Mar 08 2007
Mission
Mission Statement
PositiveSpace is an artists’ group whose goals are to:
• create a network of local visual and performing artists
• provide a forum for artists to meet and exchange information and resources
• create opportunities for local emerging and established artists
• enhance the quality of life by integrating art into the neighborhoods in which we live.
through a variety of programs, projects, events, and exhibitions.
History
PositiveSpace began gathering in November 2001 and became a 501C3 non-profit organization in June 2004. Founded by a group of Fishtown residents with diverse talents in the arts and a realization that they might not be the only neighborhood artists. The original eight members began meeting in various studios and putting the word out that all artists were welcome. In what seemed like no time, 8 turned into 25 and regular meetings were established using the Rocket Cat Cafe as home base. In the summer of 2007 summer monthly meetings were moved to the Positivespace lot on Frankford Ave where we could tend our newly formed garden and have Potluck Picnics. In February of 2007, winter monthly meetings were moved to the M-Room in the pursuit of later operating hours and the service of adult beverages.
Membership
PositiveSpace seeks to reach visual and performing artists who are emerging and established that are living and/or working in the Fishtown/East Kensington neighborhoods and the Philadelphia community at-large. Our organization is tied into the larger, on-going arts-based neighborhood revitalization spearheaded by our local community development corporation (NKCDC). Membership is free and open to all artists as well as art lovers. Income is derived from entrance fees from artists when they choose to participate in events and from grants and donations.
Activities
Programs: Networking Nights, Monthly Art Critiques, Fiscal Sponsorship Program
Projects: Community Sculpture Garden, Community Outreach Activities, PositiveSpace Website
Events/Exhibitions/ Craft Sales are determined each December and vary each year. Previous events include: Arts & Crap Sales, Fishtasticon, Picture Show, Elevated East vs. West on the Blue Line exhibition, Group POST exhibition, Standard Craft, Procrastinator’s Holiday Bazaar.
Governance
PositiveSpace is a volunteer organization run by dedicated Board of Directors and has an active membership pool of 25-35 artists. The Board meets quarterly and on as needed after monthly general membership meetings. All programs, projects and events are chaired by at least one Board member and two or three additional active members. At monthly networking meetings, members report their progress and seek additional volunteers. Typical active PositiveSpace members are working full- and part-time in arts-related jobs and have studios locally or in their homes.
The official registration and financial information of PositiveSpace may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.