In 1979 John Foelber (Fel-ber) started renting the building at 706 Richmond Ave. after moving his pottery studio from Spring Green, Wisconsin. For about 7 years his main income was from art festivals throughout southeastern United States. He became known for his one-of-a-kind carved lanterns and hired a team of artists to help with production. The lanterns were even sold at Foley's Department stores in the early 1980s.

In the mid 1980's the oil bust hit Houston hard and art festivals were no longer a successful way to make a living. John began renting out studio space and teaching pottery classes to supplement his income.