is simple: “I don’t do anything I don’t want to do. Being black and being queer, there is so much power and joy in rest, something that has historically been denied. I prioritize what fulfills me and gives me value, and construct my life based on work that feels joyful.”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12751″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Having access to tools and space at Generator has been critical to Parker’s development as an artist, where both speed and the material possibilities have amplified their artistic world. As a Chris Thompson mentee, Parker has long known of Generator, but has been truly embedded in the community over the last months: “Generator’s access has been super helpful for me to hit the ground running with my business.” They have mastered the laser cutter and are excited to discover the possibilities of acrylic and resin down the road.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12753″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]As for what lies ahead, Parker is stepping into a development associate role with JAG Productions, a black theater company based in White River Junction, focused on bringing black playwrights and theater productions to the Upper Valley. Parker has performed for JAG before, but will be behind the curtain in this new role, helping forge a sustainable growth path and build a thriving community for the organization. Parker will also be pursuing a doctorate program in visual arts with international residencies starting in September, focused on arts philosophy and topographical studies to build a global art perspective.

    As Parker preps for grad school, a new part-time role at JAG, holiday production around the corner, and an event at Mainstreet Landing to plan, it seems there is little they aren’t doing. When we asked Parker what they are most looking forward to, they made sure to remind us that they love all their children equally. As Parker put it: “I’m proud but never satisfied. All I really need is to have a nice garden, spend time with friends, organize events, make art and help the world.”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • David Stoltz and Alex Brumlik

    David Stoltz and Alex Brumlik

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    MEMBER COLLABORATION – DAVID STOLTZ and ALEX BRUMLIK

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]David Stoltz and Alex Brumlik, two Generator studio members, have teamed up to create wooden figures for David’s latests cultural piece: “A Ride On The Carousel a Circus of Life”

    David Stoltz grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and was always interested in art: “I’ve been a sculptor since I was practically three years old.” While his peers multitasked, David was singularly focused, spending his days sketching and crafting. By thirteen, he was already working under Maccabi Greenfield, an artist who ran in circles with legendary abstract expressionists like Jackson Pollock. After several other apprenticeships, David’s style emerged: a motion-filled, playful abstractionism, where “everything is about negative and positive space, weight and balance, the essence of what I do being form.” He eventually graduated to larger pieces and steel installations, similar in style to his previous work but drastically different in their medium. He relocated to Vermont to pursue an opportunity as an artist-in-residence at Bennington College, where he continued making, finding room for vibrant characters and dynamic figures.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12742″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Since joining Generator, David’s medium exploration has exploded. He went from working from his own steel knowledge to collaborating with expert Generator members and staff to bring his pieces to life in forms he could have never imagined. Seamus Hannan and Alex Hahl have made it possible for David to CNC and engineer his complex structures, while Chris Jeffrey has made it possible to create stained-glass versions of David’s structures. Alex Hahl has been working with David since he joined Generator, helping him craft, weld and create, mostly in steel. Alex began working with David as a freelancer, but has transitioned into a more permanent role at Generator and has enjoyed the collaboration. Seamus’ woodworking skills and business sense have allowed for productive collaboration, and made 3D printed figures possible. Both Alex and Seamus have played big roles in David’s latest piece, and most recently, David is collaborating with Alex Brumlik to breathe life into his newest project.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12744″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Alex has always been a maker. What started as a way to spend time with his grandmother, whittling away at blocks on his front porch, has transformed into a craft of passion, where Alex found freedom, agency and creativity in woodworking. Engineering and metal work were his first passions, but a desire to avoid a sedentary lifestyle and a nudge from his father’s partner, world-renowned jeweler Suzan Rezac, led him to pursue a degree at the Vermont Woodworking School. Although reluctant at first, Alex grew to love the medium: “There’s something about wood, it’s organic, friendly, tactile, which means you really have to work with it.” His attention to detail and precision earned him a reputation as a perfectionist in the shop. He spent hours and hours refining his pieces, a practice which aligns with his creative philosophy: “I believe there is a right way to do things, and short of budget, I don’t think there is any reason to cut corners…I like to put care into things, from the big picture of the piece to the smallest thing you interact with, everything in a piece should work perfectly.”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]He earned his BFA in furniture studies and found himself experimenting in combining functional pieces with artistic sculpture. Merging two worlds that tended to disagree has been a fun challenge, and Generator has offered Alex the tools, storage and access to continue this fusion. “At home it’s a bigger deal if everything is covered in sawdust.” With a new display space at Frog Hollow, Alex has the opportunity to showcase his work, including his most recent project, his refurbished senior thesis work, a mahogany head with moving drawers and a hidden key, evidence of his creative syntheses.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12745″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]David feels lucky to have found Alex: “He is a craftsman par excellence and he was right next door to me.” For David, great assistants are able to understand an artist, yet create independently, all while elevating the art. The balance is not an easy one. David makes a rough form of plaster, and passes it off to Alex, who outlines the piece into a block, bandsaws it roughly and then carves out the details. The process has been educational for the pair. As Alex puts it: “It is not easy to bring someone else’s designs to life. He has a clear idea, and I have material constraints. He is learning what is possible with wood and I am learning what he likes and responds to.”

