Artist communities are full of positive and creative energy because people feel free to live authentically in these safe environments, where being unique is encouraged. Artists document the past and predict the future. They are the trail blazers and the trendsetters – the unrecognized leaders. They build amazing communities full of creative energy – a safe haven for artists to develop. These leaders unintentionally build the “hottest “ neighborhoods just being themselves and following their dreams.
Unfortunately, their coolness factor attracts the followers who want to live in these newly trendy areas. Ultimately, this causes real estate appreciation and the artists are forced to move out and into other uninhabited areas until history repeats… This is a real problem in NYC right now because artists have run out of new places to move. So many of my friends are moving OUT of the city because their quality of life has been negatively affected by rising rent prices. I have also noticed that the number of artists moving to NYC after graduating art school has dwindled. The artists’ dream of moving to NYC for a few years to immerse themselves in the culture is feigning. Many cities such as Detroit and Philadelphia now have artist incentive programs to attract emerging artists. Personally I think these programs are great and I encourage every city to develop programs that enable our youth to follow their purpose. However, can you imagine New York City without artists leading the trends and movement?
With increased rent, artists find themselves stretched to cover the costs. More time working for a paycheck means less time creating. Not being able to make ends meet, these creatives are priced out and it is all the more evident nowadays in New York City. What once was a breeding ground for the arts, with galleries and lofts littered, one can understand why the city was considered one of, if not THE art center of the world. Focusing on the rent every month most certainly takes away from imagination and inspiration. Just the other day Jason Potvin, one of the artists we showcased at our Scandinavian Event last December, moved to France to pursue his craft.
I love New York artists and am an avid collector and follower of the arts. I also love to people watch and hanging out in downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn is the best place to see diversity and freedom of expression. Why watch TV when you can live real life – the people of NYC are unbelievably inspiring and they create the magical energy that makes our city unique. For this reason I am dedicated to creating awareness around this issue and to helping people find ways to support our artists.
I encourage you all to pause before purchase and think about who is on the receiving end. When we know the story behind companies and we know exactly where the money goes, we can feel good about our purchases. I like to support my local community, artists, families and businesses. I also spend time finding small businesses who support fair trade, artisans and who practice sustainable manufacturing. It isn’t hard to be a conscious consumer – it just takes practice. I am a big believer that informed decision brings about positive change. If we support the people who make our city great, they will stick around.
For a great non-profit dedicated to providing affordable living and working space for artists and art organizations in New York City, visit Westbeth for more information.
~ Miss Kiss ~
