Fall 2025

Denese Sanders founded Open Ground Studios 12 years ago to create a nurturing community environment where artists share studio space. A s do writers, artists most often work alone. Denese Sanders founded Open Ground Studios (OGS) to bring artists of all genres togeth- er in a nurturing community environment. Sanders is a lifelong professional artist and arts educator. While teaching some years ago, her students expressed a desire to have a space to continue their work. “They wanted a shared, non-academic studio to work as a community,” Sanders said. So, she raised $8,000 and opened OGS at 1230 Fremont Boulevard in Seaside. Currently, 18 member artists pay a monthly fee for studio space. But perhaps more import- ant than the real estate is the camaraderie and inspiration gained by interacting with other artists—artists who invariably become friends. Member Dora Lisa Rosenbaum says, “People wonder where you are when you’re not there.” Sanders likens the way OGS members col- laborate to tuning forks. “When two are both struck simultaneously, they vibrate together in harmony. That’s what happens here.” A recent visit con½rmed that 7everal artists worOed in a friendly and convivial manner. OGS celebrated its 12th anniversary in June with an open house and art sale. Upcoming events include the Artist Open Studios Art Tour on October 11 and 12. For more information, call 831/204-8578 or visit www.opengroundstudios.com . Open Ground Studios Provides a Nur tur ing Environment for Ar tists B Y M I CHA E L CHAT F I E LD SHORT CUTS ART 72 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 5 Photo: Kelli Uldall