TOArts Creators Commons


The TOArts Creators Commons is an open studio gallery concept designed to support working artists while inviting the public into the creative process. The space will house 8–10 local artists, each with a dedicated studio pod where they can create, display, and sell their work.

Visitors won’t just view finished pieces, they’ll step inside the artistic process, engage directly with creators, and discover the stories behind their work.


Our Vision

The Creators Commons is more than a studio, it’s a living, creative ecosystem.

  • A working studio environment open and accessible to the public
  • A destination for art discovery, education, and community engagement
  • A collaborative community where artists support one another’s growth

Professionally managed with oversight from TOArts, the space will host workshops, demonstrations, artist talks, and community events throughout the year, making it a vibrant hub for creativity and engagement.

The Goal is to assemble a diverse cohort of artists across disciplines who are excited to:

  • Maintain an active creative practice in a shared, public-facing space
  • Engage with visitors and the surrounding community
  • Contribute to a collaborative studio environment where artists serve as ambassadors of the space and help maintain a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and fellow artists.

Studio Space

Dedicated studio pod (approximately 10×10). Smaller or larger spaces may be considered depending on artist needs and available layout. Standard rent is $250/month for a 10×10 space ($2.50 per square foot), with pricing adjusted accordingly for different sizes.

Proposed Public Hours
Monday-Thursday: 12-4pm
Friday-Sunday: 12-9pm


Studio Terms & Participation Expectations

Shared Studio Participation

As part of maintaining a welcoming shared studio environment, artists contribute 2–4 hours per week supporting open studio hours. Activities may include:

  • Greeting visitors and serving as ambassadors for Creators Commons
  • Light sales support while visitors explore the space
  • Event assistance during community programs
  • Helping maintain the shared studio environments

Community Engagement

Participation in programming such as workshops, demonstrations, artist talks, or collaborative events. Artists who lead workshops or ticketed programs may be compensated through TOArts programming or may independently organize and charge participants for their events.

Creators Commons is not a traditional private studio. Artists should be comfortable creating in a visible environment and interacting with visitors during public hours.

Who This Opportunity Is For

Creators Commons may be a strong fit for artists who:

  • Are actively producing work and seeking consistent studio access
  • Value community, collaboration, and shared stewardship of a creative space
  • Are interested in public-facing creation and educational engagement
  • Want to grow their visibility, sales, and professional network locally
  • Are excited to help shape a new creative space from the ground up

Artists from a wide range of disciplines and career stages are encouraged to apply.


Application and Selection Process

This application supports a pilot and market validation phase for Creators Commons. TOArts is seeking to confirm artist interest and operational feasibility by securing commitments from artists who are prepared to participate under the proposed structure and terms.

  • Applications will be reviewed by TOArts staff and project advisors
  • Selection will prioritize artistic quality, diversity of disciplines, space compatibility, and community alignment
  • Selected applicants may be invited to a follow-up conversation before final commitments are confirmed

Submitting an application does not guarantee placement. Final participation is contingent on overall project feasibility and alignment across the artist cohort.

Application Deadline: Friday, May 8, 2026

TOArts is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable creative community. We strongly encourage applications from artists of all backgrounds, identities, and career stages.


For any inquiries, reach out to Casey Comstock-Mills at casey@toarts.org