Thursday, October 22, 2009

The Gateway Art Center has 2 studios left

There are only 2 individual artists studios available in a wonderful new visual arts building!

Located on Rhode Island Avenue just across the DC line in the Gateway Arts District, the Gateway Art Center building has a total of 12 visual art studios and multiple galleries. The last two available studios are right off the loading dock at the 39th street entrance. Studio 207C is 418 sf and rents for $348 per month PLUS utilities and Studio 207D is 432 sf and rents for $360 per month PLUS utilities.

This warehouse was completely rehabilitated has really turned out beautifully. With all new walls, windows and heating/cooling system you need to see it to believe it. There are eleven (11) artists, one arts nonprofit and one government-sponsored arts program starting to move in.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Artist Studio - Annapolis - Farm Setting

A nice stand-alone building behind a farm house outside of Annapolis - $1,000 / month. More info here

Monday, September 28, 2009

Center for Creative Emergence

The Center for Creative Emergence, based in DC, is committed to the study, practice, and experience of emergent creativity for relevant business results and positive social transformation. Check out their web site here.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Creativity in Business Conference - 10/4 in DC

Creativity is the capital of the new economy. Join creativity thought leaders, pioneering entrepreneurs and business innovators - in the fields of applied creativity and innovation, organizational change and development, social media and leadership - from around the country for a full-day event focused on:

• Harnessing and focusing individual, group and organizational creativity
• Organizational structures/business models conducive for creativity and innovation
• The integration of creativity, purpose, business and serving the greater good

More info and conference schedule can be found here.

Monday, September 21, 2009

Creative Forum - Coming in November

I have word from Sakina Kahn in the Office of Planning that they are working on a Creative Forum in the middle of November. More details as they become available.

Adams Morgan - Studio For Rent

1,200 SF of space for rent in Adams Morgan in a renovated building. Cost is $2,575 per month. More details here.

Friday, September 18, 2009

Gallery for Rent - 1515 14th Street NW

Giorgio Furioso is renting out his second floor gallery space in his building on 14th Street. Check out the details here - $8,200 / month for 2,200 SF of nice gallery space.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Old Numark Gallery for Rent - Downtown DC

The beautiful Numark Gallery space at 625-627 E Street NW, in the heart of Penn Quarter, is for rent. Only about $13,000 / month. Check out the flyer here.

You can check out the space in person when G Fine Arts does a one-off of the works of Jefferson Pinder and Jose Ruiz. Opening reception is September 26. G Fine Arts web site is here.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Small Studio to Rent in Baltimore

Check out this listing for a 600 SF studio on E. Patapsco Ave. - $600 per month, including heat. More details here.

Lecture - Archetypes of Creativity

Archetypes of Creativity with Julie Bondanza, PhD

Thursday, September 17
6:30-8:30PM
Free & open to the public

Keeping creativity alive is as important to the soul as good nutrition is for the well being of the body. It is, as C.G. Jung said, "one of the five basic instincts." In this two-hour lecture/discussion, Dr. Bondanza will explore archetypal images of the creative process to uncover practical applications to present-day problems of creativity. The archetypal dynamics of the creative process will be demonstrated through a selection of creation myths, dreams, and fairy tales.

Seating available on a first come, first served basis.

The Joan Hisaoka Healing Arts Gallery at Smith Farm Center
1632 U Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Comprehensive Plan - Time for Amendments

The Office of Planning (OP) has launched the first Amendment Cycle for the 2006 Comprehensive Plan, the District's 20-year blueprint for the city.

OP, along with an interagency evaluation team, conducted an analysis of the 200+ amendment proposals received and has completed a report with draft recommendations on which amendment proposals should be adopted.

Come to the meeting on September 22 to learn about OP's draft recommendations and comment on the Draft Amendment Report.
Tuesday, September 22
6:30 pm - 8 pm
Judiciary Square Old Council Chamber
441 4th Street, NW (One Judiciary Square)
If you are unable to attend the September 22 meeting, you can attend one of the “evening office hour” sessions that OP will hold. Staff will be available from 6 pm to 8 pm on the following dates:

Thursday, September 17
Tuesday, September 29
Thursday, October 1

For a list of amendments, visit the OP web site here.

Living Storage Quarters

Living Storage Quarters is a company that designs, builds and delivers small, stylish sheds that can be used for a variety of uses, including artist studios. Check out their web site here.

Monday, September 14, 2009

City First Homes - Info Session

City First Homes is a new nonprofit housing trust in Washington that is developing new, affordable homes across the city in order to expand housing options for the workforce.

On Tue Sept 22 at 630 they will be holding a free information session near 14th and U. For more info, contact Jyothi at info@cfhomes.org or call 202 745 4486.

Check out the City First Homes web site here. The program on the 22nd is not specifically geared towards artists and other creatives, but the subject matter will be of interest to all those looking for affordable housing.

Lease Gallery space in Dupont Circle

Check out this Craigslist post. For lease - small gallery space for $2K per month.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Bluemont Virginia - Several space options!

Looking for space out near Leesburg, Virginia? Check out these Craigslist posts for several buildings for lease in the historic town of Bluemont - here, here and here.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Report - DC Must Rethink Economic Development

The Downtown BID and DC's Office of Economic Development have produced a report that pushes DC to move away from a land development focus towards a job creation focus.

