An Elgin art studio can now consolidate into one building thanks to an Illinois grant.
For over a decade, Side Street Studio Arts has simultaneously operated out of several spaces. The $200,000 Tourism Attractions Grant, from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, will help the studio update a historic downtown building and put everything under one roof. The new location at 62 S. Grove Ave., has been vacant for two decades.
Erin Rehberg is one of the executive directors and founders of the studio. She said the studio operates out of several different spaces now.
“We started in one storefront gallery,” she said, “many years ago now, over 12 years ago now, and kept expanding, kept needing more space. And so, we have space above that. We have space behind that. And for a bunch of years, we had space across the alley.”
She said at the beginning of this year, they started consolidating in preparation for the bigger move.
Rehberg said the location will also be more accessible.
“And this new space is going to allow us so much more wall space,” she said, “so much more tech capability for new technologies and integrating different things, like artists being able to tell you the stories about their work, when you're looking at it.
The funds were secured by Elgin State Senator Cristina Castro. Castro stated in a press release that the studio is changing how art and inclusivity can enhance Elgin’s downtown.
“By investing in creative programming, enhanced venues and arts organizations,” Castro said, “we’re opening the doors to more exhibits and performances that will sustain Elgin’s economic and cultural strengths now and into the future.”
The grant was created to increase the state’s tourism economy. Eleven organizations across the state received a part of the $1.6 million to help increase tourism by enhancing local attractions.
Rehberg said the Elgin project will start this year and is estimated to be complete by the end of 2026.
