It’s been said that change is the only constant. This seems to have been especially true at SPACES recently. Just months after selecting their new Executive Director, Christina Vassallo, the nonprofit arts organization is poised to begin a new chapter in their legacy.
After an extensive search throughout Greater Cleveland, SPACES announced earlier this week that they have settled on a future location in Hingetown – located between Gordon Square and Ohio City. This small but vibrant neighborhood already houses the Transformer Station, Intermuseum Conservatory Association, Rising Star Coffee, the recently-opened Beet Jar and much more.
The future location is located on W.29th – between Detroit and Church. The new space would be roughly the same size as their current location. Many of the building’s unique characteristics will be kept intact during the upcoming renovation – orchestrated by talented, local architect John Williams (who recently helped “transform” the neighboring Transformer Station).
The 50+ year old building features 20 foot walls, multiple industrial cranes hanging from the ceiling and an entire wall of windows featuring a random patchwork of colored glass panes. All of these features will be maintained through the renovation.
Despite receiving a substantial discount from Hingetown developer Michael Chesler, SPACES recently announced a $3 million fundraising effort. The nonprofit organization needs to raise about $1.5 million by October in order to officially sign the lease. They’ve raised approximately $500,000 to date, and are optimistic about raising the remaining million dollars.
For now, there’s still plenty of great art coming through their current space. Stop by soon to support one Cleveland’s oldest nonprofit galleries as they close one chapter and prepare to begin another.