In this series we engage Makers from all areas of the maker movement to share how successful makerspaces' have forged their story. Makerspaces are unique to their community, and grow based on those who use them.

The Workbench is a community space in Denton, Texas. At Workbench, you will find a friendly, approachable, community-based, and socially conscious space. They teach traditional workshops as well as provide one-on-one sessions. They offer gallery and retail space by invite and application. They are members of the Denton Chamber of Commerce, local art collectives, UNT faculty and staff, and Denton Main Street Association.

Guest: Caron Dessoye is currently a Denton-based artist. In 2017, Caron moved here from the Philadelphia suburbs to achieve her dream of an MFA in Metalsmithing and Jewelry from the University of North Texas. After completing her MFA in 2020, Caron was an adjunct professor in UNT's Metalsmithing and Jewelry Program in addition to continuing her own art practice. In July 2021, she rented an unassuming space at 813 North Locust Street in Denton. One of the first tasks was to hire a mural artist to take her space from unassuming to incredible! And that is just the outside. Currently, the community can take courses, rent studio time, and sell their work in their quirky retail area. Workbench continues to evolve as it works to meet the community's needs. The goal is always to make art accessible and welcoming. It is an incubator for ideas, people, and community development. In a city where art has a strong representation, especially being the home to two Universities with strong art programs, Workbench compliments and engages people in an approachable and friendly way.

Host: Jerry Johnson, Liberty Walker

Sound Production: Jerry Johnson

Producer: Judy Hunter, Jake Jacobson, Alondra Lopez

Music: A jazz piano by Music for Videos on PixaBay

Pixabay - A Jazz Piano | Royalty Free Music