ArtSpace is one of the most unusual phenomena in the cultural life of the country. The management of the Crestwood Mall, together with the Regional Arts Commission, became the authors of the project, which is conceived as an open space for artists of all stripes. For an extremely low fee, any person of culture gets a place for performances, exhibitions, sales of their works, as well as training.
This unusual decision was a response of the management of the shopping center to the worsening crisis. This kind of creativity has enabled more than a hundred organizations and individual artists to transform an empty shopping arcade into a true center of art. In gratitude for the help, ArtSpace members, by their very presence, attract thousands of new customers to the remaining stores of the shopping center.
With the start of the pandemic, the situation has changed dramatically. Many artists began partnering with large companies to keep their income. This was exceptionally accurate for the entertainment industry. For example, Gamdom Casino regularly holds contests for young artists whose work is then used in interior design.
More About ArtSpace
We create comfortable and accessible spaces for creative groups and individual artists. Our mission is to be the leading art-friendly business organization in the country.
ArtSpace Evolution
ArtSpace dates back to 1979. At that time, the main function of the organization was the legal defense of artists’ space requirements. It took almost 10 years to work in this format.
A new stage of development began in the late 80s. This time can be called a turning point for both the company and the entire industry. ArtSpace has moved from protecting rights to active development and construction in the field of accessible art-free space. Since then, the list of responsibilities of the company has been supplemented with new functions that put it in a leading position in its field.
Since the 90s, the company has taken on large projects such as the Northern Warehouse Artists’ Cooperative (1990), Frogtown Family Lofts (1992), and Tilsner Artists’ Cooperative (1993) in Sant Paulo. After achieving the necessary experience, ArtSpace was no longer working on residential buildings, an example of which can be the Traffic Zone Center in Minneapolis.
Today, ArtSpace operates in more than 20 states and employs about 2,000 people in millions of square feet of usable space. The organization has evolved from a small local project to a leading company with Property Development, Asset Management, and Consulting Services.
FAQ About ArtSpace
What are the requirements for becoming a member of RAC?
There is an NSR system. Each person of culture, who has his vision, can become a person of the organization.
How does the Regional Art Commission take part in this initiative?
RAC and Crestwood Court formed a good tandem in which each was assigned specific tasks. The administration of the shopping center is uniquely involved in the administrative part of the project, distributing suitable places, signing lease agreements, and the like. RAC, in turn, informs the entire cultural community about the work of ArtSpace and helps each tenant to overcome all legal difficulties.
How to find Crestwood Court?
Watson and Sappington, just east of I-44, in the city of Crestwood. Check Google maps.
Who is this offer for?
We invite all independent artists and art associations who are interested in our activities to participate.
What actions are allowed in the spaces?
Everything that can be connected with your creative activity. Some of our spaces are already used as galleries, retail stores, warehouses, performance, or meeting places.
Are there any requirements for the display window?
After signing the rental agreement, it is your responsibility to arrange frontal windows that will represent your organization and will be visually pleasing to your customers.
What is the area of the spaces?
Most of the premises are unique in their layout and, accordingly, have a different area. The smallest sizes start at 1,200 square feet, but the average floor space reaches 5,000 square feet.
What is the rental cost?
The exact price can be found out only after choosing the premises, as it varies from the area and location of the site.
Are there any additional costs?
The list of costs includes payment for electricity and telecommunications, painting and decoration, and renovation of the premises.
Which parts of the mall are opened for spaces?
Some of the spaces are on the west side of the mall, right next to the escalators that lead to the food court and a couple of pavilions in the middle of the hall. However, most of the space has been set aside on the east side of the former Dillard’s site, adjacent to the Chevy’s Restaurant, and a couple of shops still open.
Can we do indoor renovations?
You have the right to make any changes to the design or layout of the premises. But you should remember that the administration of Crestwood Mall must approve any changes before you proceed with the renovation.
What are the working hours of the spaces?
You will have access to the premises 24 hours a day. You can use the private entrance to the store, or ask for the passage of the security of the shopping center.
Can we team up with other teams?
Of course, you can always liaise with other members for better results.
Is there a need to sign a lease agreement?
Yes, it is mandatory to sign a one-year lease. The contract always stipulates the possibility of an extension for a second year, however, shorter lease terms are not possible.
What do we need to do before signing a lease?
RAC will assist you with obtaining all the necessary documents, which include an employment permit and a business license. The total cost of the documents will be about $ 200. It should also be remembered that the management of Crestwood Mall works according to the Liability Insurance system, which greatly simplifies your work and reduces costs.
What is the start date of the offer?
Immediately after applying.
How long is the lease agreement?
Every two years, the shopping center undergoes a complete renovation, in this regard, the duration of the contract is limited to a similar period.
How can we make an application?
All you need to do is fill out the application, save it to your computer’s memory and then attach it to email. E-mail address: Leisa.Son@am.jll.com. You can also send the application to Leisa Son, Jones Lang LaSalle, 109 Crestwood Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63126.