Phase One: The Studios

Seeking Volunteers!
We are working diligently behind the scenes as a team of volunteers to bring this space to life, but a community space is only as strong as the community that supports it. We’re seeking volunteers to help with building, moving, picking up materials, and various administrative tasks. If you can offer any assistance, no matter how small, we would be incredibly grateful.

GOAL #1: Build Studios
Our first goal is to create studio spaces, because we believe that artists deserve a place to thrive. We’ve seen too many creative spaces in our area close or face uncertainty, and we’re determined to be part of the solution. While these 14 studios may not be grand, they will offer a dedicated space for work and storage, providing artists with a place away from home to focus on their work and creativity. To build these studios, we need your support to raise the necessary funds. Here’s a breakdown of the steps and costs:

Step 1: Lumber for Studs

• Estimated Cost: $400

• Purpose: This will allow us to construct the framework for the studios.

Step 2: Drywall and Additional Materials

• Drywall Cost: $800

• Additional Materials (screws, anchors, paint): $200

• Total for This Step: $1,000

• Purpose: Completing the walls and securing the space is crucial to make the studios functional.

Overall Cost to Build Studios

• Total Estimated Cost: $1,400

Current Fundraising Status:

• Funds Raised So Far: $145 from our first event

• Next Goal: Each event we hold brings us closer to reaching our $400 target for the lumber.

• Looking Ahead: Once the studs are in place, we’ll focus on raising the $1,000 needed for drywall and other materials.

How will Creators Forge benefit you?
Before diving too deep into the expenses, let me share how this space will benefit you. We’re creating a makerspace—a home for artists to work, connect, and thrive together. This space isn’t just about collaboration; it’s about finding your own creative haven. We envision a place where you can bring your work, put on your headphones, and enjoy the energy of being surrounded by fellow creatives. It’s also a place to relax, chat, have a coffee or beer, and engage in meaningful discussions about art, critique, and philosophy.Our goal is both simple and multifaceted. We all have our usual spots—home and work—but what’s often missing in today’s society is that third communal space, a place to gather outside of those familiar environments. Traditionally, such spaces have been offered by religious centers, hair salons, barbershops, bookstores, parks, and theaters. However, there’s a distinct lack of dedicated artist spaces—a place where you can be messy, creative, and feel at home.We’re a small group of artists who met in college, and since leaving that environment, we’ve noticed something missing in our lives. We want to bring that missing piece back to ourselves, to our community, and to future generations—the kids who will carry this creative spirit forward.Get Involved!
Now, here’s the challenge: we live in a world where money talks, and we know that artists often have to get creative with their finances—some of our founders included. But despite the odds, we believe in the power of the right community, and we know you’re out there. Just as you’re looking for a space like ours, we’re looking to connect with people like you. Together, we’re aiming to raise $80-100k to transform this space into a vibrant, thriving hub for artists. These funds will help us source quality tools, provide scholarships, offer teaching stipends, cover rent, hire an on-site part-time building manager, and take care of essential costs like insurance, software, and administration.It’s an ambitious goal, but not out of reach—especially when we look at how far we’ve already come. Once our studios are built, we’ll be launching a campaign with Patron City to help raise the funds, which could mean we may only need $40k from the community to make our vision a reality! While the numbers are still coming together, the best way you can support us right now is by joining our events. Your participation directly helps us get the studs, drywall, and hardware we need to build the space.Our call to action: Come hang out with us, get involved, and help us create that "third space"—a place where artists can thrive and creativity can flourish. We’re getting closer every day, and with your support, we’ll make it happen.