LOVELAND, OHIO - Chandra and Shawn Custis are renovating the old Clifton Shirt Factory into artist's studios. The Loveland Art Studio on Main will be "Pendleton" like, said Chandra Custis. The Pendletown Art Center is in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine where studios are open to the public, giving guests the opportunity to view creative art space, as well as purchase one-of-a-kind artwork directly from artists. The Custis' both grew up in the Cincinnati area and moved to Loveland two years ago.
The 108 year old, 30,000 square foot brick building was originally the West Loveland Elementary School erected in 1888 and many features of the school remain such as the seven foot wide staircase to the second floor, original bathrooms, and school desks were found in the basement. Shawn Custis said, "The building at the moment is a work in progress, slowly having artists choose how they would like their space, and building it as they go."
The school building was transformed into the Clifton Shirt Factory around 1948. Some of its original items still remain such as old sewing tables, shirt designs, and a mannequin in full police uniform. The 
company made police, security guard, and military uniforms. "From what we have been told by the neighbors, many neighborhood people were employed here as well as going to school here," said Shawn Custis.
The Custis' have spent the last five months, painting, repairing the roofing, and removing some of the plaster to expose original brick walls. They have fixed the unit heaters, furnaces, some central air, and activated the security and fire alarms.
Shawn Custis said they originally bought the building with hopes of turning it into an antique mall but were approached by local artist Mary Karg with an idea to turn the building into artist studios. "After hearing what she had to say, we became passionate and committed to the idea," said Custis.
Mary Karg lives in Miami Township and creates hand made art glass beads and designs jewelry. Her work has been recognized and published in national and international publications. Karg says she makes, "Art to wear."
Karg has been recognized by The International Society of Glass Bead Makers, and for three straight years was recognized by Bead and Button Magazine as one of the "Top Five" designers from around the world. Karg will be creating and selling her art at the center as well as giving instructions. She will rent "torch time" and has the raw materials such as gloss rods and enamels. Karg said, "I needed a space and a place where my customers can find me."
"Chandra and Shawn have been great to work with and have done anything I've asked of them. They have been enthusiastic and supportive about having this place in Loveland," said Karg.
The Loveland Art Studio on Main is at 529 Main Street just off of Loveland Madeira Road. It is very near the Loveland Post Office as Main Street is at the traffic light at the entrance to the Post Office.
To inquirer about renting or leasing space in the Loveland Art Studio on Main, contact:
Shawn Custis 513-235-6700 or [email protected]
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