Philadelphia - March 23, 2009

Artful Execution

Arts on South Rent-Free Artist Co-Ops

You wanted to be a novelist; your parents said “ad copywriter.” You thought you’d be the next Basquiat; they said “graphic designer.”

Reclaim your dashed dreams on South Street (of all places). Hoping to inspire a renaissance, nonprofit group Arts on South is asking those of the creative persuasion to remake the hood.

Here’s the deal: Rather than let empty storefronts suck up space, they’re offering the buildings to artists to use as galleries. All you have to do is show a modicum of talent, pony up the cost of utilities (no rent), and set up shop.

Take the leap yourself or attend gallery openings to support the ballsy effort. So far, they’ve had seven takers — from ecoartists to new collective St. March Gallery.

None of whom are squatting; they’re in real estate.

Gallery applications at Eyes Gallery, 402 South Street (215-925-0193).

  Artsy