Visual Artist Studios in Philadelphia: A Case Study of Three Studio Facilities

Abstract

While studio space is essential to an artist’s practice, the quality and availability of this space varies. Inspired by difficulties in finding affordable and convenient space, I set out to better understand what it takes to rent and manage independent studio spaces. Through researching existing visual art studios in Philadelphia, I aimed to find out what makes a studio space successful and determined common needs and challenges of both tenants and management staff running these facilities. Focusing on three studio facilities in Philadelphia – Bok, Crane Arts, and MaKen Studios – I conducted a multiple case study to explore how these facilities are meeting visual artist tenants’ needs, and what a successful independent studio space may look like. Through interviews with management staff and visual artist tenants, as well as a tenant survey, I explored multiple perspectives to better understand common challenges and benefits of these spaces. Most tenants were generally satisfied with their studio situations. However, common tenant needs were identified. The most prominent was the desire for low and stable rent, as well as the need for both private workspace and a space to conduct additional business beyond art making. Most management staffs’ concerns related to the ability to meet tenants’ individual needs, including outfitting spaces and providing appropriate utilities. While some management is more involved than others, the relationships between the staff and tenants are generally positive. Additionally, some external environmental and economic factors affect both management and tenants. However, additional research on neighborhood changes in Philadelphia and the impact of artists on cities needs to be explored to further address this.M.S., Arts Administration -- Drexel University, 201