Excited by the crowds, worried about the rent: Conversations with artists in Bushwick
“It’s amazing,” said Colm Henry, leaning forward in his chair. A painter in Bushwick for eight years, he’s participated in the annual “Open Studios” events since their inception, but he said he still couldn’t believe the crowds. “It’s getting bigger and more popular every time.”
Mr. Henry had positioned himself in the corner of a live-work studio space at 449 Troutman St. that he shares with two others.
It was an optimal spot to survey the overflow audience, answer questions and suggest visitors sign on to his email list. His studio-mates, Aidan Grant and Scot Weiss, occasionally peered out from behind the viewing walls, beyond which were a kitchen, living room and beds. Despite their collective excitement, there was also a growing sense of concern.
“Bushwick is catching on,” Henry said. “Honestly, I’m hostage to whatever my landlord wants to do. We’re hostage to any landlord, really.”