Read more in the Washington Business Journal Here.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Developing Affordable Space for Artists

A Summary of Development Projects Funded by the Local Initiatives Support Corporation

Read more Here.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Creative DC Action Agenda - Fall Meeting

The DC Office of Planning, the Washington, DC Economic Partnership, and the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities have been working for more than a year to find ways to support creative employment and business opportunities and promote revitalizing and enlivening underserved areas through the arts and creative uses.

To begin executing the Creative DC Action Agenda, as well as the Green Collar Jobs Initiative and the Retail Action Strategy, a forum where public, private and non-profit stakeholders can help advance the city’s creative, green and retail sectors, will be held this fall. For more information or to receive an invitation to the event, or both, contact Sakina Khan at sakina.khan@dc.gov.

Monday, September 7, 2009

Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) is dedicated to helping community residents transform distressed neighborhoods into healthy and sustainable communities of choice and opportunity.

Read more Here.

Database of Vacant Retail Space in DC

Looking for vacant retail space? What about creative space for an art studio or interior design firm?

The Washington, DC Economic Partnership, is expanding its database of 265 vacant and soon-to-be-available sites in DC and introducing what will be the city’s first comprehensive site location survey to help businesses locate available retail space in the city. Using cameras with built-in Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to photograph and record information on occupied and vacant mixed-use, retail and commercial storefronts, the organization has combed commercial corridors such as Minnesota, Georgia and Wisconsin Avenues and South Capitol and Kennedy Streetsareas not currently covered by an existing neighborhood business improvement district or community improvement district.

Look for the additional information to be posted at www.wdcep.com/ by the end of this month.

Friday, September 4, 2009

District Begins New Affordable Housing Program

From the Press Release:
August 14, 2009

District Begins New Affordable Housing Program

(Washington, DC) – Mayor Adrian M. Fenty on Friday announced the District has implemented the District’s Inclusionary Zoning program, which affords private sector development companies the right to additional density for their projects in exchange for making at least 8 percent of the units in the project affordable.

“We’re building an inclusive city,” said Mayor Fenty. “And that means making sure there are high-quality housing options for residents at every income level throughout the city. We worked very hard to strike the right balance in putting together this program so that it will create as much affordable housing as possible while minimizing any potential burden on the development community.”

Read More Here.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Metlife Innovative Space Award

The Metlife Innovative Space Awards (ISA) is a competitive national funding program that recognizes outstanding efforts in the design and development of affordable space for artists. The program emphasizes the benefits artist spaces yield for both artists and their communities. In November 2009, the Metlife Innovative Space Awards will announce awards ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 to provide support for up to five winning projects.

Read more about it Here.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Falls Church - New Arts District

Missy Frederick reports in the Washington Business Journal that Falls Church has approved a new Arts District.
Communities across the Washington area are investigating the concept of arts districts as catalysts for economic development.

Proponents say tax and building incentives in the districts can lure developers to build artist space, spur the growth of artistic venues and draw more people to arts-related events.

The most recent advocate is Falls Church, where the City Council voted in early August to establish an arts and cultural district.

Read more Here.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Urban Land Institute - Urban Marketplace Conference

ULI Washington's annual Urban Marketplace, a day-long conference and expo, will bring together the private, nonprofit, and public sectors to explore redevelopment opportunities and best practices in emerging neighborhoods and corridors across the Washington metropolitan region. The conference is on Tuesday September 15th and costs $75 - $225 depending on your occupation. Find out more info Here.

Monday, August 31, 2009

LINC - artist space resources

Artist Space: The Big Picture
Access to affordable space plays a significant role in the ability of artists to produce artwork and contribute to the fabric of communities.
Read more HERE.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Back After Hiatus

And we're back!
Its been a busy summer, so posts on the blog have been few and far between. But I am able to refocus on arts and real estate once again, so look for more frequent posts as we move into the fall.

- Paul Ruppert

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Rhode Island Avenue: Diamond of the District

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development today released for public comment an economic development plan for the Rhode Island Avenue NE Great Streets Corridor. The document "Rhode Island Avenue: Diamond of the District" outlines recommendations which are expected to guide an estimated $1.2 billion in private and public investment in a mix of uses through the year 2025.

The draft plan can be accessed here.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Office space for Non-Profits - Columbia Heights

Two office spaces are available for lease at the Emergence Community Arts Collective at 733 Euclid St. NW to a non-profit, 501c3 organization working in DC.

1) Second floor office, 350 sf (3-4 workstations) with a private full bath. Rent is $650 per month plus utilities. Available now.

2) First floor office, 150 sf (1 workstation) with shared bath. Rent is $350 which includes utilities. Available July 1st.

Parking is available. Contact Sylvia Robinson at sylvia@ecacollective.org or (202) 462-2285.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

List of FHA Approved Condos

If you are looking to use FHA financing to buy a condo, then be sure that the condo has been approved by going to this HUD website.

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

HPAP Orientation - Sat, May 30

Latino Economic Development Corporation is holding another orientation meeting for people interested in learning more about the Home Purchase Assistance Program on Saturday May 30 at 10am.

More details here.

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Noa Gallery - Reopening in DC

NOA Gallery & Design Studio (New, Old & Abstract) is owned and operated by Michael Little, artist and designer. Located at 132 Rhode Island Avenue, N.W., NOA Gallery is presenting a long awaited reopening on Saturday afternoon, May 16, from 12-4. NOA Gallery is located within the Shaw, Bloomingdale, and LeDroit Park boundaries of Washington, D.C. The Gallery will be open from Wednesday to Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday hours from noon to 6 p.m., all other times by appointment (202-483- 7328)

Saturday, May 9, 2009

Studios at Savage Mill

Savage Mill in Savage, MD is a historic complex of buildings spread over 175,000 square feet and is now home to antique centers, home furnishing stores, craft galleries, artist studios, specialty shops, and destination restaurants.
Find out information about resident artists here and call 410.792.2820 x.229 for more information about studio space.

