Connecting Over Creativity at ArtsHub Ortona

ArtsHub Ortona, Arts Habitat’s newest ArtsHub, opened its historic doors on September 3, 2024, welcoming its first yearly-intake of Project Studio artists. Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Rossdale, ArtsHub Ortona is now home to an exciting mix of professional visual artists, photographers, videographers, playwrights, and musicians. Each artist has licensed one of the 19 second-floor Project Studios, for a project-based term of up to one year. The Project Studios share a unique blend of architectural elements and layout, making each special to the artist that inhabits them.

“If I were to think of three dream studios, studio 230 at ArtsHub Ortona would be one of them. I love the history, aesthetic, and the feeling I get just by walking up to the building. It is a pleasure, an honor, and an absolute joy to be able to create in this space..” — Misty Ring, ArtsHub Ortona Project Studio Artist

In addition to the artists, the following 4 not-for-profit professional arts organizations licensed the main floor Offices:

• Alberta Media Production Industries Association
• The Arabic Club for Culture and Arts
• Punctuate! Theatre
• The Broad View International Film Festival

All applicants for both the Project Studios and Office spaces were required to commit to fostering a collaborative network that invites the broader community to visit, explore, and participate. With the first two months underway, a vibrant sense of camaraderie has begun to blossom among the artists and organizations.

“ArtsHub Ortona has been an inspiring space for my video and photography projects. The creative atmosphere and welcoming community make it easy to focus on my craft. It’s the perfect environment to collaborate and bring ideas to life.” — Eric Beliveau, ArtsHub Ortona Project Studio Artist

On October 18th, ArtsHub Ortona had its first multiple space rental for Edmonton Design Week’s Friday Night Party hosted by Media Architecture Design Edmonton (MADE). The event included tours of the building, catering, and beverages, with a live DJ performance that lit up the Solarium that night.

ArtsHub Ortona accepts project applications year-round to be added to its growing waitlist. While all Project Studios and Offices are currently filled, a variety of bookable spaces are available for performances, events, rehearsals, and meetings in ArtsHub Ortona. To apply or book an event space at ArtsHub Ortona, visit artshubortona.com. If you are looking specifically for studio space we have availability at ArtsHub Creative Studios located downtown on 97 Street and at ArtsHub McLuhan House located in the Highlands neighborhood.