In its cultural arts master plan, the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Authority (CRA) writes: “Something wonderful is about to happen.”
The something they had in mind – a cultural arts district and destination in a formerly underused area of east Atlantic Avenue — kicked off its soft opening tonight with ArtHall, a monthly art exhibit, and a street party with live music by Daydreamer and Shod of Delray Beach.
The former historic Bailey Hotel, built in 1932, and now Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA), located at 41 N.E. First St., down the street from the First Baptist Church, has just undergone a $1.2 million renovation and looks brand-spanking-new.
On two floors, the facility offers three exhibition spaces (1,200 sq. ft. each), eight visual arts studios, space for studios, classes, lectures, concerts and films, digital arts and multi-purpose space.
“We want this venue to be a beacon for artists in Pompano Beach,” said Drew Tucker, director of education and community outreach at the Arts Garage in Delray Beach, which is spearheading this revival under the auspices of its Creative City Collaborative.
“Like a lighthouse, we want to shine our light in the community and attract artists of all kinds,” he says.
The complex will include an artist-in-residency program, educational courses, lectures, studio memberships, demonstrations, community outreach, workshops and summer camp for children.
One of their primary goals is to bring an international community of artists to the area and create opportunities for engagement and cross-cultural exchange.
Currently on display are paintings by Miami urban artists Ivan J. Roque, Diana Contreras and James Brutus, an emerging artist who works with inks, oils and acrylics.
Alyona Ushe, executive director of the Creative City Collaborative, has brought in Alan Stewart as art director and Mike Carr, formerly senior director of programming at the Broward Center of the Performing Arts, as BaCA’s programming director.
Caroline Breder-Watts, formerly of WXEL’s South Florida Artsview and now executive director of Arts Radio Network, will host a film series each Friday evening starting in May and running through July with cocktails, film and conversation.
A visibly enthused Ushe said she is thrilled to be a part of BaCA.
“This is the first seed for what will become a 24/7 hub of artistic energy and inspiration,” Ushe said. “The Pompano Beach CRA had an amazing vision for their downtown area and has done an amazing job with the space. I applaud their work and foresight, especially CRA co-executive directors, Chris Brown and Kim Briesmeister.
“In a year, you won’t recognize this space,” Ushe said.
A new restaurant from the owners of 32 East in Delray Beach is moving in and Ushe envisions a coffee shop at BaCA and an atmosphere in which people can drop in and hang around.
Attendees Christina Wood of Delray Beach and Laura and Steve Michaels, visiting from Boca Raton, were sitting outside at a café table people-watching, enjoying the music and sampling the items from the food trucks.
“I’m excited for the community,” says Wood, a freelance writer. “BaCA will have a dynamic and positive effect on the neighborhood.” As a devotee of the Arts Garage, Wood was eager to come and see the space and explore what it has to offer, including art classes.
Local residents Mary Ellen Badugone and Tom McMahon strolled over from their home and were enthusiastic about the new addition to their neighborhood.
“It’s much needed,” says McMahon. “This area was devoid of all arts and culture. We’re excited about all the new and positive changes coming to downtown Pompano. It’s just what we need.”
Stay tuned for the formal opening next month.
For more information call 561-450-6357, or visit BaCAPompano.org.