Photos and interview by Stacie Joy
Holographic Studios recently relocated from East 26th Street, its home since 1979, to 173 Second St. between Avenue A and Avenue B.
I stopped by to speak with studio owner and creative director Sy Rivers to discuss what, exactly, holograms are, the journey from apprentice to owner, and how they are getting settled into their new location.
What is a hologram, and what can people expect when they visit the space?
A hologram is a photograph of three-dimensional impressions that are on the surface of light waves. This means they are true 3-D, not an illusion! The holographic works in the gallery reveal more to the image and shift as you move around them, and also display beautiful rainbow colors due to the visible spectrum of light.
There are two main types: reflection (where the hologram reflects light to create a three-dimensional image) and transmission (where light shines through). Both of these types are currently on display, as well as some more niche techniques. We also have a large amount of vintage holographic stickers and accessories from the 1980s and 1990s for sale, which make amazing gifts. Starting in May, we will also have a laser laboratory and darkroom available for classes.
Our old location was very beloved due to its role in New York history, the history of holography, and all the amazing memories it holds from the last 46 years. But when our founder, Dr. Laser (aka Jason Sapan), decided to leave the city to pursue the next chapter in his life, it just made sense to have the Studio move into its new chapter with a location change.
The East Village has personal significance for me as someone who grew up in the city and spent the formative years of my life in this neighborhood. I feel very proud to be continuing a legacy of local avant-garde art! It took five months to find the perfect spot, but when I saw the gallery on Second Street, it felt like everything aligned.
Our old Studio was more of a hidden gem, but this space gives me the opportunity to introduce many more people to holography who otherwise may never have seen anything like this before. What we do is so unique, so it makes perfect sense we would find a new home in the East Village.
Can you tell us a bit about your journey from apprentice to owner?
I've always had an interest in holography ever since I received a Polaroid Future Vision sticker as a child (which we actually sell at the Studio now). After producing my first holograms in college and returning home to New York upon graduation, I was looking for a way to continue studying this incredible medium.
I met Dr. Laser and started working at Holographic Studios as an intern. There have been so many incredible interns at the Studio who have gone on to achieve award-winning careers in their chosen creative field. Jason has been an inspiration to many, myself included.
Over the years, as we became closer and cemented a mentor/mentee relationship, I expressed a desire to devote my life to the art of holography and make sure that it doesn't become a lost art. So when the time came for him to close up shop on 26th Street and move on to new horizons, I was the obvious choice to pass the torch and continue his legacy.
What would you tell people about terminology: laser, hologram, holograph, etc.?
The terminology can get a little tricky, so here's a quick overview.
LASER stands for Light Amplification through Stimulated Emission of Radiation. It is a device that produces a concentrated beam of light by stimulating atoms or molecules to emit light at particular wavelengths. We use different types of lasers for different types of holography.
The preferred word is "hologram." A "holograph" is a handwritten document, not related to what we do. "Holography" is the word for the technique and art form, and a "holographer" is someone who produces holograms. All things pertaining to holography are referred to as "holographic."
What has the neighborhood reception been like since you opened last month?
The reception has been wonderful! It's been so great getting to know the community over the past few weeks. I look forward to forging and deepening connections with local art spaces, small businesses, and our neighbors going forward.
Holographic Studios welcomes everyone. So come visit, whether you're interested in the medium, have an idea for a custom project, or want to see art and learn something new. 
Studio hours are: Tuesday 1 p.m.-6 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday 12 p.m.-6 p.m., or by appointment.
You can follow the Studio on Instagram for updates on exhibits and other special events.