Friday, May 8, 2009

Gateway Arts District Open Studio Tour - May 16

A critical mass of arts activity is emerging in the Prince George's County Gateway Arts District featuring studios, galleries and businesses concentrated along a 2.1-mile stretch of the Route 1/Rhode Island Avenue corridor. Now in its 5th year, the annual Gateway Arts District Open Studio Tour will showcase more than 100 artists throughout the four municipalities of Mount Rainier, Brentwood, North Brentwood and Hyattsville on Saturday, May 16 from Noon to 5 pm. The event is free and open to the public.
More information here.

Studios at Arlington Arts Center

Now accepting applications. Deadline is May 22. For more information check out AAC-Studios. The studios are shared spaces and cost $150/month.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Studios at Montpelier - Deadline approaches

Next week is the deadline for the applications for Studios at Montpelier in Prince George's County.

The Montpelier Arts Center (MAC) rents studio space to qualified artists at a rate of $8.00 per square foot per year. To become eligible to rent space, you must be selected by jury.

The next juried competition for studio space at MAC is scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, 2009.

To enter, please bring the completed application form and up to five examples of your work to the Montpelier Arts Center on Tuesday, May 12, 2009 between 9:00 A.M. - 8:00 P.M. Those who are selected by the jury will be granted a one-year lease; or, if there is no space available, their names will be placed on a waiting list.

For more information, please call (301) 953-1993 or (410) 792-0664 or TDD (301) 490-2329, or email us at Montpelier.Arts@pgparks.com.

For more information visit Montpelier Arts Center Studios

Focus Group - Artist Housing in NoMa

CuDC is holding a focus group on artist housing in Noma next Wednesday. Here is the info -
Participate in our focus group: Be a part of bringing affordable rental housing for artists to DC. CuDC is working with the Cohen Companies to bring you 30 artist units, including 1 and 2 bedroom layouts, ready for move-in by February 2010. Come learn about this project at 3rd and K NE. Join us for a focus group on Wednesday, May 13th from 6-8 pm at Flashpoint (916 G Street NW) to hear about the project, see the designs and share your thoughts. We'll have floorplans, finishes samples and more. RSVP to housing@culturaldc.org by Wednesday, May 6th.

for more info:
Cultural Development Corporation
t: 202.315.1305

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Happenings in your Neighborhood

Thinking about moving to a new neighborhood? Want to get a fix on all the nitty gritty details - crime reports, bulk trash pickup requests, etc.? Then subscribe to DC.everyblock.com . From their web site:
“What’s happening in my neighborhood?”

For a long time, that’s been a tough question to answer. In dense, bustling cities like Chicago, New York and San Francisco, the number of daily media reports, government proceedings and local Internet conversations is staggering. Every day, a wealth of local information is created — officials inspect restaurants, journalists cover fires and Web users post photographs — but who has time to sort through all of that?

Our mission at EveryBlock is to solve that problem. We aim to collect all of the news and civic goings-on that have happened recently in your city, and make it simple for you to keep track of news in particular areas. We’re a geographic filter — a “news feed” for your neighborhood, or, yes, even your block.

You can subscribe to the feed by selecting a neighborhood, zip code, block, etc. and receive a daily or weekly summary.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Application for DC Tax Abatement Program

Click here for more information on the Tax Abatement program for first time homebuyers in DC. This is a link to the 2007 form. In 2008 they raised the house price limit to $326,700 and also raised the income limits slightly.

Lower Income Home Ownership Tax Abatement

Eligible homeowners, including non-profit organizations and shared equity investors, may receive a five-year tax abatement and be exempt from paying recordation and transfer taxes. To qualify, you must meet the following conditions:

+The property must be owner-occupied;
+The owner must meet the income level requirement; and
+The property must be less than $327,000 in value

If you have questions about if you qualify for this program or whether you can take advantage of it when you buy your house or condo, send me an email - pwr (at) ruppertrealestate.com - and I will try to answer your questions.

Monday, April 27, 2009

HPAP - Am I eligible for a loan?

To be eligible for HPAP assistance, you must meet the following criteria:

+Be the head of the household and a first-time homebuyer.
+Be a low-to-moderate income resident, based on the Department’s standards.
+Cannot have had ownership interest in any residential real estate within the three years prior to application.
+The purchased home must be the borrower’s primary residence and must be located within the District of Columbia.
+Possess a good credit rating.

Applications are prioritized based on the following:
-low-income, elderly, handicapped, disabled or displaced District residents
-other District residents
-non-residents who have been employed in the District for one year prior to application
-non-residents who have lived in the District for three years as an adult

Building Credit

What do you do when you don't own a home or a car and don't have an extensive credit history to qualify for a mortgage? One solution is to build a credit history based on the bills that you pay and have those bills recognized by an alternative credit agency.

I don't have any direct experience with PRBC, but it seems like a great idea for artists who are trying to build evidence of good credit in order to buy a house.

From their web site:
PRBC is America's Alternative Credit Bureau, providing a helpful service to the over 50 million people with limited or no credit history. If you pay your monthly bills on time, PRBC can help you build credit to qualify for a mortgage, car loan, and better interest rates.