    The duo just completed their first wooden figure, and plan to continue to collaborate. As David remarks, Generator has allowed for an artistic renaissance and for meaningful collaboration with talented artists: “Most people don’t get a second chance, all of a sudden I am creating a whole new body of work. I’ve got a lot out of this place, it’s been an amazing couple of years”

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Tommy Waters

    Tommy Waters

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    MEMBER SPOTLIGHT – TOMMY WATERS

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    A self-described chronic dabbler, Tommy Waters does it all. Tommy is Generator’s Electronics Lab Lead, a software and electronic engineer, avid woodworker and creative learner.

    Inspired by his brother’s mechanical engineering pursuits and an enthusiastic digital electronics professor, Tommy found electrical engineering. Throughout his high school days in Saratoga Springs and college years at Clarkson University, Tommy honed his craft, and joined GlobalFoundries upon graduation in 2017. As a test engineer, Tommy tested wafers and modules in semiconductors (the circuitry developed on the silicon of semiconductors). Although his work was fulfilling, the monotony of his job and the lack of access to a creative community led Tommy to explore Burlington’s creative landscape. “I was really looking at ways of pushing my personal projects to another level.” After taking some time off from GlobalFoundries, and with life on hold during the pandemic, Tommy joined Generator. His technical skills and creative itch found their home, and his journey towards expert dabbler had begun. [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12709″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Tommy’s introduction to Generator was in large part due to Ezra Ranz-Schleifer, an artist and creator whose mechanical engineering background complemented Tommy’s software and electrical engineering expertise. Their collaboration has led to the creation of “BLOOM” kinesthetic flower sculptures that were designed by Ezra and brought to life by Tommy. Currently, Tommy is designing the circuits and programming the stepper motors which move the flowers’ petals. As Tommy describes it, this project is: “focused on the interaction of people and flowers coming together… The stepper motors are controlling the actuation of flowers to show life and dynamic movement that one can see with blooming, ebbing and flowing of flowers across seasons.” The pair hope to complete the project by February of 2023 in advance of displaying at Burlington City Arts.

    Tommy’s curiosity and desire to grow his skill sets have propelled him to pursue projects across Generator’s shops. He enjoys hopping between hobbies, recently picking up the fiber arts (sewing, crocheting and macrame) to complement his woodworking passion. His studio space is proof of this exploration. “I wanted to bring that to my space here in Generator and create a place where I enjoy working in.” Macrame plant hangers, a floating wooden shelf and a carved monitor stand de-clutter his space and curate a creative yet clean studio. His personal projects are a meditative way to ease his mind while constantly learning: “I’ve been trying to push myself to try to find new ways to learn and make mistakes and bring new perspective to new projects.”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12707″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Beyond just dabbling, Tommy’s time at Generator has been all about curating spaces that enable safe, fun and productive creation for himself and for other members. As the Electronics Shop Lead, Tommy is responsible for the maintenance of the space and the collection and distribution of materials. With donated electronic hardware of all qualities and ages, this is no small task. Tommy’s principle objective is creating an intuitive space where safe, dedicated stations allow for ergonomic and creative workflows to flourish. As Tommy sees it, simple organization will help “spread the creativity.”

