By Deseray McKinzy
The Arts and Science Center (ASC) for Southeast Arkansas added two projects to its campus, the ARTSpace on Main and ARTworks with renovations nearing completion. Win Trafford the Director of Business Development and Client Relations with East Harding Construction, Martin Carty Facilities Manager of the ASC, and Rachel Miller the Executive Director of the ASC all worked together to make these projects happen.
The purpose of ArtSpace and Artworks is to be part of the revitalization of downtown and serve as an entry point for planned developments of the arts while also serving as an entertainment corridor. The Artworks building also includes apartment space for a working artist residency program that’s for visiting artists and/or those that may stay long-term.
The projects are a part of the historic building that has been built since the 1920s which will now feature space for community events, a black box theater, studios, artist live/work apartments, courtyard, a gallery, plus more. Both projects have been at work since 2019 due to generous donations including a $2.5 million grant from the Windgate Foundation in 2018. Both venues are set to finish up by this summer with programs, events, and gallery showings available for the public.