Find out more at www.prbc.com. Their web site includes links to several articles about this new way to build credit. As always, Caveat Emptor!

Affordable Housing - HPAP

People with low to moderate incomes (including artists and other creatives) might think that they’ve been priced out of the housing market in DC, but in fact this could be a good time to buy a home in the city. Along with historically-low interest rates and falling home values, both the federal and city governments provide a wide variety of programs to assist people with modest incomes to find the house of their dreams, from providing low-interest loans to property tax exemptions.

The Home Purchase Assistance Program is administered by the DC Department of Housing and Community Development. Eligible participants could qualify for $44,000 in down payment and closing assistance.

Several community organizations hold regular training sessions and the Latino Economic Development Corporation is holding an orientation session on Saturday May 9 from 10 am - noon. From their web site:
Learn how you can obtain up to $44,000 in downpayment and closing cost assistance for the purchase of your first home in DC. In this brief session you will learn the steps for applying for this 0% loan from the DC government and the process of home purchase. Afterwards you will be ready for your first appointment with an LEDC housing counselor who will assess your individual situation and goals.

Fore more information visit the LEDC web site here and click on Events and Trainings.

Hyattsville Arts Festival - May 16

Thinking about a move to Hyatsville?

Its time for the second annual Hyattsville Arts Festival. You'll have a chance to check out the scene and talk to over 35 artists who live and/or work in the neighborhood.

More details here.

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Blagden Alley - warehouse to rent

Large studio available for lease on 2nd floor of converted warehouse on historic Blagden Alley. 1,890 sq. ft. + 800 sq. ft. loft. $3,200/month plus utilities.
Check out more details here.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Fast Cities 2009 - Vancouver

The host of the 2010 Winter Games is going for green, using its big moment as a chance to catalyze change. All 18 buildings in Vancouver's Olympic Village are being built to LEED Gold standards, except the community center and one residential building, which are targeting LEED Platinum.

Read more about Vancouver here.

Fast Cities 2009 - Tucson

It all began with a dare. In 2003, Tucson native and former surgeon general Richard Carmona challenged his friend, Mayor Robert E. Walkup, to turn their hometown into the model of a healthy city. He has done it, reshaping his city into a place where health and safety aren't an afterthought, but an integral part of municipal planning.

Read more about Tucson here.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Fast Cities 2009 - New Orleans

The recovery of post-Katrina New Orleans has unleashed a new generation of social entrepreneurs. A sterling example: the Broadmoor Improvement Association and its dynamic president, LaToya Cantrell. Broadmoor is a racially mixed, middle-class historic district dating to the 1920s. During Katrina, it saw 7 feet of flooding. The venerable association found a new mission after the storm, when much of the area was in danger of demolition and rezoning as green space. Neighbors collaborated with researchers from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government and students from Bard College on a comprehensive development plan.

Read more about New Orleans here.

Fast Cities 2009 - Taipei

Taipei has strived to achieve "zero landfill, total recycling" by 2010, 30 years ahead of the UN's trash targets. It will probably fall short, but its policies are still exemplary.

Read more about Taipei here.

Fast Cities 2009 - Malmo

After recession nearly wiped out Malmö's industrial base in the 1980s, the city had a chance to start over. It created eco-friendly neighborhoods of transformed tenements and old shipyards. Much of Western Harbour now runs solely on renewable energy, including wind and solar, while organic waste from the area is turned into biogas.

Read more about Malmo here.

Monday, April 20, 2009

Fast Cities 2009 - Houston

A street, a few gray parking lots, and a little patch of unused green. Dreary. When the property in downtown Houston came up for sale, city leaders knew they could find a better use for it than yet another condo/office building or a parking garage. They proposed Discovery Green, a 12-acre, $122 million park in the heart of downtown that has reminded urban planners of the power and potential of green space.

Read more about Houston here.

Fast Cities 2009 - Cleveland

One of America's most blighted cities, hard hit by rustification and foreclosure, is also home to one of its loveliest urban initiatives, a plan to create acres of tree nurseries, oases of native plants, and community gardens with bees and chickens. Devised at Kent State University's Urban Design Collaborative, the strategy is part of Reimagining a More Sustainable Cleveland Initiative.


Read more about Cleveland here.

Fast Cities 2009 - Denver

The arts may often be associated with money and power, but the Mile-High City's Five by Five program opens the doors of Denver's cultural institutions to some of its youngest and poorest residents.

Read more about Denver here.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Studios in Old Town

$410 - $520

24/7 access. Month to month lease with a 6 month min. stay. All utilities included. Space is on the second floor above an art gallery/ frame shop.

More info here.

Fast Cities 2009 - Chicago

It seems almost too simple: one card that gives access to the trains, buses, and a local car-sharing program. The Smart Card is Chicago-based nonprofit I-Go Car Sharing's idea to extend public transportation to include public cars.

Read more about Chicago here.

Fast Cities 2009 - San Francisco

Many people joke about stashing their cash under the mattress, but what if that were really the only option? Bank on San Francisco, a public-private partnership formed by the city and several financial organizations, gives citizens access to bank accounts and financial education.

Read more about San Francisco here.

Saturday, April 18, 2009

New Art Studio - Baltimore

Affordable, newly renovated studio spaces - called The Visual Warehouse - will be available in the Station North Arts and Entertainment District of Baltimore, Md, starting in May of 2009.
More details here.