    As for what lies ahead, Generator’s upcoming renovations open up the possibility to design a more advanced electronics curriculum. “At the moment we have a base level curriculum intended to get people into the space to use it safely and correctly.” Looking forward, Tommy has plans to design a more project-focused curriculum, where members can be invested in the breadth of learning with real application opportunities[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Greg Kuchyt

    Greg Kuchyt

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    MEMBER SPOTLIGHT – GREG KUCHYT

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Greg Kuchyt is the current Metal Shop & CNC Router shop lead at Generator. Before his time in Vermont, he originally resided in the North Country of New York. He moved to Vermont in 2013, and as an avid climber, he enjoyed climbing a lot of the local cliffs. He noticed the poor condition of some of the anchors used by climbers for fall protection. Greg emphasized that these anchors are “ a life critical piece of equipment” and he got involved with a national movement seeking to effect the replacement of inadequate/improper anchors with standardized and vetted equipment.

    Greg’s volunteer work in the replacement of anchors led him to Generator. He learned that all of the tools required to replace such critical climbing equipment are custom one-off tools that do not exist through any commercial means. With no metal working experience Greg sought out local machine shops to produce the various components needed, but none of the shops he contacted responded to his inquiries. This issue turned into an opportunity as Greg learned about Generator, which had two tools he needed: a lathe and a mill. As Greg puts it “Generator has been a tremendous resource for me but also has been a resource that provides to the local climbing community, and at a national level as well.”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12702″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Since then Greg has poured countless hours into creating these tools and replacing over 600 of these anchors which has contributed tremendously towards improved climbers’ safety. Greg notes that while “it’s unlikely these things (anchors) will fail, when they do the consequences are pretty severe.” Greg noted that failures of climbing anchors have caused serious and even fatal accidents in the past. As a result, climbing organizations around the world are now tackling the issues related to replacing inadequate and aging anchors. Greg fully appreciates the barriers that exist to these organizations’ ability to remove these anchors and he has volunteered his expertise through conferences, presentations/clinics, and as a resource/tool maker for others to ensure appropriate vetted equipment is in place for climbers across the nation.

    Throughout this process, Greg was exposed to the world of machining, material science, and tenets of engineering in general. Greg is excited by material science and the comprehensive nature of designing effective mechanical devices. Originally, Greg studied computer science and worked as a Linux systems engineer at the State University of New York and University of Vermont. In 2020, Greg transitioned into the manufacturing industry to continue his learning of machining and to apply his experience from IT systems and programming. Currently, he works as a product developer at a manufacturing engineering group that specializes in the application of CNC technology, specifically post processor development and the commissioning of digital twins; digital twins are digital replicas of a CNC machine. According to Greg, these digital twins allow users to simulate the condition of materials and catch undesirable events like crashes of a machine. “We want to be able to emulate a lot of the real world in the digital space because it’s easier to fail in the digital space versus failing in the real world.” In turn, these processes are critical in the high-value low volume manufacturing world where scraped parts are costly and waste ultimately gets pushed on the consumer/tax payer.

    Greg continues to use his manufacturing experience to grow and support Generator’s emerging Fabrication Services, where custom solutions are provided to other non-profits of the City of Burlington. Greg believes that workforce development strengthens a community especially during times of need. As he puts it “There is a lot of value in having a community that is more aware of how modern manufacturing processes work because it makes that community more robust and resilient to external influences.” One example is when Generator, Burlington City Arts and the Church Street Marketplace collaborated to create huts for the Winter Artist Market in 2020. Greg lent his experience in concert with the Generator team of staff and volunteers to design and optimize the manufacturing process of the winter sheds. As a result, local artists had an opportunity to sell and promote their art safely during the pandemic.

    Greg continues to support and help at the Generator whenever he can. His current project is to “try to be like a sponge and grow as a human.”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]

    Intro To Digital Manufacturing: Laguna CNC Router Training Course

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12697″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]If you’re interested in learning more about Generator’s CNC and Digital Manufacturing technology, check out the upcoming series of trainings listed below that will provide students with an introduction to digital manufacturing and CNC router operation. Students will cover CAD/CAM software and CNC machine tool operation to produce a custom smartphone docking station. Students will be guided through the processes of creating 3D models in CAD and programming the manufacturing process in CAM followed by step by step instruction for safe operation of the CNC router.

