DURHAM, N.C. – 2021 is going to a very special year for a beloved art space in Durham.

Liberty Arts, the studio behind the Bull City's unofficial mascot "Major" in CCB Plaza, is marking a special milestone of 20 years of operation. The studio is unique because it houses artists specializing in a range of mediums: everything from letter pressing to welding.

“I don’t know how to explain it," said Evie Watts, an artist and former director of Liberty Arts. "You walk in the door and the sky’s the limit. What can’t you do here?”

During the pandemic, many stores closed. Much of the art made at the studio didn’t have a shelf to be sold on and the popular classes held at Liberty Arts were on hold. 

Now, glimmers of hope are appearing and classes are starting to open back up or are virtual. 

“You say, 'how do I' and everyone's ears perk up," Watts said. "We’re all like, okay, we know how to do this, because somebody in here knows how and wants to show you that the thing. We love to share what we love to do.”

Liberty Arts is glad to still be standing and celebrating after a tumultuous year. 

“We are going to be one of those overnight sensations that took 20 years, how about that? Right? But we are definitely alive and kicking.”

Liberty Arts is celebrating its 20th year all year long.

It will culminate in a special iron pour in the fall that will take place in Durham’s Central Park.