Local Printmaking Studio Seeks Donations for Larger Space in West Philly
The Soapbox, a printmaking shop catering to local artists, has kicked off a crowdfunding campaign to support its move to a larger space in West Philadelphia. The studio, currently nestled at 47th Street and Kingsessing Avenue, aims to raise $50,000 to settle into its new location at 4542 Baltimore Avenue this spring.
The new facility promises to be an expansive upgrade from the current spot, boasting approximately 7,000 square feet of space that is more than double its predecessor. This increased size will not only provide ample room for artists to work but also improve accessibility for members who pay monthly fees for access to a range of equipment, including letterpress, risograph, book press, etching press, computer lab, and screen printing facilities.
The new location will boast two entrances that meet the Americans with Disabilities Act standards, marking a significant improvement over the current facility's single entrance. Additionally, its street-level space and garage door that opens directly onto the sidewalk will enhance visibility for passersby.
In addition to providing access to expensive tools, The Soapbox maintains an extensive library of over 3,500 zines and artist books. It also offers workshops and private lessons, further solidifying its role as a community hub in West Philadelphia.
The nonprofit organization has been at its current location for the past seven years, making this move a significant development for the studio. A similar effort was made by the West Philly Tool Library last fall, which successfully relocated to 1223 S. Harmony St. after its lease expired.
As of Monday afternoon, The Soapbox's crowdfunding campaign had raised just over $1,000, leaving it still to secure the necessary funds to make the move a reality.
The Soapbox, a printmaking shop catering to local artists, has kicked off a crowdfunding campaign to support its move to a larger space in West Philadelphia. The studio, currently nestled at 47th Street and Kingsessing Avenue, aims to raise $50,000 to settle into its new location at 4542 Baltimore Avenue this spring.
The new facility promises to be an expansive upgrade from the current spot, boasting approximately 7,000 square feet of space that is more than double its predecessor. This increased size will not only provide ample room for artists to work but also improve accessibility for members who pay monthly fees for access to a range of equipment, including letterpress, risograph, book press, etching press, computer lab, and screen printing facilities.
The new location will boast two entrances that meet the Americans with Disabilities Act standards, marking a significant improvement over the current facility's single entrance. Additionally, its street-level space and garage door that opens directly onto the sidewalk will enhance visibility for passersby.
In addition to providing access to expensive tools, The Soapbox maintains an extensive library of over 3,500 zines and artist books. It also offers workshops and private lessons, further solidifying its role as a community hub in West Philadelphia.
The nonprofit organization has been at its current location for the past seven years, making this move a significant development for the studio. A similar effort was made by the West Philly Tool Library last fall, which successfully relocated to 1223 S. Harmony St. after its lease expired.
As of Monday afternoon, The Soapbox's crowdfunding campaign had raised just over $1,000, leaving it still to secure the necessary funds to make the move a reality.
theyre trying 2 raise 50k and its only been 1000 already 
thats like 50k/1000 = 500 
every minute counts fam but at least they got a new spot 
w/ twice the space & more accessible 
plus all that fancy equipment 
& a library of 3500 zines 
its gonna be lit in west philly 
... don't get me wrong, more space is cool and all, but what's next? are they gonna be charging members an arm and a leg to use the fancy new equipment? 
... and 3,500 zines in their library? that's just a bunch of old books collecting dust... I mean, I guess it's good for artists to have access to resources, but come on, $1k raised so far? 
, another artsy space needs some $$ 
. This one's got all the bells and whistles tho... 7k sq ft of room is pretty sweet 
. Can't say I'd wanna visit West Philly on a typical day though, traffic is a nightmare 
This is such a great news for West Philly! I mean, we already have so many amazing art spaces and community centers, but this one takes it to the next level. The Soapbox has been a hub for local artists and makers for years, and now they get to spread their wings (or should I say, expand their studio?) 
It's going to be a game-changer for our neighborhood. Let's get behind this campaign and help The Soapbox make their new space a reality! 
. The fact that they're offering workshops and private lessons is also super cool – can't wait to check out their new facilities when they open up this spring 
. $50k might seem like a lot, but I'm sure it'll be worth it for the future of arts in Philly 
. Let's get behind this campaign and support our own artists