    July 18th, 25th, & August 1st – 7.5 Hours Total 

    August 15th, 22nd, & 29th – 7.5 Hours Total 

    September 7th, 13th, & 21st – 7.5 Hours Total[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Join Generator as Our Communications Coordinator

    Join Generator as Our Communications Coordinator

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]JOB TITLE: Communications Coordinator
    REPORTS TO:  Executive Director
    STATUS:  Full-Time, Benefits
    PAY RANGE: $20/hr+

    GENERATOR’S MISSION

    Generator is a combination of business incubator, artist studio and classroom at the intersection of art, science, and technology. We provide the tools, expertise, education, and opportunity to enable all members of our community to create, collaborate, and bring ideas to fruition.

    POSITION OVERVIEW 

    Generator’s Communications Coordinator connects our external community with Generator’s mission through storytelling and promoting our program offerings and events to a diverse audience. Responsibilities include maintaining monthly communications and outreach; creating digital and printed content; posting to social media channels; and keeping Generator’s website up-to-date.

    DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    • Capture and share the amazing stories that unfold within the walls of Generator. Be our Storyteller!! Build Generator’s audience, and grow support for makers, artists, and entrepreneurs bringing creativity and innovation to our community
    • Create, produce, schedule, and maintain content for a wide variety of Generator audiences, driving traffic to Generator’s website, events, programming, and fundraising campaigns. This will include coordinating:
      • Monthly eNewsletters
      • Paid Advertising & Event Listings
      • Generator’s Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube
      • Fundraising Appeals in collaboration with Development Manager
    • Coordinate production of engagement collateral in collaboration with the Executive Director to increase general marketing, branding, and development initiatives. 
    • Maintain Generator brand standards across all media: website, graphics, printed collateral, and physical space including signage and decor.
    • Maintain Generator’s annual communications and marketing calendar providing consistency in our outreach.
    • Track and share monthly metrics for social channels, website stats, and email marketing efforts. 
    • Deliver on corporate sponsorship commitments, with direction and support from the Development Manager. 
    • Support Generator’s Fundraising activities and events as directed by Development staff. 
    • Maintain Generator’s website content with the support of the staff team. 
    • Support and capture events that engage Generator’s external community to promote the mission and highlight strategic partners and stakeholders.
    • Work to build and engage a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and safe community culture with an awareness for racial and gender equity; physical and socio-emotional safety.
    • File and archive Generator digital assets on a shared digital platform.

    AUXILIARY DUTIES

    • Attend staff team meetings 
    • Support Generator with other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

    QUALIFICATIONS

    • 1-2 yrs+ experience in digital media coordination 
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
    • A passion for storytelling and lifting up a community of makers, entrepreneurs, & artists. 
    • Experience with WordPress or similar website builder 
    • Experience with graphic design, photography and/or videography
    • Proficient in Adobe Suite, Canva, or similar graphic design platforms. 
    • Experience with Email Campaigns & Management of Email Lists/Segments 
    • A knack for applying consistent brand voice to all written communications
    • Experience managing a large library of digital assets
    • Experience in G-suite (Google Workspace) is a plus
    • Interest in being part of a makerspace community (shared collaborative workspace) grounded in interdisciplinary collaboration in the arts, entrepreneurism, and emerging technology.

    Generator is committed to building a work community that is inclusive and represents a vibrant diversity of background, experience, perspective and thought. Candidates across all markers of identity (age, race, gender, ability, communication styles, etc.) are highly encouraged to apply.

    APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

    Interested applicants should submit the following as PDF files using the following format: LastName.Resume.pdf to [email protected]:

    • Resume
    • Cover Letter
    • Three Professional References

    Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled – the first round of applicants will be reviewed starting July 25th, 2022.

    Generator is committed to building a work community that is inclusive and represents a vibrant diversity of background, experience, perspective and thought. Candidates across all markers of identity (age, race, gender, ability, communication styles, etc.) are highly encouraged to apply.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Luna Shen

    Luna Shen

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    LUNA SHEN, ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Luna Shen is Generator’s Current Artist-in-Residence. From drippy, flowery sculptures to detailed geometric prints, Luna’s work encompasses many materials, styles and forms. As her artist-in-residency program draws to a close, Luna reflects on her experience, her artwork and lessons learned.

