SPAACES launched its Artist Studio Program to support working artists in Sarasota by providing access to affordable creative space in a city where studio rentals are increasingly hard to find. The program offers a range of private and semi-private studios—from 100 to 300 square feet—located at 2051 Princeton Street. All studios are accessible to artists 24/7 and come with a detailed lease and guidelines to ensure a respectful, focused working environment. The studios are intended for consistent use—artists must be present a minimum of 15–20 hours per week. Studios are not for display; they are active workspaces that reflect the process and progress of each artist’s practice.
SPAACES values not only artistic production but also active participation in a supportive and engaged creative community. Studio artists are expected to commit to 15–20 hours of weekly studio use, maintain a strong and evolving body of work, and demonstrate technical and conceptual skill through experience and portfolio. Artists should be able to clearly express original ideas through their chosen medium and show a willingness to contribute to public programming, open studios, exhibitions, and other community events. In return, SPAACES provides opportunities for visibility and professional growth through regular tours and promotion to curators, collectors, and designers.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and should be submitted in a single email to marianne@spaaces.art. Required materials include a completed artist application (provided separately), 15 images of recent work with titles, dates, and the artist’s name, an artist statement and bio, and a current resume or CV. The program is open to artists of all disciplines who demonstrate a consistent body of original work, technical and conceptual strength, and a willingness to engage in a collaborative studio environment. Artists of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to apply. While not limited to early-career artists, the program is ideal for those who would benefit from affordable studio space, community, and increased visibility within Sarasota’s contemporary art scene.
Rental fees are based on a sliding scale determined by annual income. A 20% utilities fee and 2% sales tax are added to the monthly rent.
“SPAACES has given me an opportunity I never imagined possible. With affordable studio space, genuine support, and a strong commitment to connecting artists with the community, I’ve been able to grow my career in ways I never thought I could.”
— Current SPAACES Studio Artist
SPAACES artists approach their studio space as a collaborative environment. SPAACES artists are happy to take responsibility for the upkeep of their space and are active participants in maintenance. The artists understand it is a warehouse building that can sometimes be perceived as “rough.” SPAACES is not a residential living space and should be thought of as a working environment. SPAACES artists may participate in fundraising events, the development and promotion of a creative district, or the city’s community arts programs.
When working out of a studio at SPAACES, you will be surrounded by artists who are dedicated to the growth of their body of work, their career, and their creative time and space. You will be with artists who understand the ups and downs of being an artist, who are available for feedback, and who understand the importance of community. Working from a studio can lift restrictions you might feel when working from home, creating freedom and experimentation and clear delineation between your home or work life and your creative self.
Having a SPAACES studio provides artists with professional recognition, marketing, and exposure during open studio days and gallery exhibition openings. SPAACES gives studio tours to designers, collectors and donors. Promotional activities are undertaken through SPAACES marketing and among studio artists. At SPAACES we continue to grow, therefore, it is often possible to create your own studio size in a new warehouse unit. In addition to studios, each facility includes shared gallery walls to promote the work of studio artists.
SPAACES supports individuals who consistently create original work and pursue their practice as a means of livelihood, professional recognition, and contribution to their field. As the only organization in Sarasota offering affordable studio space free from commercial pressures, SPAACES is committed to fostering artistic experimentation and providing the uninterrupted time artists need to develop their work.
Art enthusiasts are individuals who create art, explore it through historical or contemporary interests, or seek to better understand the art world in both practice and theory. They are curious about new forms of artistic expression, actively engage with visual culture, and share a deep passion for the field of visual art in all its forms.
SPAACES believes art is for everyone. While we provide a forum for professional artists to succeed, we also welcome anyone with an interest in the arts—whether through practice or theory. Our community includes both artists and art appreciators who want to be part of a vibrant, creative environment. SPAACES is a place for art enthusiasts and professionals alike.
SPAACES mission is to advance contemporary art and professional artists, impact social change and enhance a vibrant arts community. SPAACES values inclusivity, equity, and the freedom to express identity.
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