Artists of the ArtCraft

 

This summer sixteen artists of the ArtCraft Building and the Heller Building are hosting PopUp at the ArtCraft, 2530 Superior Avenue, Gallery 403. The festivities will take place on three Fridays from 5:00 to 9:00pm: August 3, August 24, and September 28. The exhibit is free, with parking behind the building. There is also elevator access to Gallery 403 on the fourth floor. This exhibit will coincide with the FRONT International Triennial exhibitions taking place from July through September throughout Cleveland. Creatively inspired artwork will be featured with works in many mediums, including painting, photography, mixed media, sculpture, ceramics and printmaking. Food trucks, music, raffles, and interactive art will add to the visual excitement and unique experience of the Superior Arts District on “the Avenue of the Arts.” Tower Press and Lake Affect Studios are also participating with an exhibit in Wooltex Gallery and Garden Groove music and art series at Lake Affect Studios.

Artists participating in PopUp at the ArtCraft are: Paulette Archer, Ruth Bercaw, Kim Bissett, John W. Carlson, Bonnie Dolin, James Douglas, Marilyn Farinacci, Wally Kaplan, Baila Litton, Gloria Plevin, Claire Raack, Katina Pastis Radwanski, Jesse Rhinehart, Rita Schuenemann, Andrzej Siwkiewicz, and Ala Siwkiewicz.

The historic ArtCraft Building, located in the Superior Arts District, is home to numerous artists’ studios, photographers, web designers, architects, filmmakers, and small businesses such as Pulsar Paper and Fount leather. All greatly appreciate the architecture of the building with its huge windows, tall ceilings, wonderful views of Lake Erie and memorable sunsets. The ArtCraft Building is unique as it has staff-operated elevators that are reminders of the past. The artists create a vibrant, exciting cultural arts environment and draw people from all walks of life to the area.

Once part of Cleveland’s bustling garment industry the building has a rich history. The ArtCraft Building was the site of manufacturing of fabric, belts and clothing until the garment industry declined and many buildings fell vacant and into disrepair, with some repurposed for other commercial uses. The area was rezoned by the Cleveland Planning Commission with the help of then-Councilman Joe Cimperman as Cleveland’s first live-work district. This created a vibrant area for working artists and professionals.

Many artists in the building take part in Sparx in the City, open studio days, and the ArtCraft Holiday Show.