by Wendy Frances 

The “third space” concept, popularized by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, refers to a social environment distinct from home and work, where people can gather, relax, and engage in informal interactions, fostering community and a sense of belonging. 

The art of screenprinting and printmaking itself demands space. The tools are large, bulky, and vary in sizes and requirements. The materials can be endless, depending on experimentation and desired outcomes. The product requires space to dry, set, and lay still without disturbance. These parameters make it necessary to provide ample space in order to enjoy these mediums to their fullest potentials. 

Janina A. Lorens, one of the founding Little Giant Collective members, is a printmaker and book artist who works with a variety of mediums to create narrative imagery. Janina, among a group of other artists, creatives, makers, and local activists, shared a common vision and need while exploring these mediums: a space to utilize and store printmaking tools. 

This is how the humble beginnings of Little Giant Collective sprouted into the Santa Cruz Community; as a small shed off Meder Street near UC Santa Cruz in 2016. Within two years, LGC saw the opportunity to expand as their membership of 11 artists, craftsfolk and musicians were ready to move to a larger, professional workspace where they could realize their shared dream with an independent fully functioning printshop focusing on relief, letterpress, intaglio and silkscreen printing.

The idea wasn’t just about storage, it was about access to tools, workshops, shared materials, and common ground to speak up and out using print making as a catalyst for change. Having a dedicated space to create, free from limitations, was essential to the founding members. 

What began as a small shed with a few artists has grown into a thriving collective—proof that when creative people have access to space and tools, incredible things can happen.

Amanda Payne, a local tattoo artist and LGC member, uses the space to print bandanas, shirts, and flash sheets infused with her signature Western-Americana cowgirl and floral aesthetic. While sharing the history of LGC, Amanda also shared a glimpse towards the future;  “A big goal is to become a non-profit and to be able to offer more programming for our community.” 

Amanda shares a growing, mutual interest and desire with the LGC members in regards to offering more workshops and dedicated class opportunities that help interested creatives have access to the materials, tools, and space in order to learn and develop new skills. 

LGC is committed to being an accessible and affordable place to create, showcase, and sell artwork. They have many free and donation-based events, including the First Friday Art Tour, as well as offering classes, workshops, and memberships.

Interested in attending a show at Little Giant Collective? Follow @little.giant.collective on Instagram to keep up with future events! 

Little Giant Collective is located at 115 River St. South, Santa Cruz, CA. 95060