Over the years, American Steel Studios has been lucky enough to work with numerous programs that engage our neighbors, young and old, in our building and our community. From welding lessons to planting gardens, summer camps to internships, the flow of people into AmSteel has inspired visitors and community members alike. We wanted to take a moment and say Thank You to the huge number of community groups, organizations, businesses, schools, and the City of Oakland itself for making this all possible. The best way to do this is to share the words of a young woman who is an intern here. She had her own remarkable journey in this vast space dedicated to creativity, innovation, collaboration, and exploration.
Bella first participated in our Summer Camp this past June, then requested to come back to work with the Rose Foundation’s interns on an environmental education and gardening project. When it was completed, she approached again and has started interning with us in a more formal capacity. At just 16 years old, Bella says it better than we ever could…
“I first found American Steel Studios through my friend Tayah. She was trying to get me to participate in a circus camp with her called Big Top Steel. I hadn’t had much experience in circus arts prior to the camp so I didn’t really know what to expect. However when I got there, I instantly fell in love with the people. The teachers were incredible. Everyone seemed eager to learn and teach one another. I loved the energy. Not only were the teacher and students amazing, but the place itself is too. As I arrived in the parking lot, American Steel Studios seems to appear out of nowhere. Arms raised towards the sky, feet planted firmly on the ground, chanting, praying, smiling; there stand the metal giants. Once I’d had a second to look in amazement at them, I turned my head to see the entrance of the studio. Walking in I saw more metal sculptures, a fat bug/human sitting on a chair, a giant metal flower, along with other odd creations. To my left stands the room that held “Big Top Steel,” and to the right stands Bay 2.
While attending “Big Top Steel,” Bay 2 was simply our meetup spot. However, now that I am an intern, Bay 2 has become something like a second home. One thing that I love about working at American Steel Studios is the homey feel it has. Everyone is kind to each other and it’s inspiring to see what these people are capable of producing. There is a kitchen in Bay 2 that people go in and out of. Everyone helps keep the kitchen clean, and sometimes people will make food to share with one another. The people here work hard to keep this place running smoothly, and it shows.
Right now, we – the interns – along with staff and volunteers, are working together build a drought resistant garden. The work has been very intense but productive. This is my first time ever building anything like this from the ground up. It is hard work. Very, very hard work. With that said, I cannot be luckier to be able to participate in this project. I love every second I am out there. I am getting to get up and move and make something beautiful. I feel proud knowing at the end of the day that I get to go home and post pictures on facebook and say “Yeah, I made that.” I am working with some of the nicest, most hard working people I know. We get tired and grumpy, but we all work to keep one another motivated. There is never a dull moment when I am working here. I feel really blessed to have stumbled upon this group, and I hope I can continue to work with them in the future.”
Bella is but one of the many youth we get to work with. It is an honor that so many of them choose to stay. Some start working here, some stay and volunteer with existing projects, some end up creating their own projects, and others find jobs! We love being part of this community, and are always happy to welcome others into this unique space. We want to encourage you to join us as well.
– Sign up for our newsletter,
– Contact us to schedule classes for your (or your child’s) school,
– Host an art opening for your students here,
– Inquire about intern and apprentice opportunities and classes.
American Steel Studios is building on the long history of art, industry, and innovation that was born right here in Oakland. We are proud to house 170 of Oakland’s artists and small businesses, and we encourage you to contact us to find ways to bring this community together with yours.