Artists in AmFab complex plan Nov. 14 open house

Friday, 30 October 2009 20:23

Artists in the former American Fabrics factory will have an open studios event for the public Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 1069 Connecticut Ave., Building 4.

The artists and so-called “artrepreneurs” all work under one roof in the newly renovated industrial complex, now named the AmFab Art and Design Center. This includes painters, photographers, sculptors, ceramic artists, print makers, quilters, textile and jewelry designers, handbag manufacturers, clothing designers and interior designers.

Occupancy at the renovated loft building in the East End has quadrupled since Westrock Development LLC began renovating the complex earlier this year, with more than 20 studios now in operation.

Ed Rosenblatt, property manager for Westrock Development, said, “When we began developing the American Fabrics complex, a handful of artists were leasing space in one of the buildings. After meeting with them, it became apparent that there was a need for affordable loft space for artists in Bridgeport. We decided to renovate the building, and it is almost fully occupied.”

Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch, who recently toured the building, called the AmFab Art and Design Center “an important part of the city’s creative economy. This long-neglected factory building is a wonderful example of smart adaptive reuse, and will soon have a new life as a commercial property.”

The American Fabrics factory was built in the 1920s, specializing in the manufacture of linen, lace and knits. Factories back then were built with large windows to provide light and fresh air during the summer months, creating a perfect loft space for artists today.

During the open studios event, mberry will host a “flavor tripping” party in its studio and a small sampling table on each floor. Having been publicized by The New York Times, Washington Post and CNN, mberry tablets are freeze-dried miracle fruit berries freeze dried into tablet form.

Flavor tripping parties are where people gather over a spread of food and beverages to experience the Willy Wonka-like effect of the mberry in a social setting, according to mberry publicity material.

Also, many tenant artists will be selling their artwork. Admission is free, with ample off-street parking at the complex. For information visit the “AmFab Art + Design” fan page on Facebook.com, or call 203-451-5011.

Participating artists from Bridgeport are Steven Steele Cawman, Richard Killeaney, Emily Larned, Gus Moran and Denyse Schmidt.