Art is in the eye of the beholder; it shapes our lives and we don’t even know it. Maybe it is a color that inspires creativity, a song or a life experience. Somehow, someway everyone is affected by art or their surroundings. That is the story of Marilee Lasch, owner of Day Star Studio located at 200 N. Magma Ave. Her three story castle is chock full of art created by her and other artists, a chance to tour the home can be a real treat.
What brought you to Superior: Marilee Lasch found Superior after visiting the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Her brother Sam Lowe had written a story about the Arboretum and she came with a friend to visit. She had been finding much enjoyment by visiting Sedona and Jerome and had been looking for an artist community to retire in. When she saw Superior sitting in a “bowl” between Apache Leap and Picket Post mountains, “my heart (leaped) up,” she explained. That was when she decided she found the place she wanted to live. She came into town and visited with then resident Dr. Webber and asked if he knew about any houses for sale. Bill Still, a friend of Dr. Webber, said he had a house for sale, so she walked up Magma and saw this castle like house and decided to give Mr. Still and earnest deposit to buy the home and the rest is history. “I live in Superior, because it is superior,” she says.
What is Day Star Studio: Marilee set out to make her home a reflection of her art, a labyrinth is part of her out door landscaping it is a place to reflect and let go of your burdens. Sitting areas throughout her home and yard provide spots to visit with friends and enjoy the scenery of Superior. Most of the art work and interior design have been designed by her and local craftsmen have helped with completing many of the projects at her home.
At first Marilee was hoping to have her first floor of her home be a gallery and store but town zoning requirements would not allow her to have that kind of enterprise in her home. New zoning came into affect two years ago which allows her to host private events in her home, teach art lessons and host boutique sales. Her annual holiday boutique is hosted the first weekend in December each year and features her art work along with other artisans from Superior and the surrounding areas.
Marilee teaches beginning art classes using the “Artist’s Way” curriculum which is a great way for everyone to discover their individual artistic talents. She also teaches mosaic tile classes and will also have beginning beading classes in her schedule soon.
Marilee’s home was featured on the “Arizona Highways” television show several years ago, she often has visitors come to tour her home. Her home is often on the Superior Chamber of Commerce Home Tour and private tours can be arranged in advance.
Marilee’s art is available for purchase at local stores including the SunFlour Market, Wild Cow Gallery, Sole to Soul Awakenings and also at the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts in Globe.
Advice for future and fellow entrepreneurs and artists: “Dream but stay in the moment, take it one step at a time,” she explained. Marilee shared how when she first moved to Superior she thought changes would come so fast, but she found that doing what you can in the moment in being patient will bring the changes you need to move forward.
The “In Your Biz” column is sponsored weekly by the Superior Chamber of Commerce in an effort to further promote their business members. To learn more about the Superior Chamber of Commerce you can visit their website www.superiorarizonachamber.org or call them at 520-689-0200. The Chamber meets the third Wednesday of every month at their building 165 Main St. in Superior, Arizona. Those planning on attending the Chamber luncheons do need to RSVP prior to the meeting, please call Deb McKee to RSVP at 520-827-1773.