From Shadows to Light: Leaving Mayfair Lofts Art Studio for a Bright Future

Ralph walking out of the dark, abandoned Mayfair Lofts studio to a bright future in his newly acquired art studio in Woodruff, SC.

Ten years ago, I stood inside a 10,000 sq ft dilapidated building that would soon become my art studio at Mayfair Lofts. At the time, it was more akin to a scrapyard than a creative space—a layer of filth an inch thick, discarded trash, and even old cars cluttered the area. The idea of transforming it into a functioning studio was daunting, but Cat and I were committed. We rebuilt the inside from the ground up and created a home for my art, a place where creativity flowed freely. For nearly a decade, it was our sanctuary and allowed my artwork to natural evolve into... something bigger. No surprise there.

Fast forward to 2024, and everything changed. The new management decided to close down the building, asking us to leave. While it was devastating, it wasn’t entirely unexpected. In a world where corporate greed often outweighs human kindness, we knew this day would come. What they didn’t know is that you can’t stifle creativity or break an artist’s spirit with paperwork and power plays.

So we took this as an opportunity. After searching, we found a gem in the heart of Woodruff, South Carolina—a charming little town that offered us a new home for our art. The new studio is smaller in size at just over 4,000 sq ft, but it’s in much better condition and with the help of studio assistants Leroy and Duncan, we built a loft space. Most importantly, we own it. No one can suddenly pull the rug out from under us anymore or challenge us for $7k a month in rent.

This summer has been all about the move. We’ve been busy getting everything set up—installing plumbing and water, organizing the space, and preparing for a fresh start. The studio isn’t quite operational yet; there’s still so much to build and organize, but we’re well on our way. With each passing day, we’re getting closer to that moment when we can fully open the doors and let the creativity flow once again.

Beyond just a working studio, I want this new space to be something more—a safe and welcoming place for others to gather, collaborate, and find inspiration. It’s a long process, and it will take time, but we’re ready for this new chapter. And the best part? No more worrying about what corporate big heads might try to do to us next.

Here’s to new beginnings, greater creative freedom, and a future where we hold the keys to our own space, our own destiny.

Follow me on IG: @rpaquinart