It is a pleasure to introduce Alejandro Gutierrez Chavez to the world of UMakers. As the Executive Director of Arts Connection—The Arts Council of San Bernardino County, Alejandro is a dedicated advocate for the creative economy and the transformative power of art in the Inland Empire.
UMakers, located at 840 W. 9th Street, Unit F in Upland, serves as a critical bridge between traditional artistry and modern industrial technology.
How UMakers Empowers Artists
UMakers helps artists transition from conceptual sketches to professional-grade physical installations through three primary pillars:
1. Access to Industrial-Grade Tools
Many artists are limited by the physical scale of their work or the cost of machinery. UMakers provides professional equipment that allows for precision and scalability:
Laser Cutters: For intricate engraving on wood, acrylic, and glass, or high-precision fabric cutting.
CNC Routers & Mills: Essential for large-scale sculptures, furniture design, and carving complex 3D patterns into wood or metal.
3D Printing (FDM & Resin): Enables rapid prototyping of small components or the creation of complex geometries impossible to achieve by hand.
Vinyl Cutters & Large Format Printing: For mural stencils, gallery signage, and custom decals.
2. Skill Acquisition & "Geeks in Residence"
Artistic vision often outpaces technical software knowledge. UMakers lowers the barrier to entry by teaching artists the "digital-to-physical" workflow:
Software Training: Instruction in Fusion 360, VCarve Pro, and LightBurn helps artists turn digital designs into machine-ready paths.
Certification: Safety and operation classes ensure artists can independently use the shop's heavy machinery.
On-Site Support: Having a "Geek in Residence" means artists aren't alone when troubleshooting a complex CNC carve or a failed 3D print.
3. Economic Empowerment & Prototyping
As a California Mutual Benefit Corporation, UMakers is designed to support the local economy. Artists use the space to:
Small-Batch Manufacturing: Create merchandise, custom frames, or specialized tools for their own practice.
Cost Reduction: By acting as their own fabricators, artists keep more of their commission fees rather than outsourcing production to expensive industrial shops.
Aligning with Arts Connection’s Vision
Alejandro often speaks about the need for "tangible investment" and "cultural infrastructure" in San Bernardino County.
Whether an artist is looking to build a massive public installation for the city of Upland or simply needs to laser-etch a series of limited-edition prints, UMakers provides the tools to make those ideas reality.
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