Fast Cities 2009 - Seattle - City of the Year

Every year FAST COMPANY magazine puts together a list of "fast cities". In the introduction they write:

There's nothing we need more right now than brilliant initiatives that can help our communities go greener, be safer, live smarter, and invest for the future. Here are a dozen cities that are hatching plans we love.


In a year like this, we need a city upon a hill. Seattle, Fast Company's City of the Year, not only sprawls across seven hills but also boasts the ingredients that we believe will bring our communities -- and country -- back to prosperity: smarts, foresight, social consciousness, creative ferment. This year, singular bright ideas have earned 12 other cities -- Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Houston, Malmö, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Taipei, Tucson, and Vancouver -- places on our honor roll. Their exemplary initiatives are improving neighborhoods, transforming lives, and helping build better, faster cities for the future.

Read more about Seattle here

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Gallery for Rent - 14th & RI Ave NW

Rare loft space with skylights plus mezzanine offices available for immediate rent - previously an art gallery with great lighting.

More info here.

Artist Studio - Georgetown

Shared studio loft-space available in great Georgetown building situated between the C&O Canal and Potomac River - $525/month.

Read more here.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

In Praise of Spikes - Richard Florida and Creative Cities

In the March, 2008 issue of Fast Company, Richard Florida provides an excerpt from his book, Who's Your City? How the Creative Economy Is Making Where You Live the Most Important Decision of Your Life
It's a mantra of the age of globalization that place doesn't matter. Technology has leveled the global playing field--the world is flat. "When the world is flat," says New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, "you can innovate without having to emigrate."

It's a compelling notion--but it's wrong. Today's global economy is spiky. What's more, the tallest spikes, the cities and regions that drive the world economy, are growing ever higher while the valleys, with little economic activity, recede still further.

Read the entire excerpt at FAST COMPANY.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Creative DC Action Agenda - Forum, April 2


About 200 people turned out for the discussion today. The Office of Planning anticipates finishing the Action Agenda over the next few months and releasing it sometime in the summer. The usual suspects were in attendance. Find out more info here.

And check out Amanda's more detailed review at her blog creativedc.org

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Baltimore - Proposed New Regulations for Clubs

From the Baltimore City Paper -
The misguided beast that is Baltimore's City Council Bill #08-0163, aka the Live Entertainment - Licensing and Regulation bill, is once again rearing its head. Last Wednesday, March 4, the council held a formal hearing on the proposal, which would eliminate live-entertainment zoning in favor of annual live-entertainment licensing. Over the next several weeks the city will be holding a series of "community work sessions" in advance of a May 6 final vote.

A link to the rest of the article here.

From Baltimore musician/noise artist John Berndt -
There is a "work session" tomorrow where the public can express its opinion. I *strongly* recommend that anyone concerned about the future of this city's cultural scene add to the strength of numbers and attend this meeting tomorrow:

Tuesday, March 31, 2009, 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Morgan State, Communications Center, Room 101, 5601 Perring Parkway

Friday, March 27, 2009

Lionell Thomas - now head of PG Arts Council

Lionell Thomas has resurfaced as the new leader of the Prince George's County Arts Council. For years Lionell was on the staff at the DC Arts and Humanities Commission, eventually rising to second in command.

Congratulations Lionell!

It also looks like the PG Arts Council has made some changes to the Board. I'm sure with Lionell at the helm, we can expect some good things in the near future.

More info about the PGAC and its board and staff can be found here.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Cultural Affairs - Philadelphia

A regular look at how different state and city governments promote the arts.

From the Philadelphia Office of Arts and Culture web site -
The Philadelphia Office of Arts and Culture is the City's designated Local Arts Agency and supports the interests and concerns of the City's cultural community and advocates on its behalf. Some of the programs currently coordinated by and associated with the Office of Arts and Culture are described below.

The Art Commission
Art in City Hall
Student Exhibition Program
Calendar of Events
Arts in Education
Percent for Art Program
Sculpture Conservation and Collection Management Program
Philadelphia Festival of the Arts, Inc./Marian Anderson Award
The Philadelphia Cultural Fund

More information here.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Creative Economy Forum

The Washington DC Economic Partnership (WDCEP) and the DC Office of Planning are preparing an Action Agenda for the District's creative economy. The Action Agenda focuses on the following creative industries: design, visual and performing arts, film, media and communications, museums and heritage, and culinary arts. At the forum, they will present the results of our data collection and analysis to date, their findings from interviews and focus group discussions, and challenges and opportunities. They will also explore a targeted set of strategies and actions for strengthening the District's creative economy.

The Forum is scheduled for April 2nd.

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Cultural Affairs - Minneapolis

A regular look at how different state and city governments promote the arts.

From the Minneapolis Cultural Affairs web site -
The Mission of Cultural Affairs is to encourage arts participation, arts support and arts making in the City of Minneapolis. The City of Minneapolis established Cultural Affairs in November 1999. In 2002, the Mayor and City Council moved Cultural Affairs to the Planning Division of CPED as a means to integrate arts programming into the City's overall goals and comprehensive plan.

Cultural Affairs staff work closely with the Minneapolis Arts Commission and share their goal of developing a strong and vital arts community throughout Minneapolis. This year, the Arts Commission and Cultural Affairs are launching a comprehensive cultural planning process that will result in the City of Minneapolis Plan for Arts and Culture a ten-year strategic plan that defines the role of the City of Minneapolis in supporting the arts and culture.

