JUDE KUSNIERZ of THE BEAUMONT STUDIOS –

A VISION OF INTEGRATED ART AND COLLABORATIVE ARTISTS

Jude Kusnierz is the driving force behind The Beaumont Studios, the product of her vision to establish a multi-dimensional art studio, gallery and theatre in Vancouver’s emerging “creative district” east of Cambie Street.

In addition to being the Founder & Operator of The Beaumont Studios, Kusnierz is also the Founder & Owner of With A Twist Designs and Co-founder and principal of Crimson, Inc., the presenters of art show events such as “White Blossom, Red Dragon” and this year’s “Carnivale”.

Kusnierz is a self-proclaimed lover of “art in business” and has dedicated her career not only to her own artistic creations, but to creating inspiring environments and support systems for other artisans.  Her own paintings and pieces from With A Twist Designs, one of the leading specialty glass painting operations in British Columbia, are interspersed with creations by the various other artists and graphic, photographic, jewelry and painting studios that call Beaumont home.

The dynamic art entrepreneur is known for her commitment to the arts community in Vancouver and, above all, for her work ethic and persistence.  She developed the vision for Beaumont as she bounced back from an electrical fire which shut down her old studio in the spring of 2004.

“In searching for a new location for my business, it became clear to me I wasn’t the only one looking for comfortable, reasonably-priced, safe work environments and that there was a real shortage of space in the marketplace,” explains Kusnierz.  “It occurred to me that if we joined forces with like-minded individuals and created a collective space wherein we could cross-promote our art and cross-pollinate our clients, it would be good for the business and for the community.”

The name “Beaumont” was derived from “Beautiful Mountains”, inspired by the signature view of the North Shore mountains which blesses the studios at West 5^th and Alberta Streets, just east of Cambie.  The studio is dedicated to the loving memory of Jude’s brother Paul Kusnierz, who passed away tragically more than a decade ago.

The intimate theatre environment at Beaumont is rapidly gaining acclaim among producers, actors and theatre-goers alike and is introducing another element to Kusnierz’ artistic portfolio.  “I admit that I’m learning something new every day and that the exposure to the live performances is having a positive creative impact on me and the other artisans who call Beaumont home,” said Kusnierz, who credits the development of the theatre concept at Beaumont to Lori Triolo, Raul Sanchez Ingles and Christie Will.

“I’m very proud and extremely excited to be working with the theatre and arts community in Vancouver; they’re among the most talented people I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with,” said Kusnierz.