Why 3?
why ?
3
We chose the name Studio 3 for our community arts space as an expression of our belief in the power of 'third spaces' in our community. Third spaces are described by cultural and post-colonial theorist Homi K. Bhabha and sociologist Ray Oldenburg as communal spaces that are established outside of home, work, and school, and serve as anchors of community life that facilitate and foster creative interaction.
Third spaces are not governed by any one political, religious, cultural, or social agenda rather they foster the sharing and co-creation of new knowledge that is inclusive of the histories and experiences of all members of the community. These spaces are vital to democracy and civic engagement, and allow for opportunities that amplify voices of people who lack social privilege and provide communities that are typically marginalized a sense of place.
“We are an open mixing place for the general public, but we are strongly committed to bringing together people who may not normally spend time together in the hope that they will become friends, seeking deeper relationships with each other and with the community. A sign I once saw in an old café window proclaimed, "There are no strangers here, just friends who haven't met," and that pretty much captures what we're about.”
Ray Oldenburg, Celebrating the Third Place: Inspiring Stories About the Great Good Places at the Heart of Our Communities