More information here.

Friday, March 13, 2009

DC Shared Space Initiative

The DC Shared Space Initiative, a donor-advised fund of The Community Foundation, is a joint project of Tides Shared Spaces, GreenSpaces Development, and a group of District-area philanthropist/activists. The Initiative is working to create high-quality workplaces in which diverse local, regional, and national nonprofits can collaboratively engage in their daily work.

The DC Shared Space Initiative is designed to help nonprofits in several ways:

-- controlling office/facility costs
-- creating long-term stability and efficiency
-- sharing space with other organizations that share your mission and/or values

More info here.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Cultural Affairs - New York

A regular look at how different state and city governments promote the arts.

From the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs web site -
The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) is dedicated to supporting and strengthening New York City's vibrant cultural life. Among our primary missions is to ensure adequate public funding for non-profit cultural organizations, both large and small, throughout the five boroughs.

DCLA also works to promote and advocate for quality arts programming and to articulate the contribution made by the cultural community to the City's economic vitality. The Department represents and serves non-profit cultural organizations involved in the visual, literary and performing arts; public-oriented science and humanities institutions including zoos, botanical gardens and historic and preservation societies; and creative artists at all skill levels who live and work within the City's five boroughs.

More info here.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Cultural Affairs - Los Angeles

A regular look at how different state and city governments promote the arts.

From the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs web site -
The goal of the Department of Cultural Affairs is to enhance the quality of life for Los Angeles' 4 million residents and 25 million annual visitors.

We accomplish this goal by generating and supporting high quality arts and cultural experiences. We ensure access to those experiences through grant making, marketing, development, communication, and building relationships with our community partners. Our challenge is to be a catalyst for the delivery of art, culture, and heritage to every neighborhood in the City of Los Angeles.

More info here.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Baltimore - Skylofts

Sky-Lofts is an artist community located in the Canton neighborhood. They have lofts available ranging from 300 SF to 3,600 SF. The building includes a 2,000 SF gallery. For more info and lots of pictures, check out their web site - skylofts.net

Monday, March 9, 2009

Hidden Petworth space - $2,000/month

The folks behind N12 Development have a recently renovated basement space available for rent - near the corner of Georgia and Upshur. Its 1,500 SF with alley access and lots of parking. Was recently used as office space.

More details here.

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Cultural Affairs - San Francisco

A regular look at how different state and city governments promote the arts.

From the San Francisco Arts Commission's web site -
The San Francisco Arts Commission is the City agency that champions the arts in San Francisco. We believe that a creative cultural environment is essential to the City’s well-being. Our programs integrate the arts into all aspects of City life. The Commission was established by charter in 1932.

More info here.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Studio Space - Brentwood Art Center

The Brentwood Arts Center (BAC) is a new visual arts center located at 3901 Rhode Island Ave., Brentwood, MD. MNCPPC will have a 2500s/f gallery space and a 900sf classroom on the first floor. The remaining 1700sf of space on the first floor is available studio space. The second floor will have 5500sf of studio space for rent with a 450sf gallery that will be managed by the Gateway CDC.

Their Vision -
A vibrant arts center that not only provides visual artists with a functional and safe work space, but an Arts Center that encourages programming that engages the neighboring community and the other artists in the Gateway Arts District.

Studio rents are starting at $13s/f, plus utilities. For more information or to make an appointment to see the studios call John Paradiso at 301-864-3860 ext.3.
More info here.

Cultural Affairs - Chicago

A regular look at how different state and city governments promote the arts.

From the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs web site -
Department of Cultural Affairs Overview

The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs was established as a municipal department in 1984 to promote the arts, make them accessible to the widest possible audience, and market the city’s abundant and diverse cultural resources and attractions to a worldwide audience. Under the leadership of Commissioner Lois Weisberg since 1989, the department is now widely regarded as a national model for effective municipal support of the arts and culture.

By offering hundreds of high quality free exhibitions, performances and programs each year at the Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park and other venues throughout the city, DCA promotes the arts and makes them accessible to a remarkably wide and diverse audience. DCA visual and performing arts programs bring respected national and international artists to Chicago, presenting artistic and cultural experiences and ideas from around the world. In addition to the visual and performing arts, DCA offers culinary programs and, in 2006, added fashion events to its repertoire to reflect Chicago’s growing role in the fashion world.

The department supports artists, cultural institutions and community organizations through grants, workshops, the Chicago Artists’ Resource (CAR) website and by creating myriad opportunities to showcase their work. DCA markets Chicago as a destination for culture and entertainment through the Office of Tourism; develops global partnerships and encourages cross-cultural understanding through the Chicago Sister Cities International Program; and affirms the value of the arts to the social and economic fabric of the city.

The department consists of several divisions and venues, each charged with overseeing specific functions and programs that further the department’s mission.

More information here

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Cultural Affairs - Washington

A regular look at how different state and city governments promote the arts.

From the Washington, DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities web site -
Since 1968, the District of Columbia Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH) has developed and promoted local artists, organizations and activities.

Our Mission at the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities is to provide grants, programs and educational activities that encourage diverse artistic expressions and learning opportunities, so that all District of Columbia residents and visitors can experience the rich culture of our city.

DCCAH is governed by volunteers who are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council.

DCCAH provides financial support and conducts programming in three primary areas:

DC Creates Public Art - The purpose of the DC Creates Public Art Program is to provide high quality art installations and administrative support services for the public so they can benefit from an enhanced visual environment.

