On May 3rd, the ArtSpace Hastings Riverlofts threw open their doors and their collective arms and welcomed the community into the art filled spaces and even into the very living spaces of the 37 tenants that dwell, work and create in this glorious building. From music on the lawn to bridge stenciled totes and fiber weaving demonstrations, there was a steady stream of curious visitors that peered into every nook and cranny of the 3 story dwelling that has been a major accomplishment in renovation along the river. The Hastings Prescott Area Arts Council was a leading force in encouraging ArtSpace to develop the former tannery site, and thanks to several grants addressing brownfield remediation and the support through economic incentives by the city, and the county, the dream is now a reality, made possible by so many. Including HPAAC President Dick Graham who thanks those involved for making the ocassion possible.
He also shared his belief that Hastings is beginning a new and exciting chapter
Retail and display space share portions of the first floor with common areas leading to a spacious performance area on the eastern lawn. A formal presentation was made by key players, but from the looks of the gracious hosts, it was really more like a giant block party with a chance to showcase a lifestyle that many aspire to. In the third floor studio of a young digital artist, the conversation was intense admiring the art created by new technology in the light of floor to ceiling windows that overlook the powerful river. Power has certainly been tapped, that of building upon the momentum of a thriving arts communities with new faces, new ideas and new energies as well.
