Spaceworks Tacoma is seeking artists, artist groups, non-profit organizations and creative entrepreneurs to energize empty spaces in Tacoma. Participants of Spaceworks Tacoma are provided space, exposure, and consultation in exchange for creatively activating vacant spaces. The goal is to transform empty storefronts with creative energy and artistic enterprise, making Tacoma a stronger, more active city.
Spaceworks Tacoma is seeking applications for all three Spaceworks Tacoma tracks:
Artscapes temporarily places 2-dimensional, 3-dimensional or new media art installations in interior window storefronts as well as outdoor spaces. The program offers an artist stipend of up to $500 to support the creation of new work and site-specific projects, or the installation of existing work. The Woolworth Windows are part of the Artscapes track with exhibition dates of Sept. 1 – Dec. 19, 2013. Other spaces may have different dates.
Special Projects offers dedicated practicing artists the chance to pursue projects and develop work in any discipline for up to six months. Space is provided dependent on space availability and project needs for up to six months. Residencies are not open to the public, except for special events or open houses.
Creative Enterprise provides artists, designers, crafters, consultants, organizations, community groups and other creative entrepreneurs the chance to test new products and services in a no- or low-cost space for up to six months. But it’s not just about space, this track provides relevant and meaningful professional development and peer-to-peer support for participants to systematically grow Tacoma’s creative class. These enterprises will generate destination quality activity that will engage and transform our community. All Creative Enterprises are expected to hold a set of regular weekly hours open to the public, including participation in occasional Spaceworks Tacoma events.
“Providing space to artists and entrepreneurs is one way we can support and help grow innovation in this city. In return for rent-free space, we’re looking for projects that will go above and beyond and really become part of the social and economic fabric of Tacoma,” said City of Tacoma Arts Administrator Amy McBride.
All applicants will be selected based on the following criteria:
- Quality of work as exhibited in the work sample
- Feasibility and ability to execute proposal
- Ability of the project to engage the community including passers-by
- Ingenuity and strength of concept/proposal
- Benefit to the community and appropriateness for the public realm
The review process is competitive and the review panel will be looking for a diversity of offerings. Individual artists, artist teams, community groups, non-profit organizations or creative businesses may apply. Eligible artists interested in Spaceworks Tacoma must complete the online application for the specific track they wish to apply for. Part of the online application involves submitting the following items: a narrative proposal, work samples with descriptions, a resume, and a budget.
Spaceworks Tacoma works to identify interior spaces in downtown Tacoma as locations for these site-specific installations, residencies, and creative use. Spaces will vary in size and amenities; selected artists will be paired with an appropriate space for their proposal. Spaceworks Tacoma reserves the right to pair selected artists with spaces at its discretion.
