R.J. Shay

R.J. Shay is a principal with Studio X Design in St. Louis, Missouri. Located in a turn-of-the-century portrait studio, R.J. and his associates bend their brains and work their magic in a work setting unlike most creative workplaces.

The historic Benton Park location has been beautifully and faithfully restored to recreate the ambiance that greeted thousands over the years who came by foot, streetcar and buggy to have their portraits recorded for posterity.

Though the building is 100 years old, Studio X is only the second owner to occupy the space - having purchased the property from the original family. Gustav Schneidt, an immigrant German photographer, custom built the studio in 1903 to suit his ever growing portrait demands. He and his only son operated the business until 1965 by which time both father and son had passed. The son’s widow continued to occupy the property until 1981 when infirmities would not allow her to continue living there.

The studio was filled with photographic artifacts, glass plates and other articles that have been saved. The family presented R.J. with an original photo portrait of Gustav Schneidt out of gratitude for preserving a piece of their history as well as that of St. Louis. Located blocks from Anheuser-Busch brewery, the world’s largest, on warm summer mornings the scent of hops and malt permeates the air like mom’s hot apple pie cooling on the window sill… only better.

The original buggy post still graces the street where many a horse was tied while memories were being created inside. We’d like to believe we are continuing that activity of memorable creativity… only without the horse.

R.J is curator for the Mad Magazine Exhibit running June 22 – September 6, 2008 and featured artist in the concurrent Volunteer Exhibit.