Ellen Flynn - The Art Establishment

Ellen Flynn and her husband co-own The Art Establishment in Bethlehem, PA. The establishment was originally built as a personal art studio for Mr.Flynn, who dabbled in art but never took it up as a career. Not an artist herself, Ellen graduated from Moravian College with a degree in English Literature, and was a writer and editor for a few years before becoming a business owner alongside her husband. As a small business, the Flynn’s can run the

establishment as they see fit; they did not want to be a non-profit organization because that would entail excessive paperwork and answering to a board of directors. This means that the Flynn’s used their own money to fix up an old printing factory (which was also a former textile mill) to create an art studio with spaces for art lessons, socializing, and a gallery (every room in the building is even handicap accessible). However, the Flynn’s experienced some difficulty with running the studio since they do not have a model to use as a reference; this means that they have to be open to new ideas, which includes customer’s suggestions.

By listening to their customers, the Flynns have integrated all kinds of art classes (ceramics, printmaking, book arts, drawing, painting, special education classes, etc.) into their studio. Also, the majority of the artists who teach these classes are professionals, some of whom had never taught before. Since the Flynn’s are the only staff members, and the teachers are all independent contractors, The Art Establishment takes several volunteers, and also offers internships. Although The Art Establishment offers memberships, most people take drop-in hours or rent out space whenever they like.

As for technology, The Art Establishment takes pride in being ‘old school’, meaning that there is little to know technology involved in the classes or work areas. Although they do use technology to market their business, which is currently one of their primary focuses with the studio, there is little technology aside from basic electrical needs. While adding technology to the studio would be pricey, the Flynn’s are considering adding a few technological advancements due to customer inquiries.

The Art Establishment is a lovely studio; the whole interior screams simple aesthetics and old school charm. Also, I was very impressed with the dedication Ellen and her husband put into their business, and that they made it a business instead of a non-profit. Although hearing Ellen talk about the business openly and honestly gave insight into the struggles of owning your own business, she seemed very satisfied with owning and running her own business.

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