Maker : Macy Chadwick of In Cahoots Press
You’re forewarned, this post is marvelously heavy on beautiful studio imagery. We’re going to break the ‘Substack for writers’ model here. Today is a tour of Macy Chadwick’s cozy studio in Petaluma, California.
You may already know Macy through In Cahoots Residency, her artist residency in Petaluma that she built with determination and sheer grit in 2018. I met Macy through our mutual friend, Lucy Childs. I was living in Sonoma County and she knew Macy hoped to buy property there and wanted us to connect. After teaching full time for fifteen years, Macy dreamed of establishing a residency program with an emphasis on artists books, letterpress, printmaking, writing and collaboration. She succeeded! It has quickly developed a global reputation with artists. You can see photos of In Cahoots Residency here. But Macy also has her private studio on site, which I was excited to photograph before I moved.
In this multi-functional space, Macy creates artists' books and limited edition prints under the name In Cahoots Press. Her work can be found at the Victoria and Albert Museum and Yale University Special Collections among other collecting museums.
These images show current work in progress, her book ‘Waiting for Rain’. It captures how Macy experiences climate change living in Northern California. Between the mounting stress of living amongst a parched landscape to welcoming the first drops of rain that end fire season, each page captures the emotions all of us feel who have experienced wildfires firsthand.
I love seeing the tools used by each maker, their essentials that sit at the ready. But I also admire where those tools are placed and how they’re organized. This is something I want to tap into with my new, more functional textile business.
I’ve never seen so many metal rulers in use at once (how, what, why?!) but I can relate to the little box of tools just off to the right: tape, multiple scissors, glue, pencil, awl.
Throughout the space, one happens upon trays of goodies. Often the tools are beautifully laid out and yet clearly functional. It just adds to the charm of Macy’s studio.
Presses abound throughout the property but Macy cherishes her Vandercook press in her studio which I captured in silhouette from the morning light.
There are so many lovely vignettes utilizing found and gifted pieces of furniture and tools that she has collected through the years.
I’m always curious what makers keep on their shelves. Her shelves don’t disappoint! I agree, Macy. One can never have enough Micron pens! You will soon see my embarrassingly huge collection of Microns …
Macy’s studio was the last room on her property to be renovated. I remember seeing it in its’ before state, very dark and absolutely packed with antique doors and windows left behind by the previous owner. They now live a renewed life throughout the property and add to the charm and character of the residency.
Through one of those windows is a little glimpse of one of the communal gathering spots. Part of what is so special about the residency is the thoughtful spaces that offer both quiet contemplation and foster community building.
See more of Macy’s work on her website. If you’re interested in visiting In Cahoots Residency, you can learn more here or buy some merch, including this apron below. There is an annual spring auction to provide grants for artists to attend the residency. Macy’s ‘studio’ really should include the entire property as she really did create a work of art building the residency from scratch. I feel lucky to have witnessed it grow.
Thanks so much, Macy, for letting me photograph you and your studio while you worked. California now feels far away so it’s been nice to revisit those lovely warm and dry summer days.
Loved reading this - you captured some of the magic of Macy and In Cahoots!
Such a thoughtful reflection on Macy’s practice and space! I like the focus on tools as well. Always interesting to see people’s studio organization!