At Herrick District Library, we love seeing our community’s creativity come to life. Our Groundworks space is designed to be a launchpad for local creators, providing free access to high-tech equipment, innovative software, and a supportive environment. Today, we are thrilled to spotlight a maker who has truly utilized the space to expand his artistic boundaries: John “Zeno” Schindler.
From Spray Paint to Digital Innovation
Zeno is a lifetime artist who found his true creative passion in 2013 with spray paint art. Known for capturing vibrant, otherworldly dimensions, he has recently pushed his boundaries further by incorporating digital media and eye-catching glow powder into his workflow.
Zeno discovered Groundworks a few years ago through a co-worker's recommendation. What he found was an accessible suite of creative tools and a team of helpful staff ready to assist. With the library's free equipment, Zeno found a way to bridge the gap between his physical paintings and tangible merchandise using sublimation printing.
While Zeno has experience painting directly onto surfaces, sublimation offers a level of professional durability standard painting can't match because the ink chemically bonds with the material. Today, Zeno transfers his unique designs onto an incredible variety of mediums, including:
- Custom jigsaw puzzles
- Vibrant t-shirts
- Insulated can cozies
- Decorative hand towels
Explore Zeno’s Portals
Free access to production equipment has allowed Zeno to create unique gifts for friends and scale his passion into an online storefront. You can follow his creative journey on Instagram at @myster_zs_portals.
Inspired to start your own project? Stop by Herrick District Library today to explore Groundworks and see what you can create!
