NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Common Folk Artist Collective announced that it has been awarded $7,500 by a fund established by The Barr Foundation and managed by National Arts Strategies (NAS). 

 

This grant is designated for Creative Community Fellows New England alumni to implement strategic plans that foster creative growth and community change in New England.

 

With this funding, Common Folk will embark on a strategic planning process aimed at expanding its mission and addressing its recent growth beyond its previously occupied 1,000 square foot brick-and-mortar space. The collective's goal is to develop a dynamic Community Arts Center to better serve North Adams and the surrounding region, stated a press release.

 

As Common Folk departs its physical space on Holden Street, it will continue programming in various community spaces yet to be determined. 

 

"We are exploring new physical locations downtown, but nothing is finalized yet," said Jessica Sweeney, owner and creative director of Common Folk. "We are confident that North Adams would greatly benefit from a larger artist retail space, shared art studios, performance areas, and incubator spaces to support small businesses and independent artists."

 

The strategic planning process will involve extensive surveys of Common Folk members, the broader community, key stakeholders, and alumni. 

 

The survey results and the strategic plan will be released to the public later this fall. Those who can't attend the conversation may take the survey at any time by visiting https://commonfolk.org/strategic-plan.