Workshop SLC is a dynamic art school in South Salt Lake, offering painting, drawing, and ceramics courses for all ages and skill levels. Founded by Lucia Murdock, a passionate advocate for the arts, Workshop SLC is committed to fostering community, empowering creativity, and supporting both serious artists and hobbyists. Through weekly classes and masterclasses taught by top-tier artists flown in from across the country, the school connects education with inspiration.
This blog offers an exclusive inside scoop into Lucia's journey—how she built Workshop SLC to make a lasting difference in the South Salt Lake creative community while paving the way for women business owners.
What sparked your passion for starting your own business, and what excites you the most about your work today?
My passion for starting my own business came from a lifelong mission to bring art closer to people. Back in Mexico, I worked as a museum guide and in several art galleries, which gave me a deep appreciation for how art connects individuals and communities. When I moved to Salt Lake City, I was searching for a way to remain involved in the art world but realized the type of creative space I envisioned didn’t exist—so I decided to create it myself. Today, what excites me most is witnessing the thriving community that has grown over the years. From the incredible talents that have passed through our doors to the friendships and collaborations that have been forged, it’s amazing to see how art continues to unite and inspire people in ways I had only dreamed of when I started.
Can you share a moment when you realized your business was making a real impact, and how did that inspire you to keep going?
In 2024, we received a government grant to bring art to underserved communities, and through that, we reached over 3,000 students across 15 schools. We ran after school programs where kids were fully engaged, excited to learn, and often asked when we’d be back. Seeing how much the students valued those lessons made me realize the real difference we were making. It was a powerful reminder of why I started this journey and motivates me to keep finding ways to bring art to more people.
How do you stay inspired and keep your creativity flowing in your business endeavors?
I stay inspired by surrounding myself with creative people, whether it’s the talented artists we work with, our instructors, or the students who bring fresh perspectives to every class. I’m always asking myself, “What’s next?” or “What could we improve?” to keep pushing the business forward. At the same time, I make it a point to recognize and celebrate our wins, big or small, which helps me stay motivated and appreciate the progress we’ve made.
What role has your network played in your success, and how do you recommend other women build and nurture their own networks?
Joining the South Salt Lake Women in Business Committee was truly a game changer for me. It connected me with so many fantastic women in my city and opened up countless opportunities to bring art to new spaces and communities. Being part of this group has been invaluable in expanding both my business and personal connections. For other women, I recommend seeking out local committees, groups, or programs where you can meet like-minded individuals. Building genuine relationships and staying connected over time can lead to amazing collaborations and opportunities.
What are you most excited about for the future of your business, and how are you planning to achieve those goals?
I’m excited about the possibility of expanding beyond the Salt Lake Valley, potentially even venturing into online classes to reach a broader audience. To achieve this, I plan to continue fostering partnerships and collaborations with talented artists and community organizations. These relationships have been the foundation of our growth so far, and by building on them, I’m confident we can bring our programs to more people!
What resources or networks have been most valuable to you as a business owner, and how can other women leverage similar resources?
Participating in cohorts for women business owners (like WBCU) has been a key resource for me. These programs helped me build relationships with other entrepreneurs, and I make a conscious effort to stay in touch with those I’ve met. We often share resources and utilize each other’s services, creating a strong sense of mutual support. For other women, I recommend leveraging similar resources by joining cohorts or networking programs. Focus on maintaining those connections over time, as they can become invaluable sources of advice, collaboration, and growth.
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