Author: Arts Van Aken

Arts Van Aken (AVA) the arts-based placemaking initiative of Shaker Heights Development Corporation, designed to bring quality arts and culture programming to the Van Aken District. AVA is the result of a multi-year research and planning effort through which SHDC, the City of Shaker Heights, RMS, as well engaged citizens and community stakeholders, collaboratively developed a vision for programming that will reflect and celebrate the diversity of Shaker Heights and support our shared commitment to making the Van Aken District a central gathering place for the entire community. AVA's aim is to create unique experiences that bring our diverse public into dialog and interaction with one another, while also servicing as a resource and facilitator for community-led arts-based projects. By building partnerships with established arts organizations throughout Greater Cleveland, AVA will also create new opportunities to connect and engage with the audiences of Shaker Heights and our surrounding communities. AVA’s initial programming includes Winteractive, our signature outdoor interactive art festival; summer outdoor performances and family-centric workshops; and, a variety of other projects and small-scale events throughout the year.