    Luna Shen comes from an artistic household. Her mother attended a highly selective art school, and creativity was all around her growing up: “I wasn’t afraid of creating things.” As a teen, art school felt like an exciting possibility, but Luna decided to pursue a Sociology degree at Middlebury College instead. Despite her mother’s experience in a cutthroat art institution, her mother emphasized to Luna that she could be an artist without a formal education, and art could fit as part of a balanced existence. “I wanted to have a container for my creative processes.” In 2019, artist and educator Estefania Puerta took her students on a trip visiting Burlington artists and their studios. This introduced Luna into the Burlington art scene, and later connected her to the artist-in-residency opportunity at Generator.

    Prior to her residency, the idea of working on her art for 20 hours each week was daunting, especially given Luna’s familiarity with a lifestyle of working full-time as a case manager at a homeless shelter. When she applied and accepted Generator’s residency, she shifted to working part-time as a case manager so that she could dedicate more time and energy into creating. Art had always been a hobby, the opportunity at Generator would allow her to test out just how she would find balance as she made art a bigger part of her life.

    Until her residency, much of her work was guided by what was financially feasible and practical, her art dictated by her access to material and space. Before her residency, Luna largely focused on making prints at BCA; sculptures had yet to be a part of her portfolio, as space was limited. The potential to explore new mediums, learn new tools and connect with other artists at Generator opened up Luna’s art world: “The support of knowledgeable people, the space, and the material stipend have allowed me to be playful and experimental.” Luna’s experimentation has led her to combine her experience in the metal shop and in printmaking with new mediums, including incorporating materials like expansion foam, spray paint and braided hair into some of her latest sculptures. As Luna puts it: “An emphasis for me has been trying to transcend materiality. I want people to look at my work and not necessarily be able to read what it is.” Part of her creative process has been learning the “personalities” of different materials–how they drip, stick, and solidify. Observing the preferences of different materials played a large role in directing the evolution of each project. “My sculptures, or creatures, have a life of their own. Often they are informed by how they want to exist in space, what they might want and what they don’t want.”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”12682″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”12683″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Luna has also used her time as an artist-in-residence to connect with the Burlington art community, even hosting an open-mic, pop-up gallery for her friends and fellow artists in May. The event was a huge success: a chance to display completed pieces and works in progress and a time to celebrate. As Luna puts it: “I’m always curious about what people are thinking about and making. Final pieces are interesting but I’m also just as interested in pieces that are in evolution, so it felt really fun.”[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12684″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Luna has valued the relationships built with fellow Generator members during her time in the space. The logistical, technical and artistic guidance she has received from fellow members has allowed her to navigate challenges within her artwork. Asking for help isn’t just OK, it’s the norm. Luna recalls one example of this, on a rainy day at Generator, when Eric Roy helped her gather materials and pitch a make-shift, garbage-bag tent so Luna could continue to work on one of her sculptures outside, sheltered from the down-pour. As she puts it: “It’s great to ask for help here because a lot of people like problem-solving, and a lot of people like helping others in problem-solving, like making literal tools or brainstorming creative workflows.”

    Luna’s residency has made it clear that art can and will fit into her life moving forward. As she continues her work as a case manager, she is excited about the possibility of what her next creative pursuit might hold. Although she will be phasing out of the residency program at the end of the month, she will continue to work and create in Generator. We can’t wait to see what she creates next.

    Connect with Luna at linktr.ee/lunashen.

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Black Freedom, Black Madonna, & The Black Child of Hope

    Black Freedom, Black Madonna, & The Black Child of Hope

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE UNITE

    Raphaella Brice and Josie Bunnell Join Forces to Create Mural Celebrating Juneteenth

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”12670″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Raphaella Brice and Josie Bunnell, Generator Artists-in-Residence alumni, have teamed up to create a public mural for the BCA’s 2022 Juneteenth celebration. Combining Raphaella’s digital artistry and Josie’s vinyl printing expertise, the mural represents a month of labor, collaboration and design. Selected in May and installed on June 15th, their bright holographic mural depicts Black Mother Mary and Christ, a reflection of Raphaella’s Haitian and Catholic roots, and a celebration of Black reclamation of traditional Catholic imagery. The mural takes up the South-facing exterior of the Fletcher Free Library in downtown Burlington and is a testament to Generator’s project potential: collaborative across discipline, rooted in community, and celebratory of underrepresented voices.

