When businesses open up, it’s expected they will endure financial losses in the first year. But what happens when the new business is forced to close down after two months of opening? Inspired Minds Arts Center in Buda has taken that hit, yet is finding new ways to persevere.

“When we closed our doors, I think that Susan and I were feeling lost and upset and like this might be the end,” said Sinéad Whiteside, co-owner of Inspired Minds. “But you can’t give up, we had to pivot like a lot of businesses were doing.”

This brand-new business, located at Buda’s old city hall, opened its doors in January to teach and share art with the community. And although the owners had to close 6 weeks after the grand opening, they found two new methods to support their work so they can survive the economic havoc of the coronavirus.

Susan Guerra and Whiteside, co-owners of Inspired Minds, asked that the city of Buda defer their rent payment.

“It’s our biggest expense,” Guerra said. “We told the city that this was unprecedented and that we felt we already brought so much to the community and we respectfully need a suspension of rent.”

On April 7, the city council voted to waive the art center’s rent fee for two months, forgiving a total of $8,000. Guerra said the city’s response “further solidifies their support for the arts. It shows us that they see we’re an important part of downtown.”

Waiving the rental fee will not keep the two afloat; they decided to continue providing their service and, in a way, their work has even grown in new ways.

Whiteside brought the art experience to the virtual world, where other communities outside of Buda and even outside of the U.S. can participate in art courses. The introductory classes are free-of-charge and the advanced ones cost $10 a household for anyone to watch.

Going online brings the two some income, but their motive is larger than financial. Whiteside believes this is a great opportunity to expand the name of local artists. It also gives people in quarantine a way to let out their creativity and decompress from the stress.

Guerra and Whiteside researched and read about the positive effects of creating art during quarantine which convinced them that they should provide their services online.

“The community depends on us as an outlet,” Whiteside told the Hays Free Press.
“There are a lot of people worried, stressed and that need an outlet. Some live alone, some feel frustrated, and
some kids feel bored and cooped up. We thought if we could have some artists go online and give classes, then
we could help support emotional being.”

Their courses are interactive and provide education on painting, sculpting, intuitive art journaling and more. Providing online classes may also be an idea that is here to stay after
business shutdowns are over.

When the coronavirus regulations are lifted, the two hope to stay in business. They have been working with the city to develop art in public places to strengthen the presence of art. Guerra said if they cannot survive this hiccup, then they cannot fulfill their mission of bringing the city together through art.

Inspired Minds has already brought joy to many who participate in their classes. One woman told them she
has not interacted with an adult since the quarantine, so having them around has relieved her. Community members have reached out showing gratitude for this business and all the inspiration they bring along.

“I appreciate your heroic efforts in protecting all,” wrote a 75-yearold senior citizen. “I know when all this dies
down you’ll be bombarded with new artists and participants who are excited to belong with your new Inspired Minds Art Center. I know I am.”