LOOP Youngstown dedicates new Arts + Culture Center to local artists

LOOP Youngstown dedicated a new Arts & Culture Center to local artists on Sunday afternoon at their new building on Mahoning Avenue.

The building was created as a space for local artists to work and collaborate with each other. It currently holds 32 art studios used by 28 people.

“They'll be doing all kinds of works from painting, photography, ceramics, we have somebody who is weaving rugs on a loom,†said Karen Schubert, Chair of the Board of Directors.

LOOP Youngstown is a non-profit organization dedicated to expanding arts and culture in the Mahoning Valley.

“What we wanted to do was create a place where artists could collaborate, where they could teach classes,s and where we can have other kinds of performances and gallery shows,†Schubert said.

Willem Schreiber, a 3D artist, is a member of the fellowship cohort and tells 21 News that he believes art improves when artists collaborate with one another.

“When you're around peers and colleagues, all of a sudden, you're coming up with ideas that you never could've on your own,†he said.

The group purchased the building in March after it previously served as a Comfort Keepers facility for at-home senior care.

Dave Mirkin, President of Mirkin & Associates, previously owned the building and says his grandfather had built the center in 1946 as an indoor used car lot.

“I know that my grandfather would be so proud to have his work, his building, go to such a deserving agency that helps so many people, promotes the arts in Youngstown,†he said.

The center officially opens in August, according to Schubert.