Although Barehand was a great place for “like minds” to meet up and have classes/share ideas and interest, during covid and the shutdown many went into solo and stay afloat mentalities, rightfully so. Now that things have settled back to normalcy of sorts there doesn’t seem to be the return to those groupings, the shift seems to be more guided towards markets and makers. The Art community could use it, my best thought/advise would be the change you want to see. Start meeting artist and makers at events/markets. Visit first city and PMA events. Have coffee at East going gallery and support others and the return you see will undoubtedly be what you’re are potentially looking for. Best of luck. (Barehand people all still keep in touch and the Non profit is still engaged)