    Read on to learn more about their process, their inspiration for the piece, and to see how this project came to life.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12672″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Raphaella Brice is a self-described cultural and digital psychedelic artist, with vibrant digital drawings and trippy pieces characterizing her work. The daughter of an artist, she grew up around the creative process and has enjoyed a fierce rekindling of artistry over the last few years. After studying dance and creative writing at Manhattanville College, she pursued travel writing before Covid interrupted those opportunities. With life on pause, Raphaella found purpose once again through her art. A crash course in Adobe Illustrator during a computer graphics course at Manhattanville had sparked her love for digital design. The accessibility and creative potential of the medium allowed Raphaella to create a piece or more each day, beginning with recreations of her friends, but soon graduating into original pieces and psychedelic reconstructions of traditional imagery. Raphaella joined Generator as a volunteer in 2021 and recalls Jim Shield’s transformative laser cutting training as a critical moment of realization that her digital pieces could be vibrantly translated from the screen into the tactile world. As she saw it: “I didn’t think it was possible for my digital pieces to come to life as they did.” This revelation unlocked a world of possibility, and Raphaella chased down all opportunities to bring her digital work to life. With support from Rebecca Schwarz and Meg Hammond, she pursued the artist-in-residence program and was accepted in December of 2021. With the dedicated space and materials, her digital work reached new levels. The chance to apply for BCA’s Juneteenth mural was the next step in her creative journey, and her application was accepted on May 15th. The mural’s image was designed by Raphaella.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12673″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Josie Bunnell began her artistry at home in small-town New Jersey, re-drawing photographs and diddling in design. Small town meant an even smaller art community, so it wasn’t until her time at Bennington College that she discovered the breadth of artistic community and creative opportunities available to her. Josie quickly found and fell in love with printmaking and began working in press shops, designing her own prints and honing her craft. When she moved to Burlington in 2020, Covid had rendered in-person printing virtually impossible, so Generator’s laser cutter provided one of the only chances for her to continue creating. With support and expertise from Generator members she had just met, Josie designed and built a printing press, and began laser-cutting wood block presses to print. Since then, Josie has thrown herself into the Generator community, acting as a liaison between Champlain College and Generator, becoming an artist-in-residence and leading Generator’s laser cutter shop. Her most recent creative focus is on capturing the power of light. As an avid astronomer, Josie’s art and designs seek to reflect light’s power, and her colorways and materials look to collect and reproduce its vibrance. Josie led the vinyl printing portion of the mural construction.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][vc_column_text]Although divergent in the mediums, Raphaella and Josie connected immediately. Their complementary skill sets and artistic trajectories made a partnership and friendship inevitable. A conversation in early January of 2022 about the course of their respective artistic careers revealed that they both saw an opportunity to bring light and color into the Generator space and in the last five weeks they have done just that. The pair have filled Generator with their vibrant colors and bubbly laughter, and have welcomed members, friends and staff into their creative process. As Raphaella puts it, and the Generator staff concur: “It has been magical.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12674″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]The image depicted in the mural is a fusion of Raphaella’s lived experiences as a Catholic Haitian, and a celebration of Black liberation and reclamation. Working with the BCA’s theme of a love story, Raphaella chose to portray the story of universal love between Mother Mary and Jesus. She sees herself in both figures, as “an old soul with the energy of a kid,” but also seeks to represent the power yet undeniable self-sacrifice involved with bringing another being into the world. Given the pervasiveness of these figures and their deep connection to colonial legacies, the mural represents a reclamation for Black Haitians of these symbols, and the confluence of pain, religion and liberation which they often represent. Raphaella’s colorful and psychedelic flair also adds color and movement to this traditional image, bringing it to life and celebrating the liberation of Haitians and Black Americans.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”12675″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Timeline, Process, & Collaboration

    The first week of the mural process was spent breaking the digital design into various pieces, so the vinyl cutter could print and cut out the shapes which formed the image. These shapes were then layered onto one of six massive aluminum panels, the base of the 16ft by 12ft mural. Raphaella and Josie spent the last weeks refining the image, adding layers and accenting the design.

