Project SPACElift
Capital Campaign + Relocation
SPACES' relocation plans were predicated on the expanding needs of the creative community for which the nonprofit was founded, and that we have continued to serve since 1978. The new LEED certified home of SPACES is designed to support the creation of artwork and enhanced services for artists and audiences members alike. Our 9,300 sq ft ground floor parcel is outfitted with 2 galleries totaling 4,000 sq ft, screening room, apartment for visiting artists, workshop and studio areas, and dedicated space for community outreach programs--within walking distance of other cultural and educational organizations, shops, and restaurants.
Currently there is no other resource of this kind in Cleveland that offers art production facilities, residency and exhibition opportunities, and a truly welcoming venue for inclusive discourse about cutting-edge art. The amenities in this location position us as the resource for artists working in experimental ways and deepen our connection to a broader audience.
Since early 2015, we have been preparing to plug into the cultural infrastructure of the burgeoning Hingetown neighborhood by forging connections with residents and spearheading a consortium of 20 nearby organizations and businesses that aims to increase free large-scale arts programming (Hingetown Culture Works). The relocation announcement and capital campaign have led to heightened interest in SPACES, taking the form of new institutional partnerships, increased national press coverage, the backing of local and statewide elected officials, and the largest gifts in our history.
SPACES closed on the property in June 2016. Construction occurred in 2 phases: interior from July 2016 through November 2016 and exterior in March 2017. SPACES relocated from Superior Viaduct to the Van Rooy Coffee Building in late-November and opened to the public on January 14, 2017 with a highly anticipated weekend of festivities. Our inaugural exhibitions opened on January 27, kicking off a year of 13 major artist projects and 50+ related events.
Partners: SPACES Capital Campaign Committee, Process Creative Studios (John C. Williams, project architect), Berusch Development Partners
