Building and Construction
When completed the ArtExchange will include 15,000 square feet of artist studios, classrooms and workshop areas.
The design will consist of:
- 15 resident artist studios
- 1,400 square feet of classroom/multipurpose space
- A "hot shop" for glass blowing, ceramics and other industrial arts
- An exhibit gallery
- An inviting courtyard for Programs and Special Events
- Retail and administrative space
The ArtExchange will bring new life to a historic building that has evolved over its nearly 85 years. Previously home to a community market, a car dealership and the popular Acres of Books, the façade of this distinct 1920’s era building has been incorporated into the design of the ArtExchange.
In 1990, the building received a historic designation as “an intact and excellent example of ‘streamline moderne’ architecture” in the popular style used after the 1933 earthquake that destroyed a number of buildings in Long Beach.