    Given Raphaella’s limited experience working with vinyl, it was Josie who spearheaded the vinyl process. When asked about what it was like to hand over her design, Raphaella said: “Honestly, I just trusted her. As artists it is so easy to get stuck in your individual niche or style, but collaborating with Josie helped me realize that my vision could be brought to life in a style that was not mine.”

    Their process was full of discovery, including the addition of a holographic layer of vinyl to the background, which has become one of its defining characteristics. With no rigid format, Raphaella and Josie found space to innovate. As Raphaella put it: “We were constantly discovering new things as we worked on the mural.” For Josie, this collaboration allowed her to avoid the self-doubt that she often feels creeps into longer-term projects: “I didn’t have the same attachment or self-doubt that comes with making my own art. My main thought was ‘how are we going to execute this properly.” And execute they did.

    Generator’s Impact

    Although Raphaella and Josie were responsible for the design and execution of the mural, they were supported by the community, tools and space at Generator. They both recognized Elliott Katz, Operations & Facilities Director, as critical in helping them navigate the application and proposal process, as well as helping them strike a balance between their art and the parameters designated by BCA. Generator’s vinyl cutter, Adobe software and Flexspace, allowed for a creative space complete with the tools necessary to bring the mural to life. As Raphaella noted: “To have a space which honors the creative process has been amazing.” The energy and scale of the project also attracted the attention of Generator members involved in their own projects, whose curiosity and excitement was always welcomed by the pair.

    What’s Next?

    As for what comes next, art and creation will remain central for Raphaella and Josie. For Josie, making will be a priority: “My goals are to make sure I fit time into every day, or even every week, to being creative and making art so I can continue to grow as an artist.” And as for the duo, Raphaella and Josie are clear that this is only the beginning. As Raphaella sees it: “Now that we know we can do this, we are definitely gonna go do it again!”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Meet Khadija, Johana, and Kenan!

    Meet Khadija, Johana, and Kenan!

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12662″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]We’re really excited to welcome three new faces to the Generator community. Read on to learn more about Khadija, Johana, and Kenan and please welcome them to the community![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12667″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Khadija Karima Assales, of Belize, is working with Generator as part of her participation in the US Department of State’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI). Khadija is the Owner/Manager of a company called Kaj Expressions, a micro woman-owned and run business dedicated to creating handmade precious metal jewelry, custom name plates, and lionfish jewelry in Belize. Khadija’s goal is to create an environmental and cultural impact and awareness through art and she’ll be working on development of this mission while she’s at Generator from June 13 – July 7, 2022. You can click here to view Khadija’s YLAI fellow introduction and to learn more about her work in Belize. While she’s here, Khadija will also be offering two unique jewelry making workshops – check them out:

    • Lionfish Jewelry – Tues, June 28th – 6-7PM (LINK)
    • Jippi Jappa Jewelry – Thurs, June 30th – 6-7PM (LINK)

