I first stepped onto the campus of what was then Bay Crafters twenty-six years ago. Newly married and looking forward to decorating our first Christmas tree, I discovered a delicate hand-crafted glass snowflake. The ornament was as magical as the shop. One part grandmother’s attic and one part work space for creative visionaries, BAYarts has been an important part of my life. My children, now grown, have wonderful memories of painting and crafting classes. When they reached high school age, I became involved as a volunteer. I spent days at the Fuller House greeting guests to our gallery and spending wonderful hours helping in the holiday shop.
I knew I wanted to become even more involved, this time as an instructor. Nancy Heaton kindly listened to my notion for creating an adult Writer’s Salon, and I have been privileged to work with so many wonderful writers who also took a chance. We share stories, ideas, and our love for words. BAYarts has provided a safe space for people to find their voices and meet new friends. I am so very honored to be part of a community that values the slow simmering alchemy of the creative process. Cheers to the past, present, and magical future of BAYarts!
Susan Mangan has served BAYarts for many years as a volunteer, and also teaches the popular Writer’s Salon course. The portrait of Susan pictured here was painted by another BAYarts community member, Chris Benavides.
