Art Corridors
 

Hi Everyone,

Next Wed. here in Cleveland there will be an "Art Summit" discussing how the business community can work in tandem with the arts community to improve our city. We do not have an arts council here, or any time of real, cohesive support for the arts.

I am going to the event, in the hopes of describing what other cities have in the way of art communities, sections, corridors, however one would term a place where people can view art in convenient areas (preferably within the city limits). We have a few places established, but I think they are hard for visitors to find, and not especially convenient parking wise, etc.

Could you describe what your cities are like art-wise? Are there events that highlight artists? Any info you can give me would help tremendously. Thanks!

In Seattle all the downtown galleries have their monthly "openings" scheduled for the first Thursday of each month. They publlish a map of the so-called "First Thursday" gallery walk locations, the featured artists and times. This has been going on at least the 12 years I've lived here and is very popular.

Is that the kind of thing you were thinking of?

Thanks Michelle!

Yes, your info helps. Are the galleries/studios indeed within walking distance, or close proximity to each other? That's my point over here. I think our galleries are too scattered, and there are very few downtown. I can't imagine how visitors would find any art here!

Hi Stanka,

There are lots of galleries in downtown Seattle but they're not clustered together as much as they used to be. Ten years ago there was a whole block that was pretty much all galleries on both sides that was limited to pedestrian traffic. One place on the corner had an outdoor eating/drinking spot. It was really fun to go to on a summer evening -- like a big party. But most of the galleries have moved on to other spaces for some reason.

There are still dozens of galleries at various places in the downtown area though. There's a monthly free guidebook that's put out on display at the galleries and other downtown businesses with a gallery map and information on the artists who are showing where that month. The galleries get LOTS of people coming to visit on that opening night.

Hope that helps!

Thanks Michelle, exactly what I was looking for.