Artists plan to set up studios in Batavia

Local artists are working to get a space to create and share artwork in Batavia.

"It's been a dream for years," said local artist Joseph Gagnepain, who is helping to spearhead the Water Street Studios project.

With 20 to 30 Fox Valley-area artists interested, the co-op would set up shop in the old First Street Playhouse building at First and Water streets.

The area would be separated into 3-D art space, 2-D art space and a publicly accessible space for a gallery and retail.

The plans are for it to eventually host public workshops in several classrooms and maybe even restaurants.

Getting so many artists in one place will not only create a sense of community, but it will also foster creativity, Gagnepain said.

"They can use each other as a resource," he said. "I really see it being energized and fun."

The group, called the Batavia Arts Center Association, is working on a contract with Batavia Enterprises for the building at 160 S. Water St. and getting the city permits needed to start working.

Those interested include sculptors, painters, woodworkers, cartoonists, and even furniture makers and landscape architects.

The first artists could move in as early as next month, with a goal of a public gallery space being open by September.

Any artists who are interested can attend a meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Batavia Library, 10 S. Batavia Ave., or call Gagnepain at (630) 232œ7585.