The Vacancy Problem Artists Can Help Solve

Vacant commercial space can drag down a street, but Evan Snow sees something else: a chance to make room for local artists, small businesses, and community life. As co-founder of Zero Empty Spaces, Snow helps transform empty properties into affordable artist studios and cultural hubs. He explains why closed doors do not help property owners, downtowns, or neighborhoods, and why a temporary use can still give artists a lasting foothold outside the home studio. The model works because it keeps the first step small, giving artists affordable space while helping property owners show what a vacant storefront could become. Evan will also be speaking at the Civic Leader Summit in Pensacola, Florida later this year in October.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

• Evan Snow (LinkedIn)
• Zero Empty Spaces (Site)
• Local Recommendations:‍
  • Yellow Green Farmer’s Market
  • Bike Trail
  • Krakatao Indonesian food
• Tiffany Owens Reed (Instagram)
• Do you know someone who would make for a great Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here!

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you! Join fellow members discussing this episode in The Commons.