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][vc_column_text]Johana Ramirez and Kenan Ulku-Steiner are both students at Middlebury College and are participating in Middlebury’s “Vermont Innovation Summer” (more info here!) along with a number of other students interning at other Burlington area organizations and businesses. Johana and Kenan are going to be working on a number of different projects at Generator including interviewing members, fabrication services projects, assisting with summer camps, social media, and more![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12663″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Johana grew up in Yonkers, New York and attends Middlebury College. She studies Computer Science, Studio Art and Geography. At Middlebury, Johana is the co-president of Creating Art Together club and a computer science teaching assistant. Johana completed a programming fellowship at ColorStack and volunteered at the NYC Department of Records & Information Services where she interviewed NYC residents about their neighborhoods. Johana is passionate about the intersection of art and technology. She enjoys creating artwork using acrylic paints and markers. She is excited to explore new mediums and tools at the Generator including laser cutting. As an intern, Johana is excited about the opportunity to become involved in a collaborative environment where creativity is encouraged. She looks forward to learning about the diverse set of projects at the Generator and supporting members. During her free time, she enjoys baking and going on road bike trips. Johana also loves to spend time with her cat and turtle in New York.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12664″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Kenan grew up in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and Lugano, Switzerland before moving to Middlebury in 2018. He is a rising senior at Middlebury, where he studies international politics, economics and Spanish, and is excited to fill in his extensive classroom experience with hands-on learning at Generator. At Middlebury Kenan is a Spanish tutor, president of the student-athlete advisory committee and a member of the soccer team. Kenan has worked for a strategic advisory startup in San Francisco, a Community Credit Union in Durham, North Carolina and a land conservancy in Monterey, California, before joining Generator for the summer of 2022. He is energized by the creative, passionate and driven community at Generator, and looking to soak in the expertise and knowledge of its members and staff. His experiences have made him appreciate the value of great storytelling as both a driver of revenue and a critical community builder, and looks forward to sharing Generator’s compelling story with the world. He loves soccer, tennis, pickleball (and most other sports), and will hike/bike just about anywhere to find a new swimming hole to splash around in.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    Please be sure to welcome Khadija, Johana, and Kenan when you see them around!

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Meet Josie Bunnell, Artist in Residence

    Meet Josie Bunnell, Artist in Residence

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Josie Bunnell is an artist and maker based in Burlington, Vermont. She’s also the Champlain College’s Emergent Media Center Technical Operations Coordinator, Coordinator of the Champlain Maker Program at Generator, and Generator’s Laser Cutter and Vinyl Cutter Shop Lead.

    Check out our conversation with Josie, see some of her beautiful work, and learn more about why Generator’s Artist in Residence program should be on your radar![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaWqiZm4zMc” el_width=”80″ align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Meet the 2022 JumpStart Cohort

    Meet the 2022 JumpStart Cohort

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” bottom_padding=”100″ overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]It’s 2022 and that means Generator is hosting the next cohort of makers and entrepreneurs as part of JumpStart 2022!

    These eight talented makers were selected to participate in JumpStart 2022, our business development program, organized in partnership with the Center for Women and Enterprise and facilitated by Business Coach, Emily Eley. 

    This amazing crew has been meeting weekly since early March, setting goals, crafting prototypes, and fine tuning the steps they’ll need to take to go from concept to reality. 

    Meet the entrepreneurs below![/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12579″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12578″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Alyssa Neville, Wonder + Wander

    Wonder + Wander gives kids the tools to explore creativity sustainably. We’re starting with a self-guided kit focused on DIY plant and food based paints![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12583″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text] Jennifer Green, Jen Green Designs

    Jen Green Designs empowers women to commute by bike with stylish clothes that move from the bike to the office.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”12588″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://www.jengreendesigns.com/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12585″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Miki Sakaguchi, Studio Soba

    Studio Soba shares our jewelry metalsmithing process and products to inspire you to live creatively too![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12580″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Mischa Tourin, MyTree Puzzles

    MyTree Puzzles helps the toddler in your life build connections with their loved ones with a personalized, high quality, wooden family tree puzzle.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12582″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Nate Walpole, Walrus Steel

    Walrus Steel handcrafts heirloom knives and tools for the kitchen and wilderness, with a nod to social and environmental responsibility. www.walrussteel.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12586″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Nick Rosato, Rosato Wallscapes

    Rosato Wallscapes builds modular, hardwood, wall-mounted shelving that provides users beauty and flexibility to display photos, plants, memories, books, and more.   [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12581″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Peter Grunwald, Trash Plastics

    Trash Plastics protects the outdoor athlete, and the environment, with gear made from your garbage.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”12584″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”small_depth” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”3/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Richard Gliech, WoodFyred

    WoodFyred brings friends and family together for delicious, memorable outdoor gatherings around an easy-to-use, portable and very affordable wood-burning pizza oven. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”padding-10-percent” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1612205080664{padding-top: 30px !important;padding-bottom: 30px !important;}”]

    Jump/Start is made possible with support from

    [/vc_column_text][image_with_animation image_url=”12520″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://www.cweonline.org/About-CWE/CWE-Vermont”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” text=”LEARN MORE ABOUT JUMPSTART” url=”https://generatorvt.com/jumpstart-overview/”][/vc_column][/vc_row]