The visual artist discusses 404 West Studio & Gallery, a new creative venture with fellow artist Katina Pastis Radwanski. A grand opening celebration for 404 West, which is inside the ArtCraft Building in Cleveland, will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 13, a time that coincides with the Campus District’s “Avenue of the Arts” event for the Superior Arts District.
What led the two of you to open up this space?
Katina and I met a year-and-a-half ago and became fast friends. We shared a common background as art organizers and we both had a passion to become more involved in the local art scene. We chose a 1,500-square-foot studio space with a downtown view that provided us with a small gallery area for pop-up exhibitions as well as room for accompanying programs and workshops.
What can visitors to the gallery expect in terms of exhibitions?
404 West provides an innovative outlet for project-based exhibitions, pop-up shows from independent artists and curated invitationals in an attempt to expand the art audience.
What can they expect in terms of workshops and other programming?
Currently, 404 West is offering painting classes and art business workshops. However, our intention is to also host other industries within our space in order to expose more people to the arts. As an example, plans for a vegan pop-up are in the works.
Your space is in the ArtCraft Building, which is home to several artists. What makes that building unique, and why did you decide to open there?
The ArtCraft Building started out as a garment factory. It has been home to many artists’ studios for more than 30 years and is known for its annual holiday show that takes place the first weekend in December. The building owners take good care of their artists by providing ample parking and full-time elevator operators. It is part of a larger art community called The Superior Arts District.
Your opening reception coincides with the Campus District’s “Avenue of the Arts” celebration featuring the Superior Arts District. What else will be happening in the neighborhood that night for visitors to enjoy?
Avenue of the Arts is a multimedia event featuring the studios of artists along Superior Avenue, music, fashion shows and food. The ArtCraft Building will have open studios on both its east and west sides. Next door to 404 West (in 403) will be a special pop-up exhibition invitational featuring artists from the entire district. The Paulo Costa Trio, a Brazilian band, will be playing here as well.
Lead image: Courtesy of 404 West.