Arts Learning and Outreach - The purpose of the Arts Learning and Outreach Program is to provide grants, educational activities and outreach services for youth, young adults and the general public so they can gain a deeper appreciation for the arts and enhance the overall quality of their lives.

Arts Building Communities (Grants and Programs) - The purpose of the Arts Building Communities program is to provide grants, performances, exhibitions and other services to individual artists, arts organizations and neighborhood/community groups so they can express, experience and have access to the rich cultural diversity of the District.

More info here.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Baltimore - Event and Studio Space

Looking for an event space or daily studio space in Baltimore? Check out The Library in Federal Hill. Their gallery covers 1,500 SF and has 25' ceilings. Only $125 for a half day or $200 for a full day.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Small Gallery for Rent on 7th St.

Another cool space, part of Touchstone Gallery at 406 7th. Check the Craigslist ad here. Only $1,000/month!

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Affordable Warehouse space - near RI Ave. Metro

Kings Ct. Management is listing a 4,000 SF space at 632 W St. NE - backing up to the train tracks, about three blocks from the Metro station. No windows, so it wouldn't work for an artist - but it could be used for a shop or for rehearsal space. Rent is $10/foot - or about $3,333/month plus utilities. For more info, send an email to mberman@his.com.

Friday, February 27, 2009

Gallery for Rent in Dupont Circle

Check out this Craigslist ad for an affordable gallery in Dupont Circle - only $1,350/month!

gallery for rent

NoMa Issues Call to Artists

The NoMa BID has issued a request for qualifications for an individual artist or design team to design, fabricate, and install permanent artwork in the public realm space in front of the of the Capitol Plaza building at 1200 First Street, NE (1st and M, NE) in Washington, D.C. The primary objective of this new initiative, NoMa Artscapes: Transforming Public Space, is to beautify and enhance the vibrancy of the streetscape, while creating a landmark that contributes to the sense of place. More info here - INFO

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

H STREET SHUTTLE

Have you tried the new H Street Shuttle, operated by U Street Parking and Transportation?

The Shuttle is FREE to all riders but is aimed at patrons from different areas of the city and the surrounding regions heading to H Street NE to enjoy arts, nightlife and retail destinations.

Riders should look for passenger vans with the Green and White H ST NE logo an all sides. The Shuttle will run 7 evenings a week from 5 pm until the Metro closes; 12 am Sunday through Thursday and 3 am Friday and Saturday.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Downtown Studio for sublease

Are you looking for a great studio downtown?

This space is located in a new building at 931 F St, NW, a half block away from the National Portrait Gallery and Gallery Place Metro. The space is 935 SF, and the rent is $2,000 per month, including utilities. (At present the space looks more like a gallery, rather than a messy studio, but could certainly be used for the latter).

If you'd like to find out more info, contact Richard Dana at rdana@starpower.net.

(The space could also be used as an office for an arts organization, architect, etc.)

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Studio space in Kensington


O’Neill Studios, a boutique decorative painting company, has some extra studio space available in Kensington and they are looking for a working artist to join them.

200 SF for $200/month. Access to water, trash removal, and a friendly environment. For more info contact Paula Greenberg at 202-615-1888.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

For Rent - Great storefront in Columbia Heights

Small storefront on 11th Street near Park Rd. next to Columbia Heights Coffee - $950.

600 sq. ft. vanilla shell, ready for tenant to build out at tenant expense. Raw space requiring some work depending on intended use. Perfect for small gallery or other creative use.

Questions or more info? write n12dc@earthlink.net

Sunday, February 8, 2009

New Gallery and Studio space in Hyattsville

artdc.org is starting a gallery and studio space in Hyattsville MD. They are taking over the curatorial responsibilities of the Lustine Gallery in the Hyattsville Arts District.

artdc in Hyattsville will be a working gallery where art is presented in a professional manner while artists create art in the same space.

Some details:

* Developers have created a community center in the rehabilitated Lustine Auto Show Room which includes a 500 SF gallery with a 400 SF studio space.

* There will be 20 studio resident artists to start, with the possibility to expand in the future. Studio members will create art in the space and exhibit their work salon style in the back room.

* Resident artists will pay an annual non-refundable initiation fee of $250.00US, and an affordable monthly fee of $45.

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Cool space on Florida Ave NE

Last year Conner Contemporary Art renovated a building at 1358-60 Florida Ave., NE, right around the corner from the H Street Playhouse. This leading DC gallery is using the first floor and is looking for a simpatico tenant for the second floor space - about 4,300 SF, great light, tall ceilings, concrete structure - asking $18/foot. It includes a ramp to the alley!!! (At one time this 2nd floor space was used to paint cars at Singletary's Auto Body Repairs.)
For more information, contact gallery owner Leigh Conner at info (at) CONNERCONTEMPORARY.com.

Friday, February 6, 2009

Gallery/Studio space available at 14th and T



The folks behind LISTOPAD, a style and culture emporium, are looking for a gallery or artists to join them at 14th and T NW. The third floor space (above) is located in the same building as Trina's Hair Gallery and SOM Records. Rent is $1400/month for the third floor - 900 SF. (Listopad will be occupying the second floor.) The third floor is perfect for a studio or small gallery - it is a swell, open space with great light and has a bathroom with shower. It needs some work but not too much.

Here is a link to more INFO, including a way to contact LISTOPAD.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Kennedy Center to Help Arts Programs in Economic Trouble

From the Washington Post -

The next act in Michael M. Kaiser's quest to make all arts organizations smart and healthy is about to begin.

