08/04/2026
95 days locked out of our studio…..
Yesterday brought an important update in the civil case arising from the May 1 lockout of Art on Clay. Judge J.D. Watts is handling this case, which concerns the legality of the lockout, my request for restoration of access, and the damages I’m requesting.
Judge Watts said that Judge Carolina Stark’s earlier rulings will matter in this case. Judge Stark ruled in my favor on both utility-overbilling issues and dismissed the landlord’s eviction counterclaims with prejudice. Both sides confirmed that they do not plan to appeal those rulings.
Since the lockout, the studio has been emptied despite my repeated requests that everything remain in place while I seek restoration of access. During the property-removal process, our belongings were placed outside on the lawn, and the studio’s custom-built furniture and shelving were disassembled and placed outside as well. I am deeply sorry to everyone whose work and belongings have been caught up in this process.
I recently hired an attorney, and I am very grateful that he represented me at yesterday’s status conference. He will now be revising and broadening my claims, with the next stage beginning through an amended complaint next month and continuing through mediation in April of next year.
Judge Watts strongly encouraged the parties to resolve the case, while making clear that he is prepared to take it to trial if necessary.
To my customers and community: I am sorry this process is taking so long. I know you deserve more certainty than I can give you right now. Please know that I am working hard to reopen Art on Clay, protect the community we built, and preserve the craft, creativity, and connection that made our studio so special.
