Spaceworks Tacoma accepting applications now through Jan. 17

Artists, artist groups and creative entrepreneurs can now apply for an opportunity to participate in Spaceworks Tacoma: Round 3. Spaceworks Tacoma is a joint initiative of the City of Tacoma, Shunpike, and the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce to activate empty spaces with creative use.

“After the initial pilot, Spaceworks Tacoma has emerged as a successful program that turns a typically detrimental thing – vacant storefronts – into something we can use for positive change in Tacoma,” said City of Tacoma Arts Administrator Amy McBride. “Since July 2010, Spaceworks Tacoma has placed 34 artists or artist teams in 15 spaces around downtown Tacoma.”

There are currently three opportunities available in Spaceworks Tacoma: Round 3, and those selected will receive temporary no-cost or low-cost space, exposure and business consultation in exchange for creatively activating vacant spaces in downtown Tacoma beginning mid-March.

• Artscapes: Those selected for this opportunity would temporarily place visual art installations in interior window storefronts March 15 - July 1, 2011.

• Creative Enterprise: This opportunity provides designers, crafters, consultants and other entrepreneurs with the chance to test new products and services in a physical space on a three- or six-month basis.

• Artist Residency: This opportunity offers dedicated practicing artists the chance to pursue projects and develop work in any artistic discipline for three months, with the opportunity to extend to six months.
Applications for Spaceworks Tacoma: Round 3 will be accepted until Jan. 17, 2011. Visit http://www.spaceworkstacoma.wordpress.com/apply for full details and an application.

Locations and support for Spaceworks Tacoma are provided by property owners Eric Cederstrand, Ted Johnson, Herb Simon, Steve Shaub, George Howe, Al Howe and Jeff Wohler, as well as property managers Shannon Tiegs of Roberson Building Company, Sally England of Colliers International and Michael Norman of Neil Walter. Community partners include Tacoma Contemporary, Broadway Center for the Performing Arts and King’s Books.