After a string of successes rescuing arts groups from near-death, Kaiser is now enlisting Kennedy Center managers to help nonprofit arts organizations that are reeling from the recession.

"Arts in Crisis: A Kennedy Center Initiative" was announced this morning. Essentially, the program is a high-tech support service through which arts administrators can talk to the center's personnel about shrinking income, budget-conscious audiences and other difficulties in keeping the doors open.

Full article HERE.

N. Capitol St. Fire House for Sale


The Fire House at 1626 North Capitol St. NW is for sale - listed at $1.5M.

Recent plans included a restaurant by the folks behind St. Ex and a sound stage for XM radio. And then another restaurant operator from Ohio was scheduled to come in to run the restaurant.

It would make a great art space. I toured the building back in 2007 and it needed a lot of work, but it has good bones and will make for a cool finished space.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Artist Studios - 57 N St. NW has an opening

Artist Studio for Rent, 3 blocks from NY/Florida Ave Metro

400 sq ft artist studio for rent in NW, just 3 blocks from the NY/Florida Avenue Metro stop. This space includes a reception area and office with a large walk in closet. There is a hallway bathroom that is shared with other tenants on the floor (3 people).

It is a bare bones studio on the top floor of a warehouse. There are concrete floors, brick walls and plenty of windows. And it is very spacious. It also looks out over the skyline of North Capitol Street, with easy access to the roof, and a beautiful view.

The price is $500 and includes all utilities.

For more info, give them a call at 202-309-3695

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

RE-THINKING RHODE ISLAND AVENUE NE

MEETING OF COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNERS AND POTENTIAL DEVELOPERS

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2009
7:00 to 9:00 P.M.
Washington Center for Aging Services
2601 18th Street NE

RE-THINKING RHODE ISLAND AVENUE NE
SUB-AREA PRELIMINARY CONCEPTS

The four sets of sub-area concepts below represent preliminary thoughts of the project team based on consultation with the District, community, commercial property owners and invited developers. They are intended to spur responses about re-development and to highlight locations with the most significant amount of potential for change which benefits the stability of the corridor.

SUB-AREA 1 CONCEPT:
4th TO 12th STREETS NE

This illustration of Sub-Area 1 shows significant opportunities which would transform this section into "Downtown Ward 5"- similar to what has happened in Columbia Heights and what is planned in Wards 7 and 8. This sub-area would be a "town center" with a significant and vibrant mixture of high-quality national and local retail, offices, and mixed-income residential development at densities which take full advantage of the immediate proximity to Metro. Proposed development would complement the Rhode Island Station project planned to the east of the metro station. Residents here will likely prefer easy access and to live "in the mix" while being in a non-central business district, neighborhood setting.

SUB-AREA 2 CONCEPT:
12th TO 18th STREETS NE

This illustration of Sub-Area 2 shows opportunities to re-envision this section as "Montana-Franklin Neighborhood Center". This sub-area would include a mix of competitive local retailers with some regional and national chains and mixed-income residential development at medium densities in new buildings that are 4 to 7 stories in height-the latter, depending on location and approvals through a planned unit development (PUD) process. Proposed development would complement the Brookland Square project planned at the northeast corner of 13th Street and Rhode Island Avenue. Residents here would seek proximity and affordability, but prefer to be in a much more neighborhood oriented district.

SUB-AREA 3 CONCEPT:
18th STREET TO SOUTH DAKOTA AVENUE NE

This illustration of Sub-Area 3 shows development opportunities to convert this section into "Langdon Park". This sub-area would include a series of fashionable loft-like residences in new buildings that are 4 to 6 stories in height near adaptively, rehabilitated existing structures (20th to 24th Streets) which welcome new eclectic and neighborhood serving retail uses, galleries and services. Proposed development would take advantage of immediate proximity to the District's Langdon Park and its outdoor swimming pool, gymnasium, athletic fields and courts, among other amenities. The US National Arboretum is only minutes away as well. Residents here would be motivated professionals with active, athletic lifestyles and a penchant for meeting friends or working out of quirky coffee shops and diners.


SUB-AREA 4 CONCEPT:
SOUTH DAKOTA AVENUE TO EASTERN AVENUE NE

This illustration of Sub-Area 4 shows opportunities to re-imagine this section as "The Portal." This sub-area would include new housing and retail which may be attractive to artists who prefer a District address over ... another. New construction will be 4 to 6 stories in height. Proposed development might seek to complement the Mount Rainier Arts District just across Eastern Avenue .... or it may take on its own distinctive "gateway" appearance to celebrate this prominent easterly entrance into the Nation's Capitol. There will be a unique mix of residents.

Friday, January 9, 2009

Schools - Meeting Summary

Over 100 people packed the Community Room at the Reeves Center this afternoon to listen to a brief presentation about the disposition of closed DC schools. Most in the crowd were connected to the Real Estate community - Developers, Architects, etc. There were a few arts-related individuals.

Tours of the schools will happen during the week of Jan 26. Submissions are due at the end of February.

This round seems to be geared toward established Developers. Proposals require significant experience with similar projects and the proof of access to financing.

I will post the Site Visit schedule when it is announced.

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Reminder - Pre-Offer Conference on Schools is Tomorrow, Jan 9

A reminder that the Pre-Offer Conference for the current round of school disposition will be held at the Reeves Center tomorrow at 1pm.