NCET Biz Tips: Explore Reno’s Own Maker Space

NCET helps you explore business and technology

Calling all creatives and creative hopefuls – did you know that Reno is home to a vibrant Maker Space?  If you’ve ever wondered where some of our area’s most beautiful and unique sculptures were dreamt up and built, look no farther than The Generator. 

Many of Reno’s most well-known displays, such as the Space Whale, along with artwork on exhibit all over the world, were made possible by the resources, collaboration and curiosity of The Generator collective.

The Generator, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, welcomes anyone interested in working with their hands to sculpt unique and innovative art using media such as woodworking, metal sculpting, painting, dancing and much more.

Artforms big and small can be found within their walls.  Perpetually boasting an array of canvas paintings as well as works of clay peppered between power tools, metal and wood, The Generator is home to creators and visionaries of virtually every kind.

Members of this collaborative consortium gather to provide guidance, training and creative perspective on all manner of projects by bringing their unique skills, educations and backgrounds to the proverbial table.

Home to more than just artists, the Generator regularly hosts members in other professions, such as scientists, inventors and engineers in hopes of utilizing the space to take an idea from concept to reality.

For novices interested in bringing to life an artistic vision, The Generator offers several Common Shops that are open to all members.  Notable among these shops are the Wood Shop, the Metal Shop, the Tech Lab and the Textiles Room.  There is an endless variety of donated tools to work with as well as mentorship programs for those hoping to learn a new craft.

For more seasoned makers, the space’s collaborative team are prepped and ready to help map out any project, develop timelines and find the proper creative space, needed tools and other resources.

The Generator’s commitment to providing space and tools for building unique and often sizeable artwork is matched only by their team’s commitment to educating local youth and spreading their love of creating.  New in 2021, they plan to begin offering online programs and workshops that combine STEAM learning with interactive, hands-on experiences and art projects to K-12 students in the northern Nevada community.

Those hoping to tour the facility and experience a maker space firsthand will have to let temptation build, as The Generator plans to move to a new and expansive location on Oddie Boulevard in Sparks, NV – dubbed The Oddie District.  This new art hub will feature even more workspaces, lofts, shops, food and beverage options and several other amenities, centered on providing an even more collaborative, inviting and creative environment.  Developing the new home of The Generator is no small task.  With a footprint of roughly 40,000 square feet, there will even be an outdoor art park for visitor enjoyment.

Learn more about The Generator during NCET’s Tech Wednesday virtual networking event from 4:00 to 4:30 p.m. and its live streaming event from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on March 10th. For more information, visit www.NCETwed.org

Dave Archer is president/CEO of NCET, which produces educational and networking events to help people explore business and technology. (www.NCET.org)