Congratulations to ArtsBuild for the Impressive New Arts Building

From Anne B. Pope, Executive Director —

Yesterday, ArtBuilds and the arts in Chattanooga saw an exciting new development with the grand opening of the Arts Building.

The building, previously known as the Dover Building, was generously donated to  ArtsBuild by the parent company of the Chattanooga Times Free Press, WEHCO, Inc. to further develop the Innovation District and to solidify the presence of the arts hub. More than 100 years old, the building had been empty since 2008, with roughly 15,000 square feet, three stories and an estimated worth of $240,000.

After an extensive renovation, with support from Lyndhurst Foundation and Benwood Foundation, the building now boasts artwork from local artists and collectors. Truly a community presence, the reception desk and back wall in the lobby area were designed and built by students at the Chattanooga Woodworking Academy. Metal brackets that hold signs and banners inside and outside of the building were designed and crafted by local artist Isaac Duncan.

In addition to ArtsBuild, the Southern Lit Alliance and SoundCorps will also be occupying office space in the top floor. Townsend Atelier is on the second floor, with a studio and art classrooms, as well as a arts supplies retail area. The bottom floor, which is partially below ground, is new office space for the Chattanooga Film Commission.

The investments that WEHCO and the city have made in the Arts Building is a testament to the importance of ArtsBuild to the arts and the importance of the arts to Chattanooga. Across the state we have seen the arts used as a vital component in community wide initiatives, spurring economic and community development, tourism and education. Chattanooga has certainly used the arts as a part of the city brand and as a catalyst for this type of activity. I applaud ArtsBuild and the development of the new Arts Building as a milestone in the journey to move communities forward through the arts.

The Arts Commission was truly honored to be a part in the opening and dedication of this beautiful facility and we congratulate ArtsBuild as it takes another step in cultivating the arts in Chattanooga and Tennessee.

Photos courtesy of